By STEVE HALL
When FranklinCovey Co. relaunched its 117 stores Monday, Stephen R.Covey, co-chairman of the board, called it “the first major effort which (the) recently merged organization is undertaking … to reflect a whole new retail concept.”
The new concept called for combining Franklin Quest and Covey Leadership Center products into new Franklin Covey “Seven Habits” stores. The stores now include, in addition to FranklinCovey’s world-famous organizational products, over 300 new “tools for effective living” self-improvement products ranging from inspirational items to computer software and electronics.
Hyrum Smith, CEO and co-chairman of the board of FranklinCovey Co., said that the company has taken a “whole-life” approach with its new stores.
“It’s more than life management, more than increasing productivity, and far more than the world of business.” he said. “Consumers will find tools to help them live more productive lives. … The key is that all the products available at the FranklinCovey Seven Habits stores will be based on principles of proven effectiveness.”
Rick Walker, manager of the Seven Habits store in Salt Lake City, said that the change is more than just a smart business move for the company.
“I would call it a marriage of two great concepts,” Walker said. “FranklinCovey’s goal is to find products that are going to help people. Whether that be a particular book or tape-(customers) can find something to help them(selves) here.”
“We are constantly kept fresh and up to date with new things on the family, business, finances and leadership” Walker said. “We have a lot of specific (products) in our stores now, but those could change as FranklinCovey’s desire to provide the best (products) out there changes.”
FranklinCovey currently plans to make minor modifications in all its 117 stores nationwide.
“These new stores will have an ambiance of real-living and reflection. We think it will make it a very attractive place for people to come browse around …and relax,” he said.
But with so many stores to modify, and 20 new stores planned within the next year, Smith said customers won’t see immediate change.
“The signs in front of the stores are starting to change,” he said. “(But) it will take about 90 days for that to happen. The merchandise is in the stores as we speak.”
Walker isn’t concerned that his location doesn’t have a new sign yet.
“So far we only have a poster on the window with the new company name,” he said, “But we have the new products, and we’re excited about that.”
