“Montgomery’s has been my family’s business for 133 years and five generations,” said Eric Sinclair, president of the home furnishings and interior design company.
This month, Sinclair said, Montgomery’s will celebrate that 133- year anniversary by holding an anniversary sale at all locations: Sioux Falls, Madison, and Watertown.
And it won’t be long until the company opens a new store located in Aberdeen: Montgomery’s Design Studio.
Sinclair shared with 605 his journey to becoming president, where he likes to stop for munchies, and which mistake people should avoid when purchasing furniture.
“I love working with the team we have because I’m surrounded by people who care about our customers and the company.” -Eric Sinclair
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO WORK AT MONTGOMERY’S AND WHEN?
You have to earn the right to work in the family business, it’s not given. That means earn a degree and go work for someone else first, then you can work here. After I did that, I wanted to come back to South Dakota to raise my family and work here, and I’ve been president of Montgomery’s since 2013.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS?
Doing the same thing—déjà vu, Groundhog Day. I love what I’m doing and see no need to change.
WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO GO FOR A BITE?
Backyard BBQ is a favorite because it’s a family-owned business, and it’s located right by our Western Avenue distribution center. The smell of barbecue lures us in.
WHAT’S THE MOST COMMON MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE SEARCHING FOR NEW FURNITURE?
There are huge differences in the quality of furniture, so buying furniture that looks good but is inexpensive is a common mistake. You will spend less, but you may have to replace it sooner than you’d like.
WHO MAKES UP YOUR FAMILY?
My wife and I have three adorable children. And I have a hard time finding the time to bathe and feed myself, so no pets.
