SAN FRANCISCO, CA -- Fireclay Tile, the leading U.S. sustainable manufacturer of custom ceramic and glass tile, announced the roll out of the industrys first direct-to-consumer online tile concept. By combining the best of consumer internet with world-class manufacturing in a truly vertically integrated company, Fireclay Tile has redefined the experience of purchasing tile. Tile is an inherently complicated buying experience -- the production source is rarely transparent, sampling is challenging, pricing is inconsistent, shipping is expensive, and final installation is always stressful. Fireclay Tile aims to tear down these challenges by creating a completely seamless online experience for purchasing tile. Fireclay Tile is heralding the idea that the old way of buying tile is obsolete; paving the way for a cutting-edge, fresh approach that combines personalized service and production, inspirational content, and a local, environmental conscience. Weve recognized an opportunity to collapse the walls that stand between the physical and virtual side of the tile business and set the standard for the entire industry and most important, our customers, said Eric Edelson, CEO of Fireclay Tile. Fireclays new online experience includes free samples and free shipping; simplified pricing, with colors and patterns easily found online and shoppable; online Make it Yours purchasing tool where you can pick your color, size and quantity, and it will be made for you in California in just a few short weeks; first-ever manufacturer sponsored Find a Local Installer program, linking customers with top-notch tile installers; and free Design Assistance, including online chat and tile design services. Even at 27 years old, Fireclay exhibits the energy, vigor and missionary zeal of a one year-old startup, said Deven Clemens, director of White Road Investments, who took part in a recent $2 million funding round for Fireclay Tile. The team has transitioned what many considered a slow-moving, established company into a platform to directly meet the changing ways that customers want to learn about and purchase high quality tile. Clemens and Fireclays other investors were attracted to Fireclays made in California manufacturing roots, its responsibility to the planet through use of recycled materials and the 85-person Fireclay team who all have an ownership stake in the company. This year is already off to a running start with sales up over 70%. Fireclay Tiles unique daily online visitors have increased over 45%, and sample orders are up over 375%. Fireclay Tile is also taking this opportunity to launch its newest sustainable offering -- CRT Glass Tile -- made from 100% recycled cathode ray tube (CRT) computer and television screens. This product was recently validated when Fireclay Tile raised 160% of its goal on Kickstarter, and it is now available to the public in the color Phosphor in three sleek sizes including penny rounds. Fireclay Tile recently opened its new San Francisco, CA showroom and Hhadquarters, accessible to the trade and public. This state-of-the-art showroom designed by VITAL Environment highlights every Fireclay Tile product, including its famous pattern and color walls.
Posted on: Thu, 17 Apr 2014 13:10:14 +0000