NFIB

Globe Furniture in Chillicothe has had 102 years of experience providing quality service for its customers while spanning five generations of the Schachne family. Siegfried Schachne started the business in 1905, at the original location on Main Street in downtown Chillicothe. Since then, the family-run store has undergone many changes including one relocation and two expansions to the business in the '50s and '60s.

Linda Brown, current owner and great granddaughter of the original founder, also recognizes the change in various products the company has sold since its creation,

"Our product mix has changed through the years as the needs of the community have changed," said Brown. "At one time we sold heating stoves, small appliances and major appliances including TVs and carpeting. Now we are a general furniture store with area rugs and bedding, and sell residential as well as some commercial furniture."

Along with the continually changing products at Globe Furniture, other changes are evident in the furniture industry. Brown acknowledges that more and more independent furniture retailers are going out of business due to lack of succession or tough economic conditions. These issues can be burdensome to a small-business owner, but with the help of NFIB, Brown believes she has a voice.

"NFIB keeps me up to date on issues and provides, through their Web site and [MyBusiness] magazine, good information on topics and tips that might benefit business," said Brown. "Even though we are a small company, I feel like I am represented because NFIB is there to protect my rights and voice my opinion. In numbers, we can make a difference."

NFIB supports businesses such as Globe Furniture by continually helping to further the cause of small business. Brown believes NFIB has allowed her more of an opportunity to understand the issues affecting small business and has given her the proper resources to take action.

"I've contacted our Ohio legislative representative when issues important to me are up for discussion or vote," said Brown. "NFIB assists in providing those contacts and the pros and cons of those issues. Otherwise, I may not know what is happening or how to make my opinions known. We take great pride in the area where we have lived for five generations and will continue to maintain the values that have built our reputation. Being a small-business owner allows us to control our destiny."