Grand Rapids, Michigan - In May, West Michigan's largest independent appliance and electronics retailer opened a new distribution and service center in Coopersville. Since Bekins opened its second store location in Grand Rapids in 2012, the Grand Haven-based home appliance and electronics integrator has experienced a 60% increase in sales, more than doubling its volume since 2010. Bekins’ workforce has grown from 42 employees in 2010 to 88 today, with 15 additional positions currently open.

The new 36,000 square foot facility centralizes service and installation between Bekins’ Grand Rapids and Grand Haven stores. It also provides space for work, collaboration, and training for Bekins’ growing technical workforce. “We have an incredible brain trust of talented programmers, designers, project managers, repair technicians, installers, support people and directors who can now work out of a facility that’s as as high caliber as they are,” commented owner Scott Bekins. “We now have a home base for our greatest resource: our people.”

Efficiency was a key goal for the facility, emphasized Mr. Bekins. “Our techs can come in, get what they need, and get out on the road in under 15 minutes.” In an industry with slim profit margins, that efficiency is what enables Bekins to deliver the best service while keeping costs competitive, Bekins explained.

“This facility has also allowed us to become one of the greenest appliance companies in the industry,” Bekins continued. “We recycle up to 90% of the packing material, and 100% of the old appliances that come in.” Recycled materials include cardboard, cores, plastic film and styrofoam. In May, Bekins recycled over 13,500 pounds of waste, and 20 gaylords of styrofoam. Appliance Installation Director Neil Dwyer commented, “We don’t know of anyone else in the industry who’s recycling at this level.”

Bekins is planning to open third store in the Grand Rapids area in fall of 2015. The new store, which will focus exclusively on electronics, will revive a brand that’s well known to West Michigan, according to Mr. Bekins.

About the Company

Celebrating 40 years in business this year, Bekins is West Michigan's largest independent appliance and electronics retailer. A family owned and operated business since 1975, Bekins consistently offers customers the best products, and the best value. Bekins has been rated Michigan’s #1 Electronics Integrator by CEPro for the past four years and has showrooms located in Grand Rapids and Grand Haven. Learn more about Bekins’ CEDIA certifications, product brands and more at bekins.us.