Building and managing the Blackman showroom brand is a core component of the Company’s success. Blackman was established in 1921 and currently has 13 locations within the New York metro area. Partnering with other brands that respect the importance of brand investment is one of the criteria used by Blackman to evaluate business relationships. ROHL’s commitment to brand building makes this a perfect partnership.

David Lyon, Managing Director of Showroom Operations, is responsible for designing Blackman showrooms and managing the Blackman brand. With an impressive business background, David understands that brand awareness is crucial to connecting with customers. His approach is to couple strong nationally recognized brands with his strong regional showroom brand. This synergy offers a compelling proposition that makes it easier for a customer to make a decision, and for sales associates to close the sale.

This strategy explains why Blackman and ROHL have been such strong partners for over six years. Lyon attributes much of his success with ROHL to its national marketing and branding efforts. He further believes that ROHL’s brand investments have had a direct impact on the growth of ROHL product in his market. “Our investment in the Blackman brand, coupled with ROHL’s national presence has given our customers the confidence to shop and buy from us. There’s always a constant connection with advertising. Awareness gives customers confidence.”

The brand strength is the lynchpin, but David readily notes that ROHL’s breadth of product, comprehensive training and merchandising support also differentiates the brand. “The full cache of product design and wide range of price points sets ROHL apart from other lines in our showroom,” notes Lyon.

Looking ahead, Lyon suggests that the strain on the economy has made brand recognition even more critical. “I know ROHL gets it and I know Blackman gets it and I believe that is what will make our partnership grow even stronger in the future.”