Keith Fleming of Edmonton Custom Closets

Dealer spotlight is our new 10 question blog series where we feature Organizers Dealers around the nation. Today, we sat down with Keith Fleming of Edmonton Custom Closets to learn more about his one year of experience as an Organizers Direct Dealer. 

Tell us your background and how you came to join Organizers Direct as a Dealer?

I’ve been an entrepreneur for quite some time. First, I was a dealer for Storex for many years, but they ultimately decided to franchise. When this happened, I was cut off from a lot of new products. One day I went looking for floating shelves and ended up finding out about Organizers Direct. I realized I could get the products from them that I was looking for, so it wasn’t long after I started as one of their dealers. I’ve been in business now for 14 years, but only one year as an Organizers Direct Dealer. 

What is your primary service at Edmonton Custom Closets? 

Most of my work comes from new homeowners who have recently moved in and don’t like what the builders left them with. Usually, they want something different or something nicer than wire racking. A large portion of my work involves removing wire racks and putting in wood shelves and other systems to organize their closets. 

What was the process of getting started and launching your own business as a Dealer like?

I was already running an established business when I started with Organizers Direct, so I had a fairly easy and smooth transition. I pretty much switched over to them, got trained on the particulars of their business, and then hit the ground running. 

Why did you decide to go with Organizers Direct, rather than other companies in the space?

I chose Organizers Direct for many reasons. It was an easy transition from my prior dealer arrangement, for one. But I also loved the quality of their products and their people. The company provides incredible backup support and everyone is there to help you rather than just trying to get you off the phone. They’re good people. When I went to Phoenix and met everyone, it was impressive they were all on the same page. They make everything smooth and easy for dealers. 

What is your current day-to-day like?

It depends, but I have an installer who does the installations and I do the sales calls and designs. There’s a lot of variety each day and customer to customer, so it’s always interesting. 

What has been your favorite project you’ve worked on?

I worked on a wall unit for an entire wall that included shelving, along with a TV and fireplace mounted into it. That was really fun and ended up looking impressive. Another favorite of mine was a master bedroom walk-in closet I worked on. It was originally an old bedroom that was converted into a walk-in closet. The customer had really creative ideas, and the budget to make it happen. It was fun and ended up looking first-class.                         

What has been the key to your success?

I run the business the way how I would want someone else to. And when I’m in someone’s home, I behave how I would want someone to behave in my house. I don’t oversell or sell them something they don’t need, and I always do the best job I can. It’s basically the golden rule, and it’s made my business very successful. 

Outside of my business, I really enjoy golfing. But that’s seasonal in Edmonton, and right now it’s unfortunately not golf season. 

If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?

I’m a retired pilot so I’d be back flying. I loved that. 

What’s your favorite thing about working as an Organizers Direct Dealer?

The best part is the quality of the products. They’re exceptional, and I know I can stand by it when I sell it to my customer.