Sprouting from home-grown roots in Kenora, Dufresne Furniture’s success is living proof that big things can come from small towns. Through determination, hard work, and the loyalty of their community, Dufresne Furniture is proud to be celebrating their 25th year of exceptional service in Kenora.
It all began in 1986 when the closure of Eaton’s store sparked an opportunity for Doug Dufresne to start a new business venture. Recognizing that Kenora was in need of a quality furniture retailer, he and his wife Eva purchased a 5,000 square foot complex. The store officially opened in 1986, and as it grew, so did the involvement from fellow business savvy members of the Dufresne family tree. Doug remains President of the company with Eva as Secretary Treasurer, while their sons Mark, Michael, and Shaun, took on roles as CEO, Director of Stores, and Director of Purchasing. From 1993 to 2009, the business reached national success with 11 locations spanning all the way from Brandon to Ottawa (ultimately employing more than 400 people).
Dufresne Furniture’s success as a winning corporate endeavor is attributed to the hard work of the Dufresne family; a value that has been recognized with a number of prestigious awards. In 2005 it won the Canadian Home Furnishings Retailer of the Year Award. Even during some of the most competitive market conditions, the business went on to be awarded Canada’s highest accolade for business performance as one of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies for twelve consecutive years. This success would eventually gain them membership in the Platinum Club which recognizes the exceptional standards, leadership, and business practices of outstanding companies.
The Dufresne family attributes their success entirely to the loyalty and support of their customers, acknowledging that their business would not be where it is today without the strong communities that encouraged them. This is why Dufresne Furniture continuously strives to create A Better Experience for each and every customer; a passion that resulted in the creation of a 17,000 square foot modern store on Railway Street in Kenora, allowing them to serve their loyal customers more effectively. It is their strong belief that customers and staff are to be treated as members and close friends of the Dufresne family. Dufresne Furniture’s down-to-earth focus on business has allowed them to maintain loyal customers throughout all of their locations. As part of their culture, all of their employees must bring forth energy, trustworthiness, maintain a focus on customers, and be respectful towards all individuals.
At the opening of Kenora’s new modernized Dufresne store in 2003, Doug Dufresne said, “We had our start here in Kenora and we want to give back to the community.” It is with this mission that Dufresne Furniture grew towards their next goal and reached out to those in the community who are in need. Crediting their success to the loyalty of their customers, and enriched by their community experiences, Dufresne Furniture has played a pivotal role in the community through the creation of the Dufresne Foundation, consisting of a committee of volunteers in pursuit of giving back. By doing so, they have reliably and consistently supported organizations such as: Habitat for Humanity, Lake of the Woods District Hospital, Children’s Hospital Book Market, and United Way; all which aim to enhance the lives of children, families, and local communities.
If the first 25 years are any indication you can bet the Dufresne family team won’t be resting on their laurels… maybe on a posturepedic mattress though.
Story by Chantel Pereira.
