As Dana Williams likes to say, they do a lot more than sell sofas and mattresses at Dufresne Furniture & Appliances in Portage la Prairie.
“We don’t just sell furniture,” she explains. “We help families make memories around the kitchen table, give them a healthy night’s sleep and create a safe refuge where they can relax and unwind from the daily grind.”
Williams, the Store Principal at Dufresne’s Portage location, adds that the core purpose at the company is to “make life better,” not only for customers but also for store staff and the communities they live in. And as a locally-operated business, Dufresne can make a meaningful impact in the city and surrounding area.
“It’s great to be locally operated, because it brings us closer to our community,” she says. “It allows us to partner with other local businesses and support them any way we can.”
As just one example, the store recently partnered with the Portage Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) in getting the word out about pets needing adoption.
“We had a BBQ fundraiser with them to help with the supplies they need to look after the many animals in their care,” says Williams. “We even had a few animals at the BBQ for people to meet. It was a lot of fun.”
Current sales
Of course, an important way for Dufresne to connect with its customers is by offering products at accessible price points. To that end, the store is currently holding its Biggest Sales Event of the Season.
When purchasing a matching loveseat at regular price, customers can receive a sofa at 40% off. They can also expect savings of up to 25% on all furniture, up to 40% on mattresses and up to 15% on kitchen appliances. The store also offers free local delivery on laundry pairs. On Saturday, September 13, it’s also offering half-price local delivery on furniture and mattresses.
Finally, there’s the Door Crashers event. From Friday, September 12 to Monday, September 15, outlet items will be priced at 10% off.
“We are guest-centric,” says Williams. “Our guests are the reason we’re able to continue developing as an organization. Their business is what allows us to innovate and introduce exciting products and programs to our communities.”
Local salespeople
Facilitating Dufresne’s guest-centric approach to sales is a team of local salespeople, all trained to sell furniture, appliances and mattresses. As Sleep Experts, they use a sleep assessment tool that maps the body’s pressure points and then recommends the mattress that will provide the best sleep possible.
Each Dufresne team member also brings unique skills and expertise to their role at the store.
Take Monica. She specializes in bedding and custom furniture, and as the Sales Manager she loves curating appliances packages tailored to home or renovation needs. Komal, meanwhile, is a Specialized Sales Associate with expertise in appliances.
Jazmine, another Specialized Sales Associate, has all-around knowledge of appliances, bedding and furniture. And Josh, a Warehouse Specialist, manages all the heavy lifting and is Dufresne’s backbone when it comes to logistics.
“Our salespeople are great listeners,” says Williams. “They listen to our guests’ needs and recommend the best products to suit those needs. They also ask the right questions to learn the needs and wants of our guests.”
It all comes back to Dufresne’s commitment to being more than just a furniture store.
“We’re your neighbours, your team and your trusted resource,” says Williams. “Stop by and meet us in person!”
Dufresne Furniture & Appliances is located at #2, 2401 Saskatchewan Ave W in Portage la Prairie. The store can be reached by calling (204) 857-7803, and further information regarding inventory and delivery can be accessed via its website.
