By: Donna Duperron
Entering Sherwin-Williams I was welcomed by Gabriel Perales, Store Manager. He invited me to sit at a table which was located near the swatches of paint and stain samples. As we began talking, I noticed that this neatly organized store had a lot of foot traffic which consisted of painting contractors and individual purchasers. Those behind the counter, assisting customers, would often call them by their first name and carry on a brief conversation with them.
In speaking to Perales, I find the history of Sherwin-Williams to be fascinating. Henry Sherwin and Edward Williams founded the company in Cleveland, Ohio in 1866. In 1875, Sherwin-Williams started selling ready-mixed paint. Prior customers bought paint ingredients that they themselves would mix. In 1940, Sherwin-Williams introduced Kem-Tone, a water-based fast- drying interior paint.
The duo went on to shape an industry and create a global legacy of creativity, collaboration, and innovation. That legacy continues today with stores, distribution centers and facilities spanning the globe providing paints, coatings, and related products to customers all over the world.
“Our goal is to service new and existing customers by providing great customer service and to have the confidence we are offering durable, quality products. We are able to customize and tint colors as we really have an unlimited number of paints to select from. Customers are welcome to bring in color chips from competitors or chips from existing paint at their homes,” explained Perales.
In addition to their extended paint and stain varieties, Sherwin-Williams offers trim and ceiling paint, spackling paste and hole repair, drop cloths, rags, tape, brushes, rollers, and caulk.
“I have been a Sherwin-Williams employee for eight years. They provide opportunities and positions that have enabled me to grow, where coming to work doesn’t feel like work,” smiled Perales.
As I left Sherwin-Williams, I took a Project Checklist that they offer to customers. After all, it is time to begin spring cleaning. The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce thanks Sherwin-Williams for being a member of the organization. Sherwin Williams is located at 1731 Crenshaw Blvd, Torrance.
