Partners in Progress 2020 | Page 44

MARKS FLOORS OWNER: ‘WE’VE BEEN BLESSED’ S ince 2014, Marks Floor Covering owner Christian Marks has steadily watched his company grow into a successful local business that keeps evolving. Marks is a Richmond County native who has collected more than 40 years of experience in floor covering, the majority of which was spent installing as a teenager under his father. He says he was persuaded to try the sales side of the business when the historic R.W. Goodman Co. decided to close shop. Marks recalls the R.W. Goodman customers’ requests to reopen the store under his name. After renting out the downtown space where the old building stood for decades, in 2015, Marks decided to move his new business to its current location on Broad Avenue, nearly a year later, because of spatial limitations. “We have more traffic than what we did when we were up there,” admits Marks regarding the new building. “But between advertisement and word of mouth, is mostly how our business has grown.” In the early going, almost all of the customers came from residential prospects. Within the last several years, Marks says the commercial contracts have grown rapidly and he now estimates they make up about 40 percent of the business. The commercial customers have allowed for a wider net as Marks Floor Covering now serves various counties in North and South Carolina including local neighbors Anson, Scotland and Cheraw. Another aspect that has catapulted sales as of late has been the popularity of Luxury Vinyl Planks. The specialized floors have become a hot item mainly because of their ability to repel water and withstand traction from pets. “I just want to thank everyone that’s been a part of us ... and I appreciate everything they let us do for them,” said Marks. As of now, the company has four employees and enlists the assistance of three subcontractors. MARKS FLOOR “We’ve been blessed. I couldn’t ask for better crews than what we’ve got. I’m proud of my guys,” said Marks. He added that his roots and the company’s local ties has helped tremendously, and that he will always rely on county residents. if you visit COVERING 503 E. Broad Ave. 910) 434-8695. Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. [email protected] CARPET * HARDWOOD * SHEET VINYL * LVT * CEREMIC * REMNANTS Christian Marks 503 E. Broad Ave. Rockingham, NC Ph: 910-434-8695 SaleS & InStallatIon 44 • PROGRESS 2020 Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.