A new business is hoping to fill a vacuum left by the closure of a longtime Orillia store.
Supreme Furniture and Vacuums opened at 400 Laclie St. this week, at the same location the former Vacuum Center and Shade Center operated for years.
The new business offers vacuums, parts and repairs, furniture, and more.
It’s run by owner William Smith, who operates another location in Barrie and brings more than three decades of experience in the vacuum industry.
“We figured there was a need to come to Orillia because there's no other vacuum stores, I don't believe, north of Barrie,” Smith told OrilliaMatters. “There's kind of a void for someone (who is) able to help people with service and stuff.”
Smith deals in all things vacuum-related, with the addition of furniture, as well.
“We do sales, repairs of most makes of vacuum cleaners, central vacuums, uprights, canisters. We sell hose kits for central vacs, steam cleaners, bags, belts, parts, accessories, so pretty well everything you would need for vacuum,” Smith said.
“We also do furniture: we sell sectionals, sofas, recliners, lift chairs, coffee tables, end tables," he explained. “We're very competitive, because I've been in the business a long time and I try to carry a lot of Canadian-made brands.”
Smith said he is able to repair most makes of vacuum cleaners, and provide advice on central vac installation — something a customer might not get through a large retailer or department store.
“If you lose a floor brush or break something, we'll be able to get you the parts,” Smith said. “The department stores typically don't bother with looking after you after you buy the item, so if you need a repair or any kind of parts, filters, bags ... we're here to help you.”
Although his business just opened, Smith said he has already had a few customers come by looking for supplies.
“We're glad to be in Orillia and hope that there's a lot of demand for the repairs, bags and belts, and hopefully we should be able to keep people where they don't have to drive out of town for service,” he said.
After its owners retired earlier this year, Vacuum Center and Shade Center was purchased by a new owner and currently operates out of Barrie — though it still services Orillia.
