Celebrating nearly 50 years in business, Pryde’s hospitality is as important as its vast selection of kitchen tools and housewares.
Louise Meyers and her team at Pryde’s Kitchen and Necessities greet each guest with warmth—and an offer of coffee or tea. Hospitality is part of the draw at this kitchen and housewares retail shop. Founded in 1968 by Meyer’s parents, John and Connie Perucca, Pryde’s has been a destination in Kansas City for cutting-edge and classic culinary tools and kitchen supplies for nearly 50 years.
“My parents conceived of the idea for Pryde’s at the kitchen table,” Meyers said.
The store’s high level of customer service, expertise and personal interaction distinguishes this retail resource from online shopping experiences.
“You lose the human factor in the translation of being expedient about buying things,” Meyers said.
Known for its gift registry and complimentary gift-wrapping services, Pryde’s has served three generations of couples and customers.
“It’s a tradition in families to register wedding gifts at Pryde’s,” Meyers said. “We guide couples to choose solid basics that endure for a lifetime.”
To endure in an ever-changing retail landscape, Meyers said, “I would recommend buying a building, not leasing. You will be dollars ahead in the long term and have a salable asset in the future. Don’t saddle yourself with unmanageable debt. Bigger is not always better.”
Meyers also shared advice from retail mentor Vince Stonestreet, who said, “If it’s bought right, then it’s half-sold. Get the best value for your customer.”
