2 stores stay open with new FWS owners

BUFFALO, N.Y. (RELEASE) - FWS, a local tradition for furniture shoppers, has been sold to two Western New Yorkers with over 30 years of combined experience in home furnishings. FWS will continue operating two showrooms in the area: Buffalo's largest city furniture showroom on Elmwood Avenue and a sprawling suburban showroom in the heart of Williamsville at the corner of Main and Transit.

After five years with FWS as general manager, Amherst's John Wanat is thrilled to start his new role as co-owner. He says, "I am excited about keeping a Western New York tradition alive. More than anything, we are proud to employ over 40 people with families and homes in the greater Buffalo area." Former Raymour & Flanigan executive and Lockport resident John Grimaldi joins the company as a co-owner. He believes, "It's no secret Western New Yorkers love a deal. FWS has always specialized in brand new, name brand home furnishings at closeout prices. It is my only goal to continue and expand upon this truly unique local tradition."

Buffalo natives will be thrilled to know closeout shopping will be the backbone of FWS. The economic recession was especially hard on the home furnishings industry, forcing many retailers out of business. Warehouses worldwide are filled with brand new furniture, priced well below the national average. FWS's catchy jingle serves as a daily focus point as Grimaldi and Wanat make decisions to "dress up your home for less."

Plans are already underway to completely change the inventory of products at FWS to make more space in the showrooms for closeout merchandise. Select sets of customizable furniture will be available by quick ship special order, while the most stylish furniture collections will be in-stock constantly. Popular wall-to-wall carpeting, area rugs and fabrics will always be in stock. Unique, one-of-a-kind closeouts will arrive weekly in all departments. It will be like a brand new store every week!

For more information on FWS's ownership change, please visit www.fwsfurnitureonline.com