The Gemaire Group, a Rheem® Air Conditioning Division wholesale distributor, celebrated the opening of its new Prostock® store with an open house on July 22, 2004, in Clearwater, Fla. The two-hour event was attended by HVAC contractors from throughout the Clearwater area. From 100 to 120 people were in attendance.

Vendors were also on hand to take a look at the new store. Representatives from RCD, Faxon, ICN, Malco, and others were present.

"The idea of the Prostock store is to make shopping for HVAC parts more user-friendly. We wanted to get the product out in the open and out from behind the counter," said Dustin Smith, branch manager.

"The concept is to provide a well-lit, modern, fully stocked, self-service parts and supply center catering to the professional HVAC contractor. I think we've done that."

Contractors attending the open house were welcomed by Gemaire's staff, and treated to catered food, which was provided by AAA Cooper Rep.

Smith, who also serves as store manager, is very encouraged with the direction the new Prostock store has taken the business. "It's taken us to a whole new level," he said. "The signage, the aisle banners, they really have helped contractors find what they're looking for. It's going to make a big difference to our business."

The Gemaire/Prostock store is located in Clearwater at 2050 Palmetto Street. It is open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Publication date: 09/06/2004