Connecticut Leader in Appliance and Fireplace Products Got There by Investing in Consumer and Employee Education

“We know everything about every product and piece of equipment we sell,” Connecticut Appliance and Fireplace Distributors (CAFD) owner, Doug DuPont, says emphatically.

The Southington based retail and trade supplier was established 46 years ago, and DuPont joined the company as a field rep in 1988. He became its owner nine years later, so he takes double pride in being the largest appliance and hearth product showroom in the state, and Connecticut’s leading authority in appliance and hearth products.

Doug DuPont has a habit of “putting his money where his mouth is”.

CAFD has just completed a third hearth product showroom on the second floor of its 10,000 facility. The newest addition is designed and dedicated to displaying gas inserts and educating the public about the energy saving benefits they provide. Two more functioning display rooms on the main level showcase working fireplaces and stoves from a multitude of quality hearth product manufacturers.

 A fireplace is the #2 most desired home amenity

The 2011 State of the Hearth Industry Report revealed that 85% of homebuyers and homeowners either have a fireplace or want one in a future home. As a home option, fireplaces are the # 2 desired amenity among homebuyers, second only to outdoor spaces. And CAFD has #1 covered with their outstanding Outdoor Living showroom.

In May, CAFD Sales Manager, John Gillotti traveled to Minneapolis for an intense wood and gas burning fireplace Builder Sales Training course  that armed him with the latest consumer and industry research.

 “A fireplace increases a home’s value by $3,500 on average,” said Gillotti, “and National Association of Realtors (NAR) research indicates that homebuyers rate fireplaces as a key feature in selling a home.” 

With this in mind, more builders are making upscale features like fireplaces, granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances—standard, even in lower-priced homes.

Today’s many product choices require the advice of a knowledgeable supplier

When it comes to wood and gas burning fireplace technology and installation know how, Doug DuPont takes his company’s reputation as Connecticut’s leading authority seriously.

 “We chose to partner with CAFD because they have been on the cutting edge of fireplace design and technology for years,” said HHT Regional Vice-President, Gary Martin.