Ken Dudley started his business from the front porch of his Freehold home nearly 40 years ago. Aptly described by his daughter (Donna Mae Dudley-Klob) as an entrepreneur/risk-taker, Ken and his wife wanted to raise their family in a place where kids played outside, people looked out for each other, and he could build a future.
In 1978, Tip Top sold TVs, appliances, and furniture from a red brick building in front of the original R.C. Lacy Ford on Route 32.
By 1989, Tip Top had expanded to encompass several buildings in the center of Freehold. Then came a fire that destroyed everything. When many others would have just given up, Dudley continued to service his customers from and RV on the site until he could rebuild. The key to business survival is a loyal and growing customer-base, and the longevity and success of Tip Top is evidence of that fact.
Today, Tip Top brings over 50 of the top brands in Furniture, Bedding, Floor Covering and Window Treatments to customers in Greene and surrounding counties. Their showroom in Freehold offers almost 30,000 square feet of displays where you can see, touch, and experience “Everything you desire to decorate your home”. Tip-Top’s mission of serving the customer is shared by every one of its 15 employees, who have built careers in the business, some for over 20 years.
“We focus on finding solutions to our customers’ needs” says Donna May Dudley-Klob, “not just selling. We want purchases made here to be the right fit for the buyer’s needs, style, and budget, because we care about making the customer experience the best it can be.”
Tip Top customers certainly value the personal service and attention they receive, and the business continues to grow. When asked how she envisioned her company in 10 years, Donna Mae responded: “Right here, continuing to make Tip Top a Home Furnishings destination in Greene County.” There have been challenges, set-backs, and successes over the years, but today Tip Top Furniture – Carpet One Flooring – America’s Mattress is a home furnishings destination, proudly serving customers from Greene and surrounding counties.
If you want to learn more about how to Make It In Greene, check out our free helpful business guides and contact the Invest In Greene team by email or phone at 518-719-3290.
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Topics: Success Stories
