Sometimes, retailers are begun by couples — and sometimes, they’re even named after them.
In Las Vegas, Mr. Pool and Mrs. Patio opened in 1972. The business offered above-ground pools and high-end patio furniture.
The business has transitioned out of selling pools and now concentrates on high-end patio furniture and outdoor accessories, according to Robin Wright, who, along with her niece Ashlee Dorn, represent the second and third generations in the closely held family business.
The real Mr. Pool is now 90 and still comes to work several days a week, while the real Mrs. Patio passed away 10 years ago from Alzheimer’s.
These days, Wright and Dorn oversee inventory, marketing, customer service and everything else that goes into running a three-location patio retailer in a place where the outdoor season can run almost year-round.
When asked what will be most important this year, Wright says three things: Sales. Sales. Sales.
“We are optimistic, being a specialty patio store for over 50 years,” she says.
If there is a concern, it’s that the store is still dealing with manufacturers’ lead times and inventory overload. To build enthusiasm, the store is getting in new product for the 2024 season. And to get the goods out the door, the store relies on the experience that comes with longtime sales associates.
“There’s no need for new sales tactics at Mrs. Patio,” says Wright. “Our family and crew that has been with us for many, many years have been very successful, all working together, to boost sales.”
To choose inventory, Mrs. Patio targets products made in the U.S. that follow current design trends and that can withstand the harsh desert in Nevada. Products carried in the store also must carry a warranty that the manufacturer will stand behind — and must have effective customer service. And to market what they have, the store relies on local TV commercials.
“We have been in business long enough to see clients buy lesser quality and return to us in a couple of years,” says Wright. “We never give them an ‘I told you so’; we just welcome them back.”
Wright isn’t worried about full-line furniture stores or online retailers making inroads into the specialty patio space.
“Competition is always good,” she said. “Educated buyers will do their research and hopefully buy quality products from us. We don’t compete with online retailers.”
Any advice for struggling casual retailers?
“Be positive,” said Wright. “That’s what we have been doing for the past three years. It will turn around soon enough.”
