Today we’d like to introduce you to Sheida Pourat.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My Parents started the business in 1980 selling inexpensive kitchen ware and tons of close out items. Basically we started off as a discount kitchen store selling everything for the kitchen at a discounted price. The business became very successful since we were also located at a very busy intersection in Los Angeles. Every day we would get new items and we were attracting more customers every day. A small store (2700sq) with tons of kitchen items at an unbelievable prices and great variety. People from all over CA would come to do their shopping at our store especially during holidays like Thanks giving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Easter and Passover the store was packed jammed. Even when customers would move away from LA, in their next visit they would stop by and take home goodies. Over the years we attracted more customers especially restaurant owners, caterers and special events. So we added more variety to our selection to satisfy both types of clienteles. We also have been featured in so many different TV programs as the best deal in town. And a couple of times we were featured in Best of LA magazine as the best selection of kitchenware under one roof. You can shop for everything in your kitchen in 30 minutes at Bargain. One thing that distinguishes us from other kitchen store is the variety of lines and pricing. You can buy a fork for .50c or $6.00. Different lines of merchandise with different prices points to satisfy the need of different customers. With the Route we took catering also to the trade, food networks, and also TV commercials our merchandise is in every restaurant.
A few years ago, we were asked by our landlord to move out since he was planning to demolish the whole corner so we opened our second location on Pico & Rimpau (mid-city) with ample parking. Once we were ready to move our landlord postponed his plans and now we have two great locations in Los Angeles ready to server more people.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
We had our ups and downs like any other business where you need to make changes from time to time in order to stay on the top. In 90s, lots of discount stores opened all over town which was making it hard to stay on the top. But once we directed our attention to a different group of clients (ex: restaurants, caterers, and events) we went back up and have been doing better and better every day. Also internet and Amazon sales have been a big competition in this picture but luckily our selection of items under one roof, with great pricing and personal customer service have win us over and over again.
Bargain Fair Kitchen Store – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We are specialized in kitchen items like white ware plates and accessories, glassware, silverware, cookware, wood items, bake ware, disposables, small appliances and many more. We have almost 10,000 stocks in the store. All the gadgets in the world and lots of specialty items that you don’t know where to find can be found in Bargain Fair.
We are proud to have been able to serve the community for the past 38 years and watching them coming back over and over again. And Mostly we have the best selection of white ware, glassware and silver ware in stock. Most importantly we sell our goods open stock as well as sets. So you can buy one spoon if you like or 100 if you need more.
It’s a family business where we know the customers well by names at times. We talk, we share and we hug!!!!!
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
We have worked hard to get our business to where it had reached. Most importantly,
with integrity, hard work, and commitment you can reach your goals and dreams!!!
Contact Info:
- Address: 7901 Beverly Blvd. Los Angeles, CA. 90048
4635 W. Pico Blvd. Los Angeles, CA. 90019 - Website: www.bargainfair.com
- Phone: 323-655-2227
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: Bargain Fair
- Facebook: Bargain Fair
- Twitter: bargain Fair
- Yelp: Bargain Fair
