By Aubrie Rounds | Marketing Coordinator, Flooring Depot of Panama City
In the competitive world of flooring, standing out requires more than just offering great products—it demands vision, perseverance, and a deep understanding of customer needs. Barry McEntire, the CEO and founder of Flooring Depot of Panama City, embodies these qualities. A seasoned entrepreneur with a journey that spans from north Georgia to the Florida Panhandle, Barry has navigated both challenges and victories along the way. In this exclusive interview, Barry shares the story of how Flooring Depot came to be, the vision that drives it forward, and the core values that set it apart in a competitive market.
Barry McEntire’s path to founding Flooring Depot is one of determination and adaptability. After selling his share of a successful flooring business in north Georgia—a company he had grown into a top 50 flooring retailer in the nation—Barry set his sights on a new venture in Panama City. “I found out about a flooring store for sale in Panama City and had an agreement in place to purchase it in the summer of 2018,” Barry recalls. However, when the deal fell through, he didn’t let that setback stop him. Instead, he pivoted and rented the building where Flooring Depot is currently located and started from scratch.
Barry’s motivation to start his own business was born out of a desire for greater autonomy and the belief that his ideas were limited in his earlier roles. “I started my own business in 2004 after having success on both the distribution and retail sides working for someone else,” he explains. His vision was to create a small, local retailer in Florida and enjoy semi-retirement. But fate had other plans. Just six weeks after opening Flooring Depot, Hurricane Michael struck, dramatically altering the trajectory of the business.
In the aftermath of the hurricane, Flooring Depot experienced rapid growth, expanding to more than 20 employees. Barry’s biggest concern became the possibility of layoffs once the post-storm business subsided. To prevent this, he devised a plan to diversify the company’s offerings. “We expanded from just doing residential to working on commercial projects, added a flooring supply store, and introduced cabinets, countertops, and other products and services,” Barry says. Today, Flooring Depot employs 40 diverse staff members, a testament to Barry’s strategic planning and commitment to his team.
At the heart of Flooring Depot’s success are its core values and the dedication of its team. Barry believes what sets his company apart from competitors is its large inventory, extensive showroom, and an experienced, professional staff. “We have more than $2 million in inventory and a staff that is honest, knowledgeable, and truly cares about our customers and our business,” he says.
The company’s product and service range are comprehensive, covering all types of flooring, cabinets, countertops, and light remodeling services, among others. Ensuring quality is a priority, and Barry has taken steps to maintain high standards. “We’ve hired quality control experts with years of flooring experience to oversee our jobs and ensure customer satisfaction,” he explains.
Looking to the future, Barry envisions expanding Flooring Depot’s presence in Panama City Beach and possibly opening more locations. The model of a large showroom and warehouse, which allows for direct bulk buying and offering customers the best value, is one he plans to replicate.
Despite the demands of running a successful business, Barry remains passionate about the flooring industry and the impact it has on his community. “I love what I do and the relationships I’ve built in this industry. I also take great pride in providing a quality workplace for our employees,” he shares.
Balancing work and personal life are something Barry credits to his wife, Shanna. “She keeps me grounded and ensures I maintain a work-life balance,” he says. The McEntire family homeschools their children, allowing for more family time, a priority that Barry cherishes.
When reflecting on his journey, Barry acknowledges the profound influence of his parents. “My mom taught me compassion and kindness, while my dad, who passed away in 2016, instilled in me the values of hard work, accountability, and doing things right the first time,” he says.
Barry McEntire’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a deep commitment to his community. Under his leadership, Flooring Depot has grown into a cornerstone of Panama City’s local economy, proving that with the right vision and values, anything is possible.
