In this episode of The Power of Design Podcast, Jack Ossa welcomes Craig Dunn, Managing Partner at Carolina Office Solutions. Craig shares the story of how he started with a small idea and very limited resources, turning it into a company that has lasted for more than twenty-five years. His journey highlights resilience, persistence, and the importance of building meaningful business relationships.
Craig explains how Carolina Office Solutions began as a side hustle with just $150 and a single piece of office furniture. Over time, the company grew by focusing on affordable, repurposed, and sustainable furniture solutions for businesses in Charlotte and beyond. He shares stories of early struggles, customer challenges, and how perseverance and adaptability helped him keep the business alive through different economic cycles.
Craig demonstrates that success doesn’t require a perfect starting point. With minimal resources, commitment and discipline became the tools for steady growth.
He emphasizes how much of his business success comes from long-term relationships with clients, vendors, and team members, built on trust and service.
Craig recalls how market downturns and changing customer demands forced him to adapt quickly, proving that resilience is vital to long-term survival.
The company thrived by offering refurbished and repurposed furniture solutions that provided clients with both quality and affordability.
Craig makes it clear that business is not only about products but also about serving people, mentoring employees, and building a community connection.
Craig highlights that running a business for decades is about long-term commitment, not overnight success.
Financial struggles and operational challenges were not the end but turning points to improve and refine business strategies.
He underlines the importance of creating a positive company culture that inspires employees and delivers better results for clients.
The ability to adjust to new workplace trends and customer needs has been a constant factor in keeping the business relevant.
By focusing on repurposed office furniture, Carolina Office Solutions aligned with customer budgets and environmental responsibility.
Craig Dunn’s story illustrates that resilience, adaptability, and relationships are the true foundations of entrepreneurial success. From the first piece of office furniture purchased with $150 to leading Carolina Office Solutions for twenty-five years, his journey is a powerful example of what is possible when persistence meets purpose. For entrepreneurs, designers, and business leaders, this episode reinforces the message that success is not about avoiding challenges, but about facing them with creativity, resilience, and an unwavering focus on people.