Behind-the-Scenes of a Multi-Million Dollar Window Treatment Business
Working with family, starting at ground zero and scaling to multi-seven figures, Window Works has been family-owned and operated since 1982. They specialize in window treatments and awnings for residential and commercial use, especially “problem situations” that seem nearly impossible to address properly.
Our WCAA staff was able to steal a few moments of founding partner, co-owner and now chairman of the board,Vince Nigara’s time and get a look behind-the-scenes at the structure, growth, and now succession plan as he transitions out of Windows Works into his role as new managing partner of Exciting Windows! Today he shares the success pillars of this colossal window treatment operation. Enjoy!
Meet Vince Nigara
Vince is a founding and managing partner of Window Works. After spending many years selling awnings and window treatments, Vince primarily oversees the Window Works team. His expert leadership continues to enrich and inspire - and he is the “go to” source when his team needs a unique solution for a complex awning or window treatment installation. We were thrilled that he made time to speak with us.
Hi, Vince! Let’s start with the basics. How long have you been in business? 40 years
What is your geographic service area?:
We serve residential and commercial clients in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut.
How many people are on your team?
Seventeen and counting!
What is your annual gross income?
$4M+
Impressive! What is your business's specialty?
High end, quality window treatment and awning products along with a commitment to exceptional service.
How did you personally learn or get into this trade?
My best friend Fred Florio (founder of the Window Works franchises) sold me blinds for my home. After a discussion about the business, I purchased 3 franchises from him - and away we went!
How Window Works Has Structured Their Family-Run Team
Which of your family members work with you?
My wife was our vice president and now serves as co-chairman of the board with me.
My son-in-law is the new majority partner. He is the managing partner and he is also responsible for ⅓ of our gross sales.
My daughter works in and with our marketing team.
My cousin is our lead for all interior installations and provides counsel and expertise to both the interior and exterior installation teams.
What challenges have you faced when working with family?
Mostly that we can forget the line between family and business, particularly when communicating.
Which of your family members’ skill sets differ from yours?
My wife has skills around personnel development and team management, while my son-in-law excels at high ticket sales. My daughter has branding and social media knowledge that proves over and over to be incredibly useful, especially in our marketing. My cousin is excellent at problem solving for unique installations and which has proven valuable in some pretty weird situations. We don't know what we'd do without him!
How have your family members positively impacted the business?
Although each of us has a different strength, together we are always focused on customer satisfaction and company growth.
For you personally, what has been the best part of having your family join your business?
I enjoy the daily face-to-face interaction with them and being able to see them grow professionally as well as personally.
Do any of your family members plan to take ownership of the business when you retire?
I'm proud to say that they are already part owners and we are well into succession transition at this point.
Window Works is Actively Hiring
“We always need more talented, dedicated installers and we are currently looking for specific office and showroom staff, too.”
-Vince Nigara of Window Works New Jersey
What training / education has been the most vital to the success of your business?
Being a member of Exciting Windows! as well as the WCAA have both been instrumental. At Exciting Windows, in particular, we exchange information at our weekly zoom meetings on best practices for operating a business. We cover topics from hiring to sales margins to marketing. And, as important as the information and learning is, we hold each other accountable through that membership.
Do you use a standardized workflow for each type of project or service you offer?
Yes, absolutely.
Where do you get the majority of your projects and clients?
Our customers come from print and digital marketing but the majority of our customers are referral from interior designers and our past customers
What business and project management tools do you use and recommend?
We use Marketsharp, google drive, excel and Asana.
How Running a Window Treatment Business Has Changed Vince’s Life
How has this business improved the quality of life for your family / team?
It has allowed us to create a lifestyle that enables us to do the things that are important to us. We put all four of our children through college at private universities. Additionally, not only our storefront but also the entire adjacent strip mall. We also own a second home on the Jersey Shore where our family and friends gather all summer long.
How has your business benefited from being part of the WCAA?
We always appreciate the value of being part of a community of like-minded business owners. Connecting with other focused business owners is critical for success. We also enjoy the benefits we receive from industry partners as well as the educational content presented by the WCAA.
Where can people find you?
www.windowworks-nj.com and all social networks
Thank you to Vince and the Window Works team for contributing to this interview!