Bargain Bennies

Don't ask for Benny when you visit Bargain Bennies. Charlie Rhindress inherited the name when he bought the business 23 years ago. He has also embraced the promise it implies. "Everything is a good buy," he said, when asked if any particular item of bedding - mattresses and box springs - furniture or appliance was a steal. Prices aren't written in stone, either. " Drop in and see us," he said. If he can move on a price, he will. The prices may be bargains, but the goods aren't cheaply made. "We try to stay Canadian," said the owner. The family-run business carries brand names like Whirlpool, Inglis, GE and Moffat. They recently secured distribution rights to sell Frigidaire, too. The friendly retailer located a certified behind the counter: In 2010, the retailer sold more Springwell Chiropractic mattresses than any other shop in Cumberland County. That's not the only award. In 2009, they were named businesses of the year by the Chamber of Commerce. Bargain Bennies wants to provide value to customers, said Rhindress. " Service, quality products, pricing." He knows price is top-of-mind for customers, " with the economy the way it is today." To help take the big sting out of big ticket purchases like furniture, mattresses and box springs the shop is offering no tax on those items. he pointed out that when he advertises a sale, he makes sure he has "the stuff in stock." Works divides some families. Bargain Bennies brings Rhindress's family together. Wife Judy, Son Mark, and son-in-law Brian all work for the company. The customers are regulars, too. He figures about 70-per cent of his business is repeat over the past twenty-three years. He's on his third generation of patrons, he said. What motivates Rhidress after more than two decades in business? "Meeting the people," he said. "(the work) is interesting."