Massey’s Gets You Ready and Set to Go
May 20, 2008
by Steven Levine
Residents of New Orleans have new reason to step outside and hit the great outdoors: the newly opened Massey’s Professional Outfitters on Carrollton Avenue in Mid City.
Mike Massey, third-generation owner of the business, is proud to provide an exciting array of products and support services to an area that has not been traditionally conceived of as a thriving retail center. It is Massey’s goal to transform this concept by welcoming other retailers to join in serving this part of the city. Massey’s new outpost will provide a shopping experience with a local feel to a city characterized by local entrepreneurship.
Mike Massey’s father and grandfather opened the first Massey’s Outfitters in Metairie in 1972. The business was a success in the sporting goods world until the force of “big box” stores began to force prospects into question.
Facing challenging conditions, Massey’s was reinvented in 1991. A greater focus on outdoor activities allowed the store to grow into much more than a purveyor of sporting goods. The new design included providing goods related to anything from rollerblading to paddling. Additionally, the importance of approaching the distribution of these goods as a craft demanded a knowledgeable staff with actual experience in using the products offered. Therefore, Massey’s could be used as both a tool to purchase the equipment best suited for a specific adventure and as a depot to have the equipment set up and repaired.
Massey’s is the perfect place to bring a checklist for an upcoming excursion and feel confident that everything will be taken care of. While heat and humidity sweep over New Orleans constantly, Massey’s is stocked with things like ski and snowboard gear. This equipment is provided because the store aims to be an all-purpose outfitter for local residents. Many locals escape the heat to hit the slopes, which is why Massey’s includes inventory that may seem out of place for this part of the country.
The attention to the needs of local travelers doesn’t only apply to the ski community, by the way. Surfers and the like are taken into consideration as well. Any type of adventure a New Orleanian plans to engage in while traveling can be properly equipped right at home.
Some might wonder what edge a store like Massey’s has over its larger chain competitors. The answer to this question is obvious upon walking into the establishment. Energetic staff greets each guest with a genuine desire to share expertise in any needed area. Whereas those other stores treat goods as a mere commodity, with a “take it or leave it” attitude, Massey’s employees are eager to interact with guests and to provide quality service. Massey’s products are items that are used and loved by employees, creating a far more pleasurable and fruitful shopping experience.
Additionally, Massey’s inventory goes above and beyond what most stores carry. Patrons of the business know exactly where to go for any type of sporting or outdoor adventure related activity. Jitters about making the wrong product decision are eradicated by the incredible support services offered by the establishment. A customer can literally try out a canoe or kayak before making an official purchase. The ability to test a product out on Bayou St. John is the ultimate assurance that no unexpected glitches will ruin a beautiful day of adventure.
After a purchase is made, customers will also find superior support services and warranties. Mike Massey doesn’t want people to patronize his business simply because it is local. He understands that if he is not actually adding value to his products in some way, he can’t expect shoppers to keep showing their support. This type of consumer peace of mind is rare to find in large chains, but commonplace at Massey’s.
While the store is brand new, Massey’s on Carrollton is already doing very well. There has been a phenomenal response from both happy patrons and local organizations.
Mike Massey is committed to integrating his business into the community and maintaining a distinct local feel. Even the classic warehouse building that houses the new store was maintained to reflect the integrity and history of the area in which it is located.
And Mike is excited about the prospects that their location’s close proximity to the Lafitte Greenway offers. “The Lafitte Greenway will solidify Mid-City/City Park’s position as the recreational epicenter of New Orleans,” says Mike.
“It also creates a funnel for tourists wanting to explore deeper into the residential parts of the city, and a jumping off point for locals who want to head downtown. Our favorite part is that the city will enjoy the option of bicycle transport through numerous neighborhoods.”
Massey’s is the clear choice for sporting goods for any use. Residents of New Orleans are excited about the opportunity to experience the positive attitude of their city at the storefront.
Massey’s Professional Outfitters
508 N. Carrollton Ave.
New Orleans, LA 70119
Tel. (504) 648-0292
Open Mon - Sat 10:00 am - 7:-00 pm and Sun 12:00pm - 6:00pm