Great Bend’s Custom Re-Bath is a proven top performer on a national scale. Three years running it has earned the Platinum Franchise Award from its corporate office. Among small market franchise stores across the country, it was one of only three selected this year for the prestigious award.
The store, located at 1702 Main St., does bathroom remodels, replacing the old look with Re-Bath’s durable acrylic and solid surface polymer products. Remodels cover everything from floor to ceiling and can include a wide assortment of fixtures and accessories in between.
Potter began her Re-Bath franchise six years ago. For the first 18 months, the business struggled.
“I wouldn’t want to do that first year and a half over again for anything,” said Potter
Along with her son, James Crawford, as the installer of the products, Potter forged ahead and word of mouth about their superior products and quality service spread. They now serve all of western Kansas and most of central Kansas, including Salina.
“One of the key things with our products is they have a lifetime warranty,” explained Potter. “This company has been around for 30 years and its products have stood the test of time. When installed, it should look brand new 30 years from now. You don’t have grout to maintain. Our caulking is guaranteed not to mold or discolor. It is pretty much maintenance free.”
The first year, in 2005, the Great Bend store did 109 unit installs; that increased to 130 the next year. Business has progressively increased each subsequent year to the point that the store is on pace to do more than 300 installs this year.
Three years ago they added two employees – another installer and a sales representative – to keep up with growing business demand. Paula Robinson is the sales person for the business, Willie Barron is the additional installer, and Potter’s daughter, Whitney, works part time in accounts receivable.
Custom Re-Bath has developed new products and new looks over those years as well, providing additional install opportunities for the Great Bend franchise. But the biggest draw for Potter is referrals and repeat business from satisfied customers.
“A lot of our business comes from referrals from previous customers, or from repeat customers,” said Potter. “We’ve even done two or three bathrooms for some people. We’re proud to have that sort of reputation.”
Walk-in tubs were popular for several years, explained Potter, but now most of today’s business is tub-to-shower conversions, she added.
Those interested in finding out more about Custom Re-Bath can visit the showroom during business hours, or contact Potter, 620-792-2709, ksrebath@cox.net. Also, find out more about the products at the company’s website, rebath.com.