How This Corporate Finance Pro Leaped into the Flooring Business
This article was originally posted in Patch on February 20th, 2025. Brian Donegan, a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in corporate finance, has embarked on a new entrepreneurial journey as the owner of Floor Coverings International of Metro East Rochester. He is set to serve Rochester and its surrounding suburbs with premium, in-home flooring solutions.
After two decades in corporate finance, the Pittsford resident decided to take control of his professional life and build a business that would become a trusted and valued member of his community. Inspired by the people and culture at Floor Coverings International (FCI), Donegan found a franchise that aligned with his goals and provided a sense of community and support.
“I wanted to create something meaningful that would allow me to give back to the community while building a legacy for my family,” said Donegan. “Floor Coverings International’s innovative approach to flooring, combined with their strong franchise support system, made it the perfect fit for me.”
His decision to start this new venture coincided with a series of life-changing events. After 10 years of trying, Brian and his wife welcomed their first child, a newborn son, and added a new puppy to their family. “It’s been a whirlwind of joy and challenges,” Donegan shared. “But it’s also been incredibly motivating to build a business that will provide for my growing family and serve the community we love.”
One of the standout features of Floor Coverings International is its Mobile Showroom, which brings the flooring store directly to customers’ homes or businesses. This innovative approach eliminates the hassle of transporting heavy samples and allows homeowners to view over 3,000 flooring options in the comfort of their own space. “Our Mobile Showroom revolutionizes the way people shop for flooring,” Donegan explained. “Customers can see how different materials look next to their existing decor and lighting, making it easier to choose the perfect flooring for their needs.”
Donegan is excited about the latest trends in the flooring industry, including the surge in popularity of pet- and kid-friendly floors that combine durability with style. Some of the top favorites among customers include:
– Sustainable Materials: Laminate flooring made from eco-friendly, recycled wood fibers.
– Authentic Wood Look: Realistic wood floors that mimic the beauty of natural hardwood.
– Waterproof Performance: Waterproof laminate floors ideal for unpredictable weather conditions.
– Vinyl Flooring: Advanced vinyl options that closely resemble natural wood and stone.
– Carpet: Modern, flat-pile carpets with textured and patterned designs for a cozy, warm feel.
– Engineered Hardwood Flooring: Luxury flooring with real wood veneers for unmatched quality and detail.
In the next five years, he hopes to build a strong team and expand his business with multiple mobile showrooms serving the Rochester area. “My goal is to help my neighbors and fellow business community members transform their homes and workplaces into something truly breathtaking,” he said. Donegan is dedicated to ensuring that each client has a fantastic experience from start to finish. His commitment to quality, attention to detail, and personalized approach has already earned him a loyal clientele.
