TSO reporter Curt Cawley spots Nicola Ramanand, the brand manager for Courts, on the expansive and gleaming shop floor of Courts Constant Spring Road, spearheading arrangements for Thursday, September 19. The busy marketing executive stops to take a quick break to chat furniture shopping and the importance of preparedness…

What’s the genesis of the name Courts?

Courts takes its name from our founders, the British-born Courts brothers.

How long has the company been in the retail industry?

The Jamaican public has been welcoming us into their homes for 54 years. The company opened a flagship store in Cross Roads on May 15, 1959; this was the first Courts store outside the United Kingdom. The Cross Roads location remains one of our foundation stores and also serves as the chain’s corporate headquarters.

What keeps the chain interested in the business of home furnishing?

This is a very competitive business, where change is the only constant. As a result, we’ve had to be more dynamic and responsive to local and international trends as consumers are more aware and informed than ever before. It’s these said consumers that keep us dedicated, in delivering on our promise of offering complete home solutions at impressive price points and flexible credit terms, which is always paired with an exceptional shopping experience, if I do say so myself.

What lines do you carry?

Courts carries the world’s top brands in furniture, appliances and electronics – if it is an established or rising brand that, we believe, will appeal to our customers, then we will do all we can to make it available in our stores.

How would you describe the Courts customer?

The hard-working and equally loyal Courts customer is perennially in search of value and at the same time possesses a penchant for the finer things in life.

What can shoppers expect from Courts on Thursday, September 19, when The Jamaica Observer Takes Style Out?

TSO shoppers can expect wonderful credit deals for that day and the release of new inventory that is sure to grab the attention of that certain shopper looking for statement pieces to enchance their interiors.

What are some of the activities customers can look forward to on Thursday, September 19?

All our locations islandwide will be participating in the Jamaica Observer Takes Style Out festivities so that all of our customers can get access to the exciting deals. We will even have a special in-store event for our corporate area customers – but I won’t spoil that surprise! I would hasten to add that although we’re extending our opening hours at 19 of our 29 locations, there will be an extra treat for the early birds.

Share a few retail tips for Thursday, September 19.

Come out early and prepared to get first pick on our pieces and to shop on credit especially for TSO. Do remember to pack a form of national identification; proof of income, that is, two pay slips; proof of address, in the form of a utility bill; and two references, from a friend and family member, as this is the paperwork required for credit approval . If shoppers heed these tips, it will make their shopping experience as stress-free and simplified as possible and allow them to enjoy their new purchase sooner, rather than later.

What do you expect to be the major trend or must-have for Jamaica Observer Takes Style Out?

Colour is big right now! Look out for bright bold colours canvassing living room suites and occasional pieces this season. A pop of colour or pattern with accent pieces is also very on-trend. For our customers who are ever looking for ways to change the look and feel of a room with ease, then statement accents and accessories are the way to go. Think rugs, cushions, sculptures, vases and chairs that grab the eye or hold your interest.