Real service in a truly competitive environment

Support services can be maintained only by offering top-rated furniture and appliances at highly competitive prices

Island Furniture has been operating in St. John’s for more than 30 years. Although many customers are familiar with Island Furniture’s products, most are not aware of the history and vision of the company.

In 1979 the late Paul E. Walsh founded Island Furniture, a furniture manufacturing company employing developmentally disabled individuals. The objective of this newly established organization was to become a viable business entity creating “real jobs” for the developmentally disabled. Since its inception, Island Furniture has evolved from a manufacturing plant to a retail furniture store and has expanded to become the significant local business it is today. It helps meet the demand for a wide choice of furnishing products. Island Furniture continues the vision of the late Mr. Walsh and currently employs 10 developmentally disabed persons throughout all divisions of the company.

Since 2000, Island Furniture has dispersed in excess of $4 million to various Supported Employment Agencies, business and charitable organizations across Newfoundland and Labrador: in turn, the funding has provided in excess of 840 job placements for the developmentally disabled Province-wide.

Job placements give developmentally disabled individuals the opportunity to gain valuable exposure to the workplace, strengthen interpersonal skills and build self confidence. With the labour shortages Newfoundland and Labrador is facing today, it is an appropriate time for companies to introduce Supported Employment into their organizations.

At Island Furniture we believe that our employment model is beneficial for everyone involved; it is our goal to educate and challenge the business community to act now and see the potential in this type of employment model.

Comfort and style in a display at La-Z-Boy, Aberdeen Avenue, St. John’s.

Part view of one of the displays at Island Office Furniture, St. John’s.

A view of one of the displays at Island Furniture, Empire Avenue, St. John’s.

Above, the classy comfort of leather in a room display at La-Z-Boy.

Michael Power - showroom maintenance, Island Furniture, Empire Avenue. He has more than 30 years of service.

Bob Moores has given more than 30 years of service in the Warehouse Division of Island Furniture.

Photo, left-centre and at left, two glimpses of some of the terrific styles and colours in assorted pieces at Island Furniture’s Empire Avenue showroom. Below, At Your Service - Prompt deliv eries!