Baton Rouge, La.—Cornerstone Flooring Companies has joined Alliance Flooring as the company refocuses on growing its residential division.
Jim Lloyd, president and founder of Cornerstone Flooring, considered several options before selecting Alliance Flooring. He said the group offered the support Cornerstone wanted while allowing the company to maintain its independence.
“We wanted to partner with a group that didn’t mandate to us or tell us what we had to do,” Lloyd said. “We wanted one that would support us and be our partner. We’ve been in business for 25 years and we wanted to keep our autonomy. Alliance Flooring lets us keep our independence and make decisions we feel are best for us and our market.”
Ryan Dunn, CEO and co-president of Alliance Flooring, welcomed Cornerstone’s residential division to the organization. “We are thrilled that Jim Lloyd and the Cornerstone Flooring residential division have chosen to join Alliance Flooring. For more than 25 years, the Cornerstone team has built a strong reputation as a respected commercial flooring provider and they are now bringing that same expertise and business approach to the residential market. Having experienced the benefits of a buying group, Jim and his team understand the value of finding the right partner—one that can provide resources, innovation and support while allowing them to maintain their independence.”
For more than 25 years, Cornerstone has built its business in the commercial flooring market. The company has developed manufacturer relationships, installation expertise and connections with contractors, builders, designers and property managers. Cornerstone now plans to use those strengths to expand its residential retail business.
Lloyd said visits to two Alliance Flooring member stores helped demonstrate what the organization could offer. “After visiting two of their members’ stores, I saw the benefits of what they could offer us and how they operate,” he explained. “They have what it takes to help small and large businesses succeed in retail. We noticed something right away—they don’t sit on their laurels. They are constantly looking ahead and keeping their members on the cutting edge with technology, merchandising and networking.”
Residential expansion takes shape
Manning Lloyd, Cornerstone’s corporate recruiter, brand and marketing manager, also cited Alliance Flooring’s approach to innovation. “I appreciate what they are doing. They aren’t satisfied with the status quo. In fact, they are continually innovating and making things better and smoother for us. They have an impressive team.”
Cornerstone will build its new showroom around Alliance Flooring’s Perfect Home retail selling system. The concept aims to create an organized shopping environment while improving merchandising efficiency and product presentation.
Ray DeWitt, who joined Cornerstone in June as residential manager, added: “At first, I thought we would have to do things the way they told us and that they wouldn’t be able to provide much to help us. I was wrong about that. This group is top-notch and a true partner that I can now see will help us be successful.”
Looking ahead
Cornerstone will retain its independence while gaining access to Alliance Flooring’s retail resources, technology and merchandising support.
“Another exciting aspect of this partnership is the future leadership already in place at both organizations,” Dunn added. “Jim has Manning, while Kevin and I have our sons, Ethan Logue and RJ Dunn, working alongside us as we prepare the next generation to carry both companies forward. That creates a natural connection between our organizations and a shared perspective on long-term growth, succession and the future of the flooring industry. We look forward to working with the entire Cornerstone team.”