It was in 1976 that Tony Madeiros, a local contract painter, purchased a small local stripping company and, with the help of his brother John, founded Bermuda Stripping and Refinishing.
After 40 years in the industry, Tony sat down with us to tell us how it feels to be in business for so many years and where he sees BS&R going in the future.
How does it feel to celebrate 40 years of business?
It’s certainly hasn’t felt like 40 years! Time has flown by, but I feel great and am ready for another 40 years.
How has BS&R grown? (staff, divisions, services, space, equipment, reach in BDA)
We first started as a Furniture Stripping and Refinishing business, and naturally progressed into antique restoration, spray finishing, and millwork fabrication. With new services offered, we have also had to increase our workspace.
Why did you decide to expand to the three divisions (T-Made, S&R, Antique)?
It was important for people to know the range of services we offered as the assumption was that we only worked with Antiques. We offer much more and had to reflect that.
What do you think has set BS&R apart from others in Bermuda?
Quality. Not that others don’t offer quality service and performance, it’s just that I personally wouldn’t take on work unless I was absolutely certain that I was the best person for the job. I’m confident that our customers appreciate that trait, and that they know they are getting a guaranteed level of work by coming to see us.
What is your favorite thing about this industry?
Learning. The amount of books, catalogues, magazines that I have collected on the woodworking industry is definitely taking up more space every year! It’s important to learn as much as you can in this industry, particularly technological advances. Machinery is also something that has always fascinated me, so I always look out for the latest tool.
What’s your next step with BS&R? What would you like to do or see more of in your shop?
Immediately, it’s important that we maintain the standard of work that we have set for ourselves. Moving forward I would personally like to acquire more machines to offer an even wider range of woodworking services.
Where do you see the industry going in the future?
More sustainable practices, and the integration of new techniques such as 3D printing. Automation is also moving rapidly overseas, particularly in larger commercial applications, but it may take a bit longer to reach some of the smaller businesses.