Empire Today (often called Empire Carpet) is a major U.S. flooring and window coverings retailer with a recognizable jingle and mobile showroom trucks. This article explains who owns Empire Today, the company’s ownership history, leadership, and how private-equity involvement shaped its strategy and growth.
| Topic | Key Point |
|---|---|
| Current Owner | H.I.G. Capital (Private Equity) — Owns Empire Today LLC |
| Founding | Founded As A Family Business In Chicago (1959) |
| Brand | Operates As Empire Today, Known For In-Home Sales And Installation |
| Business Model | Direct-to-Consumer Sales, Mobile Showrooms, Local Install Crews |
Who Founded Empire Today And How It Began
Empire Today Began As A Local Family Business In Chicago. The company traces its roots to entrepreneur-driven retail in the mid-20th century, establishing a foothold in the Midwest through in-home sales, and building brand recognition with memorable advertising and the iconic jingle associated with scheduling free in-home estimates.
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Current Ownership: Who Owns Empire Today Now
Empire Today Is Owned By Private Equity Through Empire Today LLC. The company operates as a privately held entity and has been owned by investors and private-equity sponsors rather than being publicly traded, which allowed management to pursue growth and regional expansion strategies away from public markets.
Private Equity’s Role In The Company’s Growth
Private-Equity Ownership Has Driven Expansion, Technology Investment, And Mergers. Private equity firms typically focus on scaling operations, improving margins, and investing in digital tools for sales and logistics; Empire Today leveraged this approach to modernize scheduling, enhance e-commerce capabilities, and invest in marketing.
Ownership Timeline And Notable Transactions
Empire Today’s Ownership Evolved From Founder-Controlled To Institutional Investors. Over decades, ownership transitioned from family founders to management teams and private-equity sponsors through strategic transactions intended to provide capital, operational support, and exit options for stakeholders.
Founding And Early Growth
Empire began as a regional flooring and coverings retailer focused on direct service and fast installations. The company established its reputation by emphasizing convenience—mobile showrooms and in-home estimates—as well as competitive pricing.
Institutional Investors And Private-Equity Purchases
Private-equity groups acquired stakes to accelerate national expansion and provide capital for acquisitions, marketing, and technology. These investors typically positioned Empire to increase market share in densely populated metropolitan regions.
Recent Ownership Structure
Today Empire Today Operates Under Empire Today LLC, Controlled By Private-Equity Investors. This structure gives the company strategic flexibility and the ability to invest in customer experience initiatives and logistics networks to support faster installations.
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Leadership And Corporate Governance
Senior Management Oversees Day-To-Day Operations Under Oversight From Ownership Investors. Corporate leadership focuses on growth metrics—same-store sales, lead conversion, installation throughput—and reports to a board that includes investor representatives and independent directors where applicable.
Brand And Marketing: Why Empire Is Recognizable
Empire Today’s Jingle And Local Trucks Are Key Brand Assets. Consistent advertising, local market presence with branded trucks and in-home consultations, plus quick-installation promises help maintain brand awareness and customer trust.
Business Model And Revenue Streams
Empire’s Business Model Centers On Direct-To-Consumer Sales With Professional Installation. Revenue primarily comes from flooring sales and installation services, with additional income from window treatments, carpet cleaning, and complementary home services in some markets.
- In-Home Estimates: Technicians and sales consultants provide measurements and samples.
- Mobile Showrooms: Branded vans visit neighborhoods to increase convenience.
- Professional Installation: Local crews ensure installations meet standards.
Financial And Legal Considerations
As A Private Company, Empire Today Does Not Publish Full Public Financial Statements. Financial details are typically disclosed to investors and lenders, but press releases and industry reporting provide insight into revenue trends, store counts, and capital transactions.
How Ownership Affects Customers And Employees
Private-Equity Ownership Often Seeks Operational Efficiencies Without Altering Customer-Facing Promises. Customers should expect the same service model—free estimates, scheduling convenience, and professional installation—while employees may see changes in performance targets or operational procedures aimed at efficiency.
Competitors And Market Position
Empire Competes With National Retailers And Regional Flooring Specialists. Key competitors include large home-improvement chains, online flooring retailers, and regional carpet and flooring specialists that offer installation, sales, and local service.
What To Know If Considering Empire For A Flooring Project
Customers Should Verify Local Reviews, Installation Guarantees, And Pricing Transparency. Important factors include warranty terms, installation timelines, the experience of local crews, and a clear written contract covering scope and costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ownership
Who Is The Ultimate Owner Of Empire Today? Empire Today is held by private-equity owners through Empire Today LLC, which provides strategic direction while management runs daily operations.
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Is Empire Today Publicly Traded? No. Empire Today operates as a private company and is not listed on public stock exchanges.
Has The Company Been Sold Recently? Over the years the company has seen ownership changes common to mature retail brands; private-equity transactions and recapitalizations have been part of its evolution.
Impact Of Ownership On Service And Innovation
Institutional Ownership Often Brings Investment In Technology And Customer Experience. Investment priorities typically include streamlined scheduling systems, e-commerce interfaces, CRM platforms, and logistics improvements to reduce installation lead times.
How Empire Handles Franchising And Local Operations
Empire Primarily Operates Company-Owned Territories With Local Install Crews. The business model favors centralized branding and quality controls while employing local technicians and installers to maintain service standards in each market.
Regulatory And Compliance Notes
As A National Retailer, Empire Must Comply With Local Licensing, Labor, And Consumer-Protection Laws. This includes installer licensing where required, proper employment practices, and accurate advertising claims about pricing and warranties.
How To Find Up-To-Date Ownership Information
Confirm Ownership Through Company Press Releases, SEC Filings Of Investors, And Reputable Business Press. Since private companies do not file public annual reports, investor news, industry reporting, and statements from the company are primary sources for ownership updates.
Takeaway For Consumers And Industry Observers
Empire Today Is A Privately Owned National Retailer With Private-Equity Backing That Shapes Strategy. Consumers should evaluate offerings on service quality, warranty, and price, while industry observers can watch for further consolidation or investment-led growth initiatives.
Additional Resources And References
Verify Details With Primary Sources Such As Empire Today Press Releases, Business News Outlets, And Investor Announcements. For the most current ownership and leadership information, consult the company’s official website and reputable financial news organizations.