Not many people these days can say they’ve worked for the same employer for more than 50 years. But store manager Randy Marohn says Sans Furniture in Hamburg made it easy for him.
“The Rogers family, who own the business, treat us all well—it’s a nice place to work,” he says. “So I hung around and made a career out of it.”
Originally located on Sheridan Drive in the Northtowns, Sans opened its Hamburg location in 1986. It consolidated to that single location in the ’90s, and 40 years later, it’s still locally owned, with three generations of the family involved. The storefront on Buffalo Street is going strong, buoyed by word-of-mouth recommendations and a reputation for quality.
In Randy’s experience, in an era of overwhelming online options and underwhelming value for the price, being able to actually test out a piece of furniture in person before investing is more important than ever.
“We have a nice selection in the store,” he says. “It really is beneficial to be able to come and sit down and see the craftsmanship of the products we offer. Even if it’s not the item you’re buying, you can experience the craftsmanship that company offers.”
Sans prioritizes U.S. furniture manufacturers, including Amish-built pieces customizable by wood type and stain options. Its upholstery partners ensure patterns are available in multiple fabrics and styles. There’s a wide selection of reclining chairs and couches, many now motorized and featuring functions like adjustable headrests and lumbar support.
Another benefit of a family-run company with longtime employees is that they’ve seen trends come and go and can help advise on design decisions that will last. There are no high-pressure sales tactics here—just fresh perspectives and a desire to help guide customers in the right direction.
“We’re not looking to specifically sell the item that’s on the floor,” Randy explains. “We’re using the items on the floor to help the customer select what is going to work for them.”
From his start as a delivery truck driver, through a career as a salesperson and service tech and now in his role as store manager, Randy has seen tastes change over the decades. There’s less demand for formal living room pieces and traditional styles like French Provincial or Mediterranean.
But a desire for comfort and quality? That’s stood the test of time, which is why Sans Furniture has, too.
