Fall 2014 Hardlines Strategies

CUSTOMER FEATURE

A Strong Partnership Star Lumber Celebrates 75th Anniversary, Long History With Blish-Mize

“I remember going to the Blish show with my dad when I was a little boy,” says Star Lumber CEO and Chairman of the Board Chris Goebel. “We’ve been with Blish for as long as I can remember.” “It’s been since before either Chris or I was born,” adds President and COO Patrick Goebel. Whatever the exact number of years— Chris and Patrick, who are cousins, esti- mate it is at least 50—it’s been a strong relationship for Star Lumber and Blish- Mize, and it’s one both parties value, thanks to close relationships between employees and a strong understanding of each other’s businesses. From the Ground Up Star Lumber was founded in 1939 by Earl Goebel, a contractor (and Chris and Patrick’s grandfather) who decided to make the switch from residential and commercial construction to retail. The company grew over time, both by building new locations and acquiring other busi- nesses, and was passed down from one generation to the next. The flagship store in Wichita, Kansas, has gone through several remodels but still stands in the same spot as the original building, at the corner of Maple and West streets. That building currently boasts three stores—a retail location, a home concepts design center and a flooring and been a Blish-Mize customer? It’s a question not even Star’s president or CEO can answer. H ow long has Star Lumber

Although it’s been through several remodels, the Star Lumber flagship location stands in the same spot today in Wichita, Kansas, as the original building did when it was constructed in 1939.

8 Fall 2014 • Hardlines Strategies