River Cities Business Journal: Cover Story

Retirement closes appliance store; Kingman's only electronics specialty store ending 18-year run

Aaron Royster

Kingman Daily Miner

KINGMAN - Come this August, Hometown will be closing its doors with close to 18 years experience in the business.

Wade Stephens, who co-owns the business, said his father wants to retire and it seemed like a good opportunity for other family members to move on to other projects outside the electronics, appliances, bedding and furniture store.

The store, located at 1510 Stockton Hill Road, has already started the retirement sale of low- to high-end products. Stephens said they plan to sell everything in the store before they close.

“Kingman has been very good to us,” Stephens said. “We've had great relationships with our customers over the yearsŠ We will miss them.”

Stephens said they sent out a letter to everyone on their mailing list notifying them of the closure.

“People have been very appreciative,” Stephens said. “We've had a tremendous response.”

He added that people have been very understanding and have wished them well.

The family has a long history in the county. According to Stephens, they have been ranchers in Mohave County for more than four generations.

With his years of experience working at the store, Stephens has gained some knowledge about the products he sales.

As far as individuals interested in purchasing a big-screen television, Stephens recommends consumers consider key factors. First, one should consider what they are going to use the TV for.

Consumers should also consider the layout and constraints of the room the TV is going in to.

Stephens said one of the strengths of his business is that his employees are knowledgeable and usually can help customers find the best product for their situation.

Stephens said most of the employees at the store already have work lined up after the store closes.

He added that he is working with those who do not to help them find jobs.

Stephens also has advice for consumers on purchasing mattresses. He suggests individuals spend time actually lay on beds before purchasing them. It is also important for couples for both members to try out the bed and decide what they want.