By Ethan Ready

40 years of business

Art Knapps looking forward to next 40 years of business

Dec 12, 2019 | 4:58 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – On December 8, 1979, Jos Van Hages opened up the doors to the first Art Knapps in Prince George on Highway 97 south.

40 years later, the business continues to bloom as its roots grow deeper within the community.

Jos says there’s one simple word that’s brought them their success.

“Service. Service, service, service… that is really the goal right now. Staff is the most important thing in business. We have staff that’s been working for us for close to 20 years.”

He also adds that their customer service is also important, now more than ever with the growth of online shopping.

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“When a customer comes in, it’s important that they get approached. If a customer has a question, we should have an answer. And when we don’t have an answer, this day in age things are changing so fast, when you don’t have the right answer don’t just give them any answer… make sure, maybe not right now, maybe the next day, but give them the right answer.”

With a number of businesses closing up shop throughout the city, the Van Hage family believes it’s important for residents to support local businesses.

“Local businesses give back to your community. That’s something my dad instilled in all of us, you have to give back to the community that’s giving to you,” said Lucia Van Hage, General Manager at Art Knapps.

The hope is to pass down the business from generation to generation, further surviving the test of time as they look forward to another 40 years of business in Prince George.