After Decades-Long, Successful Careers in Education and Marketing, Couple Relishes Joining North America’s Top-Rated Mobile Flooring Brand

Published On: May 28th, 2024Categories: Featured, Floor Coverings International Franchise, Press Releases

This article was originally published in American Towns on May 23, 2024. (San Marcos, TX)-Sometimes it’s wise to take a detour when you can see what’s ahead of you. That’s essentially what the husband-and-wife team of Robert and Katie Sihler did en route to launching new careers as the owners of Floor Coverings International of the Texas Hill Country.

Robert, 53, had been in education for 31 years, primarily as a teacher and principal in middle and elementary schools. Katie, 49, spent 26 years as a marketing executive. While successful, both were ready for a change and felt that opportunities for growth in their respective careers were limited. They also wanted more control of their futures and in planning their path to retirement. “Those were the reasons we began to explore the possibility of becoming franchise owners,” Robert said.

After performing their due diligence, they narrowed their franchise options to two, and then one. “Ultimately, we chose FCI for two main reasons: because of home construction and population growth in our region, there is strong potential for a flooring business; and we were impressed with FCI’s professionalism, knowledge and commitment to the success of its franchisees,” Katie said. “Plus, there is the potential for this to become a family business since one of our children is excited about joining us.”

Floor Coverings International of the Texas Hill Country, which recently began operations, serves customers throughout Lockhart, Martindale, Maxwell, San Marcos, Driftwood, Canyon Lake, New Braunfels, Wimberley, Woodcreek, Fischer, Bulverde, Spring Branch, Blanco and Kendalia.

Robert and Katie bring complementary skill sets to their new careers with the No. 1 flooring franchise in North America. Robert said his experience connecting with different types of people and presenting information in ways that fit specific audiences will help him form strong relationships with clients. Katie said her marketing experience will help in lead generation and networking.

FCI offers a wide variety of flooring options, including carpet, hardwood, laminate, tile, engineered wood, and vinyl. The Design Associates at Floor Coverings International provide personalized assistance in making selections and the mobile showroom allows clients to see how different options will look with existing furniture, lighting, and paint colors all within the comfort of their home.

“Flooring products continue to become more sustainable and environmentally friendly through improved manufacturing processes,” Robert said. “If you haven’t shopped for flooring in the last 10 years, you will be amazed at how much it has improved.”

The big favorites throughout the system? Pet- and kid-friendly floors that clean up with one mopping and look like genuine wood. Favorites in the Texas Hill Country and San Marcos include:

  • Sustainable Materials: Homeowners are turning to laminate flooring crafted from eco-friendly materials such as recycled wood fibers.
  • Authentic Wood Look: The demand for realistic-looking wood floors continues to soar.
  • Waterproof Performance: Given recent erratic weather conditions everywhere, waterproof laminate floors are hot!
  • Vinyl Flooring: As technology advances, vinyl flooring gets close to natural wood and stone looks that are easily cleaned with a damp mop.
  • Carpet: There are still die-hard carpet lovers because of the feeling and look of cozy and warm –Not so much shag. Many more flat pile, textures and patterned looks are available.
  • Engineered Hardwood Flooring: This is the best in luxury flooring offering real wood veneers with remarkably high quality and detail.

Floor Coverings International has already revolutionized the market as it consistently ranks as the No.1 Mobile Flooring Franchise in North America by Entrepreneur magazine. The flooring industry is undergoing significant changes and innovations as consumers demand more quality, variety, and sustainability in their flooring choices.

The Sihlers couldn’t be more enthused about their new careers. And like any successful couple, they know what works best for two people who work and live together. “Communication and trust are essential,” Katie said. “It’s also imperative to delineate tasks and who will be responsible for various categories of the business.”

For more information about a consultation go to Floor Coverings International of the Texas Hill Country.