 In 1978, Kip Tindell (CEO and Chairman), Garrett Boone (Chairman Emeritus), and Architect John Mullen opened a retail store offering an exceptional and eclectic mix of products devoted to helping people simplify their lives. In doing so, they originated a completely new category of retailing, that of storage and organization. Initial cash capital was provided by Garrett, his father, and John Mullen, who were founding directors, officers and shareholders of the Company.
With a clear vision of the retail store they wanted to create and a first year start-up investment of only $35,000, the first challenge was to find products to sell. In 1978, most of the products The Container Store sold came from commercial or industrial manufacturers, and had never been sold in a retail environment. Kip and Garrett often had to persuade commercial manufacturers to supply them with retail merchandise. Mason's tool bags as overnight bags, egg baskets as carryalls and wire leaf burners as toy barrels were just a few of the original products that debuted in the 1,600 square foot store. The store outgrew its space within a year, and by 1980 had expanded twice. Eventually, the company's first store would have to move across the street to find room for an ever-increasing inventory.
Today, more than 30 years later, and with locations coast to coast, our stores average 25,000 square feet and showcase more than 10,000 innovative products to help customers save space and, ultimately, save them time. The store layout is divided into lifestyle sections marked with brightly colored banners such as Closet, Kitchen, Office and Laundry. Wherever you look in the store, there's always someone in a blue apron who's ready to help solve everything from the tiniest of storage problems to the most intimidating organizational challenges. Customers receive unparalleled service, along with fresh ideas and a very interactive shopping experience.
Career Opportunities
The Container Store is a great place to work. Discover for yourself why we landed at the top of FORTUNE magazine's list of "100 Best Companies to Work for in America" ten years in a row!
You’ll find products that inspire you, people who stimulate your creativity and an exceptional training program – all designed to empower you every day, in every way.
Most employees want to begin their careers in our stores, and many continue to build their careers in the stores for years, since that is the true lifeblood of The Container Store's business. Our store positions offer the best introduction to our products, service standards and company values. When a customer walks into any of our stores, they immediately sense the "air of excitement" that exemplifies the entire company and that is fostered by the spirit of our store employees.
From full-time positions to "mom and dad" shifts, The Container Store will work with an individual to match his or her career desires. Whether you work in a high-paced visual sales position merchandising the store, or as a salesperson creatively working with each customer, your experience is equally exciting. |
