Empire Carpet, now widely known as Empire Today, is a household name in the American flooring industry. With decades of catchy commercials and in-home services, many consumers wonder: Who owns Empire Carpet? This article will clarify ownership, trace the brand’s evolution, and offer in-depth insight into Empire Today’s current operations, leadership, and influence across the U.S.
Empire Carpet: Brand Overview And Evolution
Empire Carpet became a prominent American brand by offering convenient in-home shopping and quick installation for flooring products. The company’s jingle, “800-588-2300 Empire Today!” is instantly recognizable throughout the United States. Over the years, Empire Carpet rebranded as Empire Today to better reflect its expanded product range and modernized service approach.
Who Owns Empire Carpet? The Current Ownership Structure
From Family-Owned To Private Equity
Originally founded as a family business, Empire Carpet has undergone several ownership changes. Today, Empire Today is owned by H.I.G. Capital, LLC, a global private equity firm headquartered in Miami, Florida. H.I.G. Capital acquired Empire Today in 2016 as part of its strategy to invest in strong consumer brands and established service companies.
| Owner | Type | Headquarters |
|---|---|---|
| H.I.G. Capital, LLC | Private Equity Firm | Miami, FL |
Empire Today’s Corporate Leadership
Although H.I.G. Capital owns Empire Today, day-to-day operations are managed by a team of seasoned executives. The leadership group is responsible for strategic guidance, innovation, and delivering the classic customer service that made Empire Carpet a household name.
Empire Carpet’s Acquisition Timeline And Brand Shifts
Key Milestones In Ownership
- 1959: Empire Carpet is founded in Chicago, IL, by Seymour Cohen, as a local carpet and flooring retailer specializing in direct-to-home sales.
- 2002: Empire Carpet rebrands as Empire Today to highlight a broader product offering that includes hardwood, laminate, and window treatments.
- 2016: H.I.G. Capital acquires Empire Today, providing the financial backing to support national growth and digital modernization.
Why The Rebranding?
The shift to the Empire Today name positioned the company as a provider of not just carpet, but a comprehensive selection of flooring solutions. This rebrand increased customer awareness of offerings beyond carpet and helped modernize the overall image.
Empire Carpet’s Business Model: In-Home Convenience
A key differentiator for Empire Carpet (Empire Today) is the Shop at Home model. Customers schedule free in-home appointments, choose from a curated product selection, and often receive installation as soon as the next day.
- Free In-Home Estimates: Professional consultants bring product samples directly to customers, fostering tailored recommendations.
- Quick Turnaround: Local inventory and streamlined logistics allow for rapid product delivery and installation.
- Comprehensive Service: Empire Today provides carpet, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, tile flooring, and window treatments, catering to broad home improvement needs.
Products And Services Empire Today Offers
Empire Today’s product catalog includes:
- Residential and commercial carpet
- Luxury vinyl plank & tile
- Hardwood flooring
- Laminates
- Porcelain and ceramic tile
- Window treatments (blinds and shades)
Customers receive personalized support, from product selection by in-home consultants to final installation and follow-up care. Additional services include furniture moving and old-floor removal for maximum convenience.
Empire Carpet’s Geographic Reach And Nationwide Presence
Initially regional, Empire Today has become a national brand serving most major metropolitan areas in the U.S. Its expansive installer network and warehouses enable rapid fulfillment in over 75 markets.
| Service Model | Primary Locations | Delivery Speed |
|---|---|---|
| In-Home Shopping | Major Cities & Suburbs Nationwide | Next-Day Installation In Many Areas |
Empire Carpet’s Advertising Legacy And Brand Recognition
Empire Today’s marketing campaigns are legendary in the U.S., with decades of television, radio, and print commercials. The classic jingle and “Empire Man” mascot are ingrained in American pop culture. This sustained advertising success has positioned Empire Today as a trusted provider for homeowners and businesses alike.
Relationship Between Empire Carpet And Empire Today
For many consumers, Empire Carpet and Empire Today mean the same thing. However, Empire Today is now the official name, reflecting the brand’s commitment to timely installation and an expanded product range. The legacy “Empire Carpet” phrase still resonates, especially among long-standing customers.
Key Points Of Continuity
- The same jingle and branding character (“Empire Man”) persist after the name change.
- Phone number and digital presence remain consistent, reinforcing recognition and reliability.
- Core commitment to customer convenience and satisfaction is unchanged.
Is Empire Carpet Publicly Traded?
Empire Today is not a publicly traded company and does not sell shares on public stock exchanges. Its private equity ownership by H.I.G. Capital means financial information is less public, but industry analysts still track its performance relative to national flooring competitors.
Empire Today’s Leadership And Corporate Structure
Empire Today’s executive team blends long-standing industry experience with contemporary retail expertise. The leadership is overseen by H.I.G. Capital but operates autonomously within the company’s service-driven model.
- CEO: The Chief Executive Officer leads strategic initiatives and directs day-to-day management.
- Operations, Marketing, and Logistics Heads: Experts in service delivery, digital outreach, and supply chain optimization maintain Empire Today’s market relevance.
How Private Equity Ownership Impacts Empire Today
H.I.G. Capital’s acquisition brought fresh investment, operational resources, and access to strategic partnerships. This ownership model accelerates expansion, enables digital transformation, and brings a focus on measurable performance and profitability.
- Growth Funding: Infusions of capital fostered new service territories and technology upgrades.
- Market Expansion: Empire Today now reaches customers in regions that were previously unserved.
- Professional Management: Private equity oversight supports long-term value creation through best business practices.
Empire Carpet’s Place In The U.S. Flooring Market
Empire Today competes with traditional brick-and-mortar retailers, big box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s, and other shop-at-home solutions. Its focus on convenience, quick turnaround, and personalized service provides differentiation.
Industry reports indicate Empire Today holds a significant share of the residential flooring installation market, especially in urban and suburban locations where time and service are critical purchase factors.
Empire Today’s Recent Business Performance
While specific financial data is not publicly disclosed, industry observers note that Empire Today’s revenues and footprint have expanded under private equity ownership. The company’s scalable model and recognition make it a formidable player in the home improvement sector.
Frequently Asked Questions About Empire Carpet Ownership
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Who owns Empire Carpet/Empire Today? | Empire Today is owned by H.I.G. Capital, a private equity firm. |
| When did Empire Carpet become Empire Today? | The rebranding occurred in 2002. |
| Is Empire Today a franchise? | No, it is a privately owned, centralized corporation. |
Why Ownership Matters For Consumers
Knowing who owns Empire Carpet helps consumers understand the company’s resources, stability, and corporate priorities. Private equity ownership means strong investment backing, which supports innovation, customer service infrastructure, and sustained national advertising campaigns.
Empire Carpet In The Digital Age
With H.I.G. Capital’s support, Empire Today has embraced digital transformation. It offers customers streamlined online scheduling, expanded product galleries, and more robust online resources. These improvements enhance the customer experience and keep the brand relevant in a rapidly evolving retail landscape.
Comparing Empire Carpet To Competitors
| Provider | Business Model | Key Strength | Target Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Empire Today | In-home Shopping & Installation | Speed, Convenience, Recognition | Urban/Suburban Homeowners |
| Home Depot/Lowe’s | In-Store Retail + Installation | Low Prices, Wide Range | DIY & General Consumers |
| Local Flooring Retailers | In-Store + Local Delivery | Specialized Service, Local Appeal | Community-based Shoppers |
Customer Reviews And Market Reputation
Empire Today enjoys strong name recall and generally positive customer feedback, especially for quick service and convenience. As with any large service provider, experiences may vary by location and installer. Online reviews highlight the speed of appointments and installations as key differentiators.
How Empire Today Handles Quality Control
With a large, decentralized installer network, maintaining quality is vital. Empire Today employs rigorous background checks, training programs, and ongoing performance monitoring for both sales consultants and installers. Customer support remains available after job completion, ensuring satisfaction and accountability.
Empire Carpet’s Social Responsibility And Sustainability Initiatives
The company has made efforts toward sustainability, such as recycling flooring materials and supporting eco-friendly product options. Empire Today also supports local communities through charitable donations and partnerships, reflecting responsible citizenship that can influence purchase decisions.
Empire Today’s Future Outlook
With the backing of private equity, a recognized brand, and a tech-forward approach, Empire Carpet—now Empire Today—is positioned for continued growth in the competitive flooring market. Ongoing investments in logistics and customer service are expected to reinforce its market standing.
Key Takeaways: Empire Carpet Ownership
- Empire Today (formerly Empire Carpet) is owned by H.I.G. Capital, a major private equity firm.
- The company uses a shop-at-home model for fast, convenient flooring solutions nationwide.
- The rebranding and expansion reflect changes in consumer needs and home improvement trends.
- Strong advertising and a memorable brand keep Empire Today top-of-mind for American homeowners.
To learn more about service areas, current promotions, or book an in-home appointment, visit the official Empire Today website.