Image Credit: Christine Han
Today we’d like to introduce you to Sabra Krock.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Sabra. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Everything But Water was founded over 30 years ago, and my husband, Randall Blumenthal, and I purchased the company about 8 years ago. Consumed by the financial crisis, the financial firms that owned the company previously did not invest in the business. We saw an opportunity to reinvigorate and redefine a brand that still resonated with customers. My husband grew up in Houston through high school, and part of the due diligence process included my husband’s mother visited the Houston stores to offer her perspective on service levels and the product offering. She loved the experienced salespeople and broad but carefully curated product selection.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The company required a head-to-toe re-invigoration from systems, software and processes to growing the team to pruning and expanding the portfolio of stores to completely re-imagining the store design, marketing communication and branding. At any given time, there have been major projects and initiatives underway which has been a challenge to manage and has required many resources and focus. We’ve learned along the way and have continued to improve along all these areas – the retail environment is never static and there is always a call to recognize trend and opportunities, adapt to the new dynamics, and indeed have forethought and confidence to get ahead of the curve.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Everything But Water – what should we know?
We are the largest specialty retailer of women’s designer swimwear, resort wear and accessories in the United States.
We are known for having an unparalleled expertise in the category – we have a broad but carefully curated product selection and expert sales Associates who truly know the product, fits and fashions. We present a very unique holistic offering in this area – beautifully designed, easy-to-shop stores, a presentation that befits the truly exciting, fashion category swimwear has become, and a sophisticated brand image. No other company has our year-round expertise, our history and experience over a 30 year timeframe and the resources we have to bring the best experience to the customer
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
We have an amazing team – from our executive team to our associates. Some of our staff has been with the company for over 20 years. Our salespeople are our face to the customer and are an inspiration for the commitment to really knowing the product to ensuring customers leave our store happy and excited for their swimwear occasion and feeling beautiful and confident, no matter what their feelings were about diving into swimwear before they walked in the door.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.everythingbutwater.com
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
