Customer Spotlight: DIY Supply

At Registix, we believe in the power of our customers' stories. Our "Customer Spotlight" series offers a glimpse into their entrepreneurial journeys, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that define their paths. Dive in as we celebrate the visionaries who inspire and redefine industry standards with us.

A Journey from Sporting Goods to Home Appliances

In the heart of Somerset, Kentucky, DIY Supply stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of small businesses. Founded in 2016, this discount retailer has carved a niche for itself in the home improvement and appliance sector.

Jon, the owner, recalls the company's origins, "We primarily sell appliances and home improvement materials, most of which we get from the secondary market. Appliances make up about 50% of our business."

But DIY Supply wasn't Jon's first foray into the retail world. "Back in 2012, after retiring from the Army, I started a business called Affordable Outdoors, selling sporting goods," he shares. However, the changing retail landscape, heavily influenced by e-commerce giants like Amazon, prompted a shift. "Items like appliances are less likely to be harmed by e-commerce. Consumers aren’t going to buy a refrigerator they don't see in person," Jon explains.

The transition wasn't without its challenges. "It was like going to school again," Jon admits. From understanding the appliance industry to mastering marketing strategies, it was a steep learning curve, but the results speak for themselves. "We have the largest market share in our local market, and have a tremendous customer reach all over Kentucky," Jon proudly states.;

A significant part of DIY Supply's success can be attributed to its partnership with Registix. "Registix is our primary partner in the Appliance space" Jon reveals. Their relationship is built on mutual growth and trust. "Both of our businesses have grown together. They've always treated each transaction with a personal touch," he adds.

Jon's enthusiasm for the future is palpable. With access to new product lines and a growing network of facilities, he believes DIY Supply has a competitive edge. "In a place like Somerset, Kentucky, that's a huge advantage. There's a sense of exclusivity in my market," he concludes.

The Importance of Business Relationships and Product Quality

Jon's journey with DIY Supply has been marked by lessons learned, especially when it comes to choosing business partners and ensuring product quality. "If you can only get them to respond to email or through call, chances are the person you're dealing with today won't be there months from now due to turnover."

Jon's experience with Registix stands in stark contrast to other companies. "Do business with companies like Registix where you can get someone on the phone, have a conversation," he advises. This personal touch, he believes, is crucial in building lasting business relationships.

But it's not just about the relationship. The quality of the product is paramount. "Pay particular attention to the quality of the product you bring in," Jon emphasizes. "What you're bringing in is what you're selling to your customer." He stresses the importance of standing behind the products you sell, especially in an industry like appliances where issues can arise years after the purchase.

Jon candidly shares some early missteps, "We experienced that early on with some of the product lines. I'm not very proud that we sold some of the stuff we sold when we first started." He mentions the challenges with products from other suppliers, contrasting it with his experience with Registix. "Usually, if there's a discrepancy with Registix, I know something within a day or two. Their credit memos show up within a week."

Reflecting on his journey, Jon's advice to others in the industry is clear: prioritize product quality and build strong, transparent relationships with suppliers. "Garbage in, garbage out," he warns. "If you cut corners, it will come back to haunt you."

From Military Service to Business Success: Jon's Journey

Jon's military background has been a cornerstone of his approach to business. "Being enlisted in the Army taught me resourcefulness," he begins. In a world where you often don't have the right tools or parts, Jon learned to adapt and make do. This adaptability and resourcefulness have been instrumental in his success in the appliance business.

Jon's military experience provided more than just a knack for improvisation. It instilled in him vital leadership traits. "The Army taught me how to handle and develop people, how to build relationships, and how to ensure everyone is in their best position," he shares. Drawing a vivid analogy, he adds, "If you're trying to drive a nail with a wrench, it's not the wrench's fault. The Army taught me to recognize who's a wrench and who's a hammer and to always put them in those positions."

This military mindset extends to his organizational approach at DIY Supply. He treats every day as a training exercise, breaking down tasks using an organizational model he learned in the Army. This structured approach has given him an edge over his competition, allowing his company to carve out a significant piece of the local market.

Highlighting his partnership with Registix, Jon believes it's been a key factor in his success. "They always have a pulse on the market," he says. "They offer products at prices that are ahead of anywhere else on the market." He emphasizes the importance of trust in their relationship. "The edge is access," he says. "Being there when they need me so they're there when I need them."

Jon's journey in the business world is a testament to the power of adaptability, foresight, and trust. His unique approach to challenges, rooted in a mindset of resourcefulness and innovation, has set him apart in the dynamic landscape of the appliance business. By prioritizing relationships, understanding market inefficiencies, and always seeking to provide value, Jon has carved out a niche for himself and his enterprise. His story serves as an inspiring reminder that with the right perspective and partnerships, one can navigate complexities and achieve success in any endeavor.