By Patrick Kincaid, Vermont Country correspondent.
One of the attributes that gives a town that “small-town” or “hometown” feel is a family-owned business that seems to have been around forever. That is certainly true in Bennington with The Old Brick Furniture and Mattress Company.
Celebrating 40 years in Bennington, Vermont, The Old Brick began in a small brick warehouse as Bennington Furniture across from Henry’s Market on Main Street in 1987. It was founded by Denise Cyr, a strong woman who wanted to create something that would last for her family.
As a furniture sales representative for a major chain, Denise understood the importance of offering high-quality furniture at reasonable prices. She decided to open her own store—a place where people would feel welcome and comfortable from the moment they walked through the door.
She found a 300-square-foot warehouse on North Main Street in Bennington and knew it was exactly what she wanted. Starting with two to three employees, a one-year loan—which she successfully repaid within the allotted time—and furniture sold on consignment for C&D & Siegle, Denise Cyr set out to build a legacy.
Now, 40 years later, The Old Brick Furniture and Mattress Company is still going strong. Although it has long since outgrown its original 300-square-foot warehouse and was purchased by Denise’s son, Michael Fiacco, in 2012, it has retained that same “hometown, family-owned business” feel.
Now located at 1371 Harwood Hill Road, the current Bennington location was once home to Bennington Furniture. Michael purchased the building in the early 2020s and welcomed it into the Old Brick family. Although the building is a far cry from 300 square feet, the Bennington store is, oddly enough, currently the smallest of the Old Brick showrooms.
Today, The Old Brick Furniture and Mattress Company has locations in four states: Vermont, New York, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
Since its creation, many changes have taken place at The Old Brick. The original warehouse has evolved into a full clearance center, and the company has grown from a small business with two to three employees into a thriving chain employing approximately 300 people.
The current stores carry significantly more inventory, allowing for quicker deliveries, and Old Brick’s prices are 10% to 30% lower than many other furniture stores. However, even with this tremendous growth, Michael Fiacco still insists on keeping the business family-centered, where employees and customers alike feel like kin.
When asked what makes Old Brick stand out from other furniture stores, they were quick to point out:
“We have faster deliveries than most other stores because we have more furniture in stock, and we have an amazing delivery team. Many of our customers are second homeowners in the mountains, with furniture deliveries often requiring stairs, balconies, or other challenging access. Our hardworking in-house team ensures every delivery is handled safely, carefully, and on time.”
“We offer 0%, and many other financing plans are available for those who are not credit qualifying. There is an option for everybody.”
“We also offer much more than furniture, we do flooring and window treatments (with installation available), we offer almost every kind of accessory possible. If it is displayed in our showroom, it is most likely for sale. Basically, we offer high quality merchandise in every price range. There are many options to choose from.”
However, one of the biggest differences between Old Brick and many other furniture stores is its approach to customer service. When asked what makes Old Brick stand out from other furniture stores, Owner, Michael Fiacco and Bennington Showroom Manager, Brooke Pratt, were quick to point out:
“We have laid back sales people, not pushy whatsoever. They are happy to help if you want them, but they won’t make you feel pressured. Furniture shopping should be enjoyable, not stressful. Unlike many stores, we don’t believe in high-pressure sales tactics. Our team works together, not on commission, creating a friendly, no-pressure shopping experience where your needs come first. Take your time exploring our wide selection with zero pressure—we’re here to offer guidance, answer questions, and ensure you find exactly what you’re looking for, at your own pace. Shop comfortably, knowing your satisfaction is our priority.”
When asked what keeps the staff motivated, the answer came with a smirk and a twinkle in the eye:
“JoAnn has been working in furniture for 52 years and has been a part of Old Brick from the beginning, and she does not let us forget the importance of customer service. If the customer isn’t happy, she isn’t happy.”
After 40 years, The Old Brick Furniture and Mattress Company continues to build on the values that started it all: quality merchandise, fair prices, dedicated employees and exceptional customer service—all while maintaining the welcoming feel of a hometown, family-owned business.
Visit the Discount Barn at Old Brick
Check out the Discount Barn, located next to Old Brick in Bennington, Vermont. Visit them at 1371 Harwood Hill Road, Bennington, VT, or online at www.oldbrickfurniture.com.
