Scott and Candi Bradford’s house is filled with furniture they purchased over the years from Miles Furniture Showroom and Carpet Warehouse on Main Street. But they never thought they would some day own the store.
The Bradfords bought the business on Oct. 7 from Mary Miles. Mary owned and operated the business along with her husband, Dennis Miles, who founded the store more than 30 years ago. Dennis died in January.
When Mary Miles approached the Bradfords about buying the business, Candi said they pondered it for a while and researched the economics and profitability of owning the shop.
“And then we decided to take this enormous step,” Bradford said. “And try to make Dennis and Mary proud.”
Scott Bradford continues to work as the sewer and water operator for the borough and Candi quit her job at Olerud’s Market Center to work at the new business. The Bradfords continue to carry much of the same furniture, appliances, electronics and flooring items Mary Miles did. But they are expanding and carrying New Yankee Candles and a selection of hobbies and toys. Scott Bradford operated a hobby shop out of the family’s home for 16 years and has now moved that stock to the store.
Candi said electronics and flooring seem to be the store’s biggest sellers at this time. And the store just completed work with Chilkoot Estates, providing appliances and flooring for the new housing development.
Candi said she and Scott are confident that the store will continue to be a success even during lackluster economic times; she said in looking over Miles’ books from over the years, the profits from the store never wavered and remained steady. The Bradfords plan on continuing the trend, keeping prices competitive and shopping convenient.
“We want people to come here first,” Candi said.
In a nod to their predecessors, there are no plans to change the name. “We’re doing that in honor of Dennis,” Candi said.