Who Owns Nebraska Furniture Mart?

• Parent Company: Berkshire Hathaway
• Ownership Type: Acquired
• Acquisition Year: 1983
• Company Type: Publicly Traded
• Stock Ticker: NYSE: BRK.A

• Founded: 1937
• Founders: Rose Blumkin
• Acquired by Berkshire Hathaway: 1983

• Founded: 1839
• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, USA
• Company Type: Publicly Traded
• Stock: NYSE: BRK.A
• Revenue: $44.49 billion operating earnings (FY2025)
• Employees: Approximately 380,000

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• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, USA
• Manufacturing / Operations: United States

Nebraska Furniture Mart operates under Berkshire Hathaway's comprehensive business philosophy while implementing specific sustainability and ethical initiatives appropriate for a furniture retail company. The franchise has established programs focused on responsible sourcing, product quality, customer service excellence, and community engagement that reflect both modern retail standards and the traditional values established by founder Rose Blumkin.

Responsible Sourcing and Supply Chain Management: Nebraska Furniture Mart has implemented comprehensive responsible sourcing practices across its supply chain, working with suppliers who share similar values regarding environmental impact, ethical labor standards, and product quality. The company prioritizes sourcing from manufacturers who demonstrate commitment to sustainable forestry practices, responsible material sourcing, and ethical manufacturing processes. This approach ensures that the furniture sold meets high quality standards while minimizing environmental impact.

Product Quality and Long-Term Value: Following Rose Blumkin's principle of "selling cheap and telling the truth," Nebraska Furniture Mart has maintained a commitment to offering products that provide genuine long-term value to customers. The company focuses on quality construction, durable materials, and honest product descriptions rather than following fast furniture trends. This approach reduces waste and encourages customers to invest in furniture that will last for decades rather than requiring frequent replacement.

Customer Service Excellence: In 2025, Nebraska Furniture Mart was recognized by Forbes as the #11 best customer service company in the United States and #1 in the home furnishing category. This recognition reflects the company's commitment to exceptional customer service, employee training, and customer satisfaction. The company has implemented comprehensive customer service programs including knowledgeable staff, transparent return policies, and after-sales support services.

Environmental Compliance and Resource Management: As part of Berkshire Hathaway's broader environmental initiatives, Nebraska Furniture Mart has implemented various environmental compliance measures including energy-efficient facilities, waste reduction programs, and sustainable packaging options. The company works to minimize its carbon footprint through efficient logistics, optimized delivery routes, and responsible warehouse management practices.

Community Engagement and Philanthropy: The Rose Blumkin Foundation and Nebraska Furniture Mart have maintained strong community engagement programs throughout the company's history. The company supports local community initiatives, educational programs, and charitable organizations across the communities where it operates. The Rose Blumkin Performing Arts Center in Omaha and support for the Omaha Jewish Community Center demonstrate the company's commitment to cultural and community enrichment.

Employee Welfare and Ethical Business Practices: Nebraska Furniture Mart maintains ethical workplace practices including fair compensation, professional development opportunities, and inclusive workplace policies. As part of Berkshire Hathaway, the company upholds high standards of corporate governance and ethical business practices while maintaining the family-oriented culture established by its founder.

Berkshire Hathaway Integration: As part of one of the world's largest conglomerates, Nebraska Furniture Mart benefits from Berkshire Hathaway's comprehensive sustainability reporting and ESG initiatives. The company participates in broader corporate sustainability efforts while maintaining its unique brand identity and customer-focused approach to furniture retail.

Transparent Business Practices: Nebraska Furniture Mart maintains transparency in its business practices, including clear pricing, honest product descriptions, and transparent return and warranty policies. This commitment to transparency reflects Rose Blumkin's founding principle of "telling the truth" and continues to be a cornerstone of the company's customer relationships.

Local Economic Impact: The company maintains strong connections to local communities through employment opportunities, local sourcing where possible, and support for local economic development initiatives. Nebraska Furniture Mart's presence in various communities contributes to local economic stability and job creation while maintaining its commitment to value and quality.

Nebraska Furniture Mart has achieved significant recognition throughout its history, particularly for customer service excellence, business growth, and its role as a pioneering furniture retailer. The franchise continues to build on its storied legacy while earning new accolades for both business performance and customer satisfaction.

Forbes Customer Service Excellence (2025): Nebraska Furniture Mart was ranked #11 in Forbes' list of best customer service companies in the United States and #1 specifically in the home furnishing category. This prestigious recognition reflects the company's commitment to exceptional customer service, knowledgeable staff, and customer satisfaction across all locations.

PRSA Nebraska Paper Anvil Award of Excellence (2025): The company received the Paper Anvil Award of Excellence in Influencer Marketing, acknowledging its innovative marketing approaches and effective use of influencer partnerships. This recognition highlights Nebraska Furniture Mart's ability to adapt to modern marketing channels while maintaining its traditional values.

Historical Growth Recognition: From its founding as a basement furniture store in 1937, Nebraska Furniture Mart has been recognized for its remarkable growth into America's largest indoor furniture store. This achievement, under Rose Blumkin's leadership and later under Berkshire Hathaway ownership, demonstrates the company's successful business model and market penetration.

Rose Blumkin Legacy Recognition: The Rose Blumkin Performing Arts Center in Omaha serves as a lasting tribute to the founder's commitment to community and culture. This recognition acknowledges Mrs. B's contributions to Omaha's cultural landscape and her role as a pioneering woman in American business.

Academic and Institutional Recognition: Rose Blumkin received honorary degrees from New York University and Creighton University, recognizing her contributions to business, entrepreneurship, and community leadership. These acknowledgments highlight her impact beyond retail and her status as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Berkshire Hathaway Integration Recognition: As part of Berkshire Hathaway's diverse portfolio, Nebraska Furniture Mart has been recognized for its successful integration into the conglomerate while maintaining its distinct brand identity and customer-focused approach. The company's ability to thrive within Berkshire Hathaway while preserving its core values demonstrates effective corporate integration.

Customer Satisfaction Awards: Nebraska Furniture Mart has received various customer satisfaction awards and recognitions from industry organizations and customer review platforms. These acknowledgments reflect the company's consistent focus on customer experience and service quality across all touchpoints.

Industry Leadership Recognition: The company has been recognized as a leader in the furniture retail industry for its innovative approaches to retail, customer service, and sustainable business practices. This leadership recognition acknowledges Nebraska Furniture Mart's role as an innovator in home furnishings retail.

Community Impact Awards: Nebraska Furniture Mart has received recognition for its positive impact on local communities through employment opportunities, community engagement, and charitable contributions. These awards acknowledge the company's role as a responsible corporate citizen in the communities it serves.

Longevity and Stability Recognition: The company has been recognized for its business longevity and stability, particularly its ability to maintain consistent performance and customer loyalty across multiple decades of economic cycles and retail industry changes.

Nebraska Furniture Mart has faced relatively few major controversies throughout its history, reflecting its focus on customer service, quality products, and ethical business practices. However, the company has navigated some challenges related to business transitions, competitive pressures, and the complex balance between traditional values and modern retail expectations.

Business Sale to Berkshire Hathaway (1983): The 1983 sale of a 90% stake to Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway for $60 million was initially viewed with some concern by long-time customers who feared the loss of the company's personal, family-owned character. However, the transition ultimately proved successful, with Berkshire Hathaway maintaining the company's core values while providing resources for continued growth and expansion.

Mrs. B's Competitive Response (1989): Shortly after retiring from Nebraska Furniture Mart, Rose Blumkin opened a competing store called "Mrs. B's Clearance and Factory Outlet" directly across the street from the original Furniture Mart. This competitive move created tension with the new ownership structure but demonstrated Mrs. B's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to serving value-conscious customers.

Berkshire Hathaway Acquisition (1992): When Warren Buffett acquired the competing Mrs. B's business in 1992, it resolved the competitive situation and consolidated Nebraska Furniture Mart under single ownership. This acquisition was handled diplomatically and maintained positive relationships while eliminating direct competition.

Retail Industry Challenges: Like all furniture retailers, Nebraska Furniture Mart has faced challenges related to changing consumer preferences, e-commerce competition, and supply chain disruptions. The company has navigated these challenges by maintaining its focus on quality, customer service, and value pricing rather than competing on price alone.

Supply Chain Management: The company has occasionally faced scrutiny regarding sourcing practices and supply chain ethics, particularly regarding furniture manufacturing and material sourcing. These challenges have been addressed through enhanced supplier vetting and improved transparency in sourcing practices.

Customer Service Complaint Resolution: While generally recognized for excellent customer service, Nebraska Furniture Mart has occasionally faced customer service complaints regarding delivery issues, product quality concerns, or return policy misunderstandings. These incidents have been resolved through improved processes and enhanced staff training.

Market Position and Competition: The company has faced pressure from both traditional furniture retailers and newer e-commerce competitors, requiring continuous adaptation of its business model and customer experience to maintain market position.

Economic Cycle Sensitivity: As a durable goods retailer, Nebraska Furniture Mart has faced challenges during economic downturns when consumer spending on furniture typically declines. The company has navigated these periods through value-focused marketing and customer retention strategies.

Employee Relations and Labor Practices: While generally maintaining good employee relations, the company has occasionally faced questions about labor practices, particularly during ownership transitions or organizational changes. These issues have been addressed through enhanced HR practices and improved employee engagement programs.

Environmental Impact Considerations: As a retailer of furniture and home goods, Nebraska Furniture Mart faces ongoing scrutiny regarding its environmental impact, particularly regarding product sourcing, packaging, and logistics. The company has implemented various environmental initiatives to address these concerns.