Loconsolo Paints Company Profile

Background

Loconsolo Paints is a family-owned and operated chain of Benjamin Moore Paint and Decorating Centers, serving the New York City area for over 65 years. Founded in the 1950s by John and Jack Loconsolo, the company began as a paint contracting business before transitioning into retail to better source paint products and enhance competitiveness in the industry. Today, under the leadership of the fourth generation, including Jonathan Chiaro and his cousins Paul and Ralph Chiaro, Loconsolo Paints continues to provide quality products and responsive customer service.

Key Strategic Focus

Loconsolo Paints specializes in offering a comprehensive range of paint and decorating supplies, catering to both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts. As an authorized Benjamin Moore retailer, the company provides a wide selection of interior and exterior paints, primers, stains, and accessories. Their strategic focus includes:

Diverse Product Offerings: Stocking high-quality products from renowned brands such as Benjamin Moore, Fine Paints of Europe, and Modern Masters.

Customer-Centric Services: Providing in-store experts to assist customers, multilingual staff to serve diverse communities, and additional services like free delivery and discounted "oops" paints.

Community Engagement: Hiring employees from local communities to better understand and meet customer needs, reflecting the company's commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity.

Financials and Funding

Operating under the legal name Jack Loconsolo & Co. Inc., the company has been in business for approximately 72 years. It is estimated to generate annual revenues of around $2.2 million and employs approximately 14 people at its primary location. As a privately held, family-owned business, specific details regarding funding history and capital utilization are not publicly disclosed.

Pipeline Development

Loconsolo Paints continually expands its product lines and services to meet evolving customer demands. Recent developments include the opening of new retail locations, such as the Steinway Street store in Astoria, Queens, which commenced operations in September 2024. The company also offers specialized services like the Atelier, where customers can consult with professional designers to create personalized visions for their projects.

Technological Platform and Innovation

While Loconsolo Paints primarily focuses on traditional retail and customer service, it integrates modern technologies to enhance the customer experience:

AI Paint Finder: An online tool that assists customers in selecting the perfect paint colors for their projects.

In-House Design Consultation: Offering professional design services through their Atelier, providing access to over 1,000 wallcovering books and a variety of fabrics for drapery and upholstery.

Leadership Team

The leadership team at Loconsolo Paints comprises dedicated family members who have been instrumental in the company's growth and success:

Jonathan Chiaro: Serving as Executive Vice President, Jonathan has prioritized hiring practices that reflect the diverse communities the stores serve, enhancing customer service through cultural and linguistic inclusivity.

Paul D'Auria: Co-leads the company alongside Jonathan, focusing on expanding the business and maintaining high standards of customer service.

Ralph Chiaro: Manages the Williamsburg store, emphasizing community engagement and tailored customer experiences.

Leadership Changes

In April 2021, the company mourned the loss of its founder, John Loconsolo, who passed away at the age of 101. His passing marked the end of an era and the continuation of the family's commitment to the business under the leadership of the next generation.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The paint and decorating retail industry in New York City is competitive, with numerous independent retailers and large chains vying for market share. The market is characterized by a diverse customer base, including professional contractors, designers, and homeowners seeking quality products and personalized service.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the New York City paint retail market include:

Epstein's Paint Center: Located in Hell's Kitchen, this retailer has built strong relationships with the entertainment industry, supplying paints for various productions.

Rossi Paint Stores: Operating in New Jersey and New York City, Rossi Paint Stores offers a robust e-commerce platform, catering to a wide customer base with an extensive product range.

These competitors emphasize personalized service, diverse product offerings, and community engagement, similar to Loconsolo Paints' strategic focus.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Loconsolo Paints maintains a strong partnership with Benjamin Moore as an authorized retailer, ensuring access to high-quality products and exclusive offerings. Additionally, the company collaborates with various architectural coatings manufacturers, including Fine Paints of Europe and Modern Masters, to provide a comprehensive selection of products.

Operational Insights

Loconsolo Paints differentiates itself through:

Multilingual Staff: Employing staff who speak multiple languages to serve the diverse New York City population effectively.

Community-Centric Approach: Hiring employees from local communities to better understand and meet customer needs.

Comprehensive Services: Offering in-house design consultations, free delivery, and a wide range of products to cater to various customer requirements.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, Loconsolo Paints aims to:

Expand Retail Presence: Continue opening new locations in strategic areas to reach a broader customer base.

Enhance Digital Offerings: Invest in online tools and e-commerce capabilities to meet the growing demand for digital shopping experiences.

Strengthen Community Engagement: Deepen relationships with local communities through targeted hiring practices and community involvement initiatives.