The wholesale picture frames producer and provider has seen its sales rise 25 percent in this year’s first quarter over last year’s first quarter as the economy improves.
“The way it is right now, if you’re showing a plus, you’re doing something right,” George Wacks said in a recent interview at the company’s shop at 5733 Webster St.
“The more often a semi(-truck) shows up back here, the better the economy is,” his wife, Cheryl, agreed.
Continental stocks more than 600 examples of moldings — the wood or other material used to create frames for portraits, paintings, photographs, posters or other artwork. The Wacks family bought the business two years ago, assuming responsibility as a wholesale supplier to frame shops, artists, photographers, schools and others in the area and beyond. They have received inquiries from as far away as Germany.
The Wackses say they’re the area’s only wholesale supplier for frame moldings. Many of their customers are happy to have them so close.
“Any time I need anything, they are right on it,” said Rachelle O’Donnell, owner of Centerville’s Lamplighter Frames. “I usually get same-day (or) next-day delivery.”
“They almost never have to back-order anything for me,” said Sherril Marlow, owner of Beavercreek’s Stitching Cottage. “They’re just wonderful.”
The frames business isn’t easy, and the firm’s revenue boost from $60,000 in 2008 to $93,000 last year has been a welcome one. The owners attribute the growth to overall economic improvement and maintaining good relationships with an array of customers.
Though one can find artwork in nearly any physician’s office, bank lobby or living room, spending on art supplies is often one of the first expenses halted in down times and one of the last expenses resumed when the economy picks up, say those in the business.
“It’s one of the last things that gets on the plate,” O’Donnell said.
Still, the Wackses are optimistic, and one reason why is the breadth of the products they offer. Prices range from 50 cents a foot to $22 a foot or higher.
“Everything about our business is custom,” Cheryl Wacks said.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2390 or tgnau@DaytonDailyNews.com.
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