Creve Coeur Camera Revenue and Competitors

Creve Coeur Camera was founded in 1974 in the St. Louis suburb of Creve Coeur. A small camera store had gone out of business, and customers had contacted the building owner, Ron Henges, for help in retrieving their photo finishing and repaired cameras. Mr. Henges was able to help them, and many customers recommended he re-open the store because the area really needed one. Due to the advent of easy-to-use 35mm cameras at that time, sales boomed and topped $1,000,000 in the second year of operation. The original store was moved and enlarged several times as business grew. The current flagship store in Creve Coeur consists of 9,000 feet of selling area, plus a full service lab and classroom consisting of 3,000 feet total. The first branch store was opened in 1980, and the first in-house one hour "mini lab" in 1983. The rapid growth of the company is due to three major factors: an exciting variety of products, regular and effective advertising and promotions, and most importantly, a serious commitment to customer service. In 1994, the company instituted an Employee Stock Ownership Program, whereby the qualified employees of the company earn shares every year based on company performance. In addition to being a great deal for the employees, ownership increases the dedication and efforts of all employees to satisfy the customer. Creve Coeur Camera is now owned by Stephen Weiss, who purchased the company in the Fall of 1998 and comes from an extensive retail and photography background. Mr. Weiss brings a lot of excitement to the company. He is truly invested in providing exceptional customer service, as well as seeing to the overall success of the company. Customers can count on continuing progress and innovations to bring them the best mix of customer service, quality production from our labs, and exciting products in our full line of merchandise.