DIY – A trend that won’t end

PAID PROMOTION

The Do-It-Yourself movement has been around for many years, but it exploded during the pandemic. People were stuck in their houses for months staring at the same furniture, flooring, and appliances.

At the same time, stimulus checks were arriving in their mailboxes. It should be no surprise that what came next was a wave of DIY home improvements. Since people were forced to stay in their homes, the least they could do was to make them look new, exciting, and fresh. 

While many businesses suffered during the pandemic, Jim Molidor, CEO of Warehouse Bargains, says their sales grew.

“Our business model was perfect for this type of event.” Molidor said. “All our items were already on the floor in our stores. We were not shut down by the supply chain issues that hammered other businesses. And our discounted prices allowed customers to purchase everything they needed for their projects.” 

Warehouse Bargains saw sales increase in two major categories: major renovations or simple interior refreshes. 

Customers purchased flooring, countertops, cabinets, tubs, sinks, doors, and windows. Others just wanted to refresh their interiors, so they purchased new furniture, dining room sets, appliances and rugs. 

These projects gave people a chance to do something productive and have fun during the dark days of the pandemic.

You would think that now that the pandemic is over the DIY trend would diminish. However, that has not been the case. With high inflation, families’ costs continue to rise. People are focusing their attention on bettering their existing environments and saving money by doing the labor themselves. Molidor recalls one couple he met in the Jacksonville location. 

“They drove 4 hours from southern Missouri to get to us. When she walked in, she smiled like it was Christmas morning.” Molidor said. “They bought $12,000 worth of items for a home remodel but only paid $8,000. They were happy campers as they drove away.” 

Molidor hypothesizes that the confidence that people gained during the pandemic along with the proliferation of “how-to” videos on social media platforms like YouTube has made the DIY movement something that is here to stay. 

“Working from home is more prevalent, “explained Molidor. “The home office is now a real thing, not just a concept. People look at the value of their homes in a whole new light.” 

Are you late in jumping on this bandwagon? Do you feel left out? Can you too be a DIYer? 

Molidor says “Absolutely!” Molidor explained. “Don’t be afraid. There are plenty of sources of reference material and tutorials. Our staff is ready to help answer questions about all types of products you will need.” 

With locations in Quincy, Jacksonville, Burlington, Galesburg, Muscatine or Ottawa, Molidor is confident Warehouse Bargains is a great place to start.

“Come to us first. We have what you need and are ready to assist. You will never regret investing in your own home.”