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Remodeler receives national recognition
POLAND
Duncan’s Bath and Kitchen Center has served the Poland community for nearly 60 years and has received national recognition within its industry.
The business, at 108 S. Main St., has been named one of America’s top remodelers for 2014 by Professional Remodeler Magazine. Duncan’s services include remodeling of baths, kitchens and basements as well as barrier-free remodeling, room additions and plumbing.
“It’s not an easy business,” said Tom Duncan, the owner.
The company was founded in 1956 by Tom’s father, Elmer Duncan, who discovered a need in the area for a kitchen and bath remodeler after focusing on plumbing and heating work for commercial and residential customers.
Tom joined the business in 1974 after receiving his associate degree in business management from Robert Morris College in Pennsylvania. Although Tom considered going back to school, his father had other plans for him.
“He said, ‘Nope, I need a plumber; get in the truck,’” Tom said, laughing.
Tom took over the business in 1987 with his dad retiring in 1989, and has run the business since then. His father moved to Florida near Vero Beach the following year.
The company employs 18 with many of them working for at least 15 years, Tom said.
“We pride ourselves in taking care of our employees,” he said. “The majority of the work is done by our own employees” instead of subcontractors.
Tom said what makes the business a success is customer service. Referrals are the primary driver in the amount of business received. The company’s plumbing background also gives it an edge.
“We’re proud of it,” he said.
The biggest challenge for the company is coordination with the amount of the work it receives, Tom added. Another challenge is dealing with the manufacturers’ defects that they check out at their warehouse.
“Little things make us better than the [other] companies in the area,” he said.