Creston is no different than any other border community. Changes in the value of the Canadian dollar versus U.S. currency have a direct affect on local shopping. But shopping habits die hard, and after a long run with our dollar at or near par, Creston Valley residents might not even realize that there is good value to be had right in our back yard.
“We just like to be considered in people’s shopping decisions,” says Bob Vance, who owns Vance BrandSource Home Furnishings with his son, Justin. “Our furniture, almost exclusively made in Canada and the U.S., is solid wood and comes with options that Asian-made products don’t. Different coverings and wood types are commonly available. And the price gap has shrunk, too, with the change in the value of the dollar and increasing standard of living off shore.”
Bob and his brother, Doug, purchased the furniture and appliance business in 1999, operating as Vance Brothers Countrywide, located on 15th Avenue South, between Canyon and Cook Streets.
Three years ago, Bob and Justin became the owners, renovated the building and changed the name to Vance BrandSource Home Furnishing.
“As Creston locals, we give the service and personal touch our customers deserve. And as part of BrandSource, we can offer choice and a price guarantee to give you the best of both worlds.”
New customers often comment that the store is surprisingly competitive on price, especially considering the huge selection of appliances, mattresses, upholstered furniture, bedroom and dining room furniture and accessories like rugs, lamps, wall art and other home décor.
“I am never offended when I am asked to price match,” Bob says. “I am happy for the opportunity and if we aren’t able to match a price it means a lot to us that were given the chance. Shoppers shouldn’t just make the assumption that they can get better value across the border — that isn’t necessarily the case any more.”
Interestingly, he says that the number of out-of-towners who are coming to Creston to shop is increasing.
“We are getting more business from out of town than ever before. We are really enjoying a boost from the Nelson area, where people are coming from to take advantage of organic farm products and locally grown food. It shows how important agriculture can be to our entire community.”
