Family-owned firm Lester Carpet boasts three generations
LESTER FAMILY, from left, Irma, Larry, Neal, Esther and granddaughters Sasha and Audrey.
When a customer went to Lester Carpet for a floor covering in a small area in his house, he was treated as if he were furnishing a castle. He is among the many satisfied clients who have been served by three generations of the Lester family, beginning with Larry Lester, founder of the carpet company in 1954.
Larry retired several years ago to turn the firm over to his son Neal, who recruited his wife Esther (in accounting) and sons Ryan and Jason plus son-in-law Samson Blackwell.
The 60-year-old firm serves the community from a sales office at 7815 Beverly Blvd.
At first Neal wasn’t sure he wanted to go into the family business, but it has proved to be a good choice. The corporate life, he said, is not for him. “I’ve been fortunate that my sons and son-in-law have joined the family business,” said Neal.
He is also proud that the installers are employees—”we don’t subcontract for this service.”
The firm also has a huge warehouse at 901 N. Gower St. with an
NEXT GENERATION, from left: Ryan, Samson and Jason.
inventory of rolls of discontinued products, specials, off goods, and seconds “at greatly reduced prices,” said Neal.
Trends in carpeting and floor coverings have changed over the years, and today’s popularity of wood floors has resulted in a higher demand for area rugs. Wool and other natural materials appeal to ecology-minded customers.
Lester Carpet handles both residential and commercial buildings including CBS Television, its neighbor across Beverly Blvd.
Category: People
