StudentMarket.com, Inc.

CBK:

CBK was not an overnight success story. Founded in 1979, Robert Kirkland started his business by renting space over a bank in downtown Union City. He was told he could use whatever supplies were there, so he took a closet door off its hinges and laid it across two sawhorses that were stored there, cleaned up an old typewriter that had been left on the floor, and ordered a phone. He worked on one end of the makeshift desk while his secretary typed on the other end. It is said that he keeps this makeshift desk in his home today as a reminder of his roots. Mr. Kirkland retired in May of 2002 and sold CBK to Blyth, Inc.; a family of companies and the leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of candles, home fragrance products and accessories. In April 2004, CBK launched a fully interactive virtual showroom giving their customers the ability to shop 24/7. Shortly following that, CBK’s sales force became fully automated using laptop computers equipped with custom designed software that produces order copies with thumbnail images for the customer. In 2005, CBK introduced Casa Cristina Home Accessories through their exclusive license agreement with Cristina Saralegui. It was also in 2005 that CBK was honored to begin their work with ABC’s Extreme Makeover Home Edition through product donations for use in the home makeovers. CBK continued their support of the independent retailer in 2007 with the introduction of a customer loyalty program, Diamond Rewards. Diamond Rewards offers special benefits to loyal, repeat customers such as a priority customer service number, order discounts, early notification of new releases and sales, and many other benefits. A direct import program was also made available to retailers giving them the ability to buy product in larger quantities to earn volume savings. In 2008, CBK received C-TPAT certification insuring the integrity of their security practices and communicate and verify all security guidelines of its business partners within the supply chain. CBK also began monthly promotions, launched some of the largest product releases in the company’s history, and explored new product categories such as jewelry and music. CBK continues to make history with the launch of the exclusive Build-A-Bear® children’s accessory line and a new drop shipping program. Stay tuned for more exciting things that CBK has to offer! More on CBK...