05/26/2026
🌟 A quick clarification for everyone who’s been following the Ashley HomeStore conversation… 🌟
There were a ton of comments on the last post, so here’s some helpful context about how these stores actually work — because it surprises a lot of people:
Ashley Furniture Industries does not run most Ashley HomeStores.
Across the country, almost all Ashley HomeStores are independently owned, licensed franchise locations. Only a very small number are operated directly by Ashley through a subsidiary called Ashley Global Retail, LLC.
👉 The new Ashley HomeStore coming to East Broad Street in Statesville will be one of those independently owned, licensed franchise stores — not a corporate Ashley Furniture Industries location.
Why does that matter?
Because it explains why you can walk into American Trade Furniture right here in Statesville and find the exact same Ashley‑made furniture often at better prices and with the kind of personal service you only get from a locally owned business.
And I’ll speak from experience:
I bought Ashley furniture from American Trade Furniture nine years ago, and it has held up beautifully. Quality is quality and you truly get what you pay for, no matter which storefront you buy it from.
Now, with all that said, here’s the part that’s good news for Statesville:
An empty building on East Broad Street getting new life is a win for the entire corridor.
A filled storefront means more activity, more foot traffic, more visibility for surrounding businesses, and a stronger retail presence overall. Empty buildings drag an area down, active businesses lift it up.
So as the new store gets closer to opening, remember:
Statesville already has a trusted, locally owned option, American Trade Furniture, that carries the same brands, offers great value, and keeps your dollars right here at home.
And now, an empty building on East Broad is being put back to work, which helps the whole community.
I’m reposting the mock‑up of the new Ashley store along with photos from American Trade Furniture so folks can see the comparison for themselves.
Growth is exciting, but supporting our local businesses is what keeps Statesville strong.
