All things possible
Pam Gifford was raised to be strong and independent, thanks to her mother. Although her family had a successful business in Bucks County, Pamela chose to carve her own path. She pursued accounting at Rider College, influenced by her mother’s advice, and later worked at a firm in Newtown, which she enjoyed.
Her life took a turn in 1990 when she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Determined to start a family, she became pregnant quickly. Meanwhile, her mother asked her to join the family business as an accountant and to computerize it. Pamela agreed and began working at Holland Floor Covering in 1994, just a month before giving birth to her daughter Emily. This marked the start of her journey within the family business.
Pamela has seen significant changes in the company since joining. The business, originally based in Holland, moved to Newtown and expanded by opening a second showroom in Wayne. The product line also grew to include a wide variety of floor coverings, such as tile, natural stone, hardwood, and high-quality carpets. The company is now considering branching out further into products like countertops to enhance its home improvement offerings.
Leadership within the company has evolved as well. Pamela and her brothers, Roger Sr. and David Jr., have transformed the business since their parents, Dave and Judy Hansbarger, founded it as Hansbarger Quality Carpets 50 years ago. Now, the third generation of the family, including Pamela’s daughter Sarah Alles, nephew Roger Hansbarger Jr., and Mike Miller, her brother’s son-in-law, are stepping in to take the company forward.
We’re hands-on owners,” says Pamela, the company’s CFO. “It can be challenging to work with family because everyone has different opinions and styles. Compromise is key. Some see me as the ‘enforcer’; because I like to get things moving. In a family business, you have to be willing to get your hands dirty.”
While Sarah joined the family business, Pamela’s other daughter, Emily, became an accountant like her mother. Pamela’s youngest son, Jacob, is preparing to attend the University of Colorado Boulder. Pamela hopes her example has influenced her children positively.
Since her MS diagnosis 33 years ago, Pamela has focused on maintaining a positive attitude and working hard. She is proud of Holland Floor Covering’s community involvement and hopes she has taught her children the importance of resilience and dedication.
Looking to the future, Pamela is optimistic about the company’s legacy. As she approaches 60, she doesn’t foresee retiring but wants to ensure the business continues thriving under the third generation. “I’m trying my hardest to make sure they’re all set; and so far, they have exceeded my expectations in every way.”
For more information about Holland Floor Covering, call 215-357-0909 or visit www.hollandfloor.com.