Pioneer TV, Appliance and Sleep Center, a cornerstone of Escanaba, Michigan, has been serving the community from its Ludington Street location for decades. Spanning approximately 14,000 square feet between 11th and 12th Streets, this established business, now managed by second-generation owners Dan DeRouin and Leah Murphy, has a fascinating history of adaptation and growth. Today, Pioneer Tv And Appliance is your trusted local source for sales, expert installation, reliable repairs, and responsible appliance recycling, but its roots trace back to a different industry altogether.
In 1974, Terry DeRouin and Larry Shanahan, Dan and Leah’s fathers respectively, established Pioneer Builders. Initially focused on home construction, Pioneer Builders adapted to the evolving needs of Escanaba when Harnischfeger Industries’ departure shifted the local economic landscape. Recognizing a gap in the market, Pioneer strategically pivoted its business model.
Dan DeRouin, now General Manager of Pioneer TV and Appliance, explains that the transition began with laundry solutions. “Laundry washers and dryers were brought in first,” he recounts, “followed by kitchen appliances.” This marked Pioneer’s entry into the appliance sector. The original store was located at 500 Ludington St., laying the foundation for future expansion.
Leah Murphy showcases a refrigerator's beverage center at Pioneer TV and Appliance in Escanaba.
The 1980s witnessed significant growth for Pioneer TV and Appliance. Terry DeRouin’s brother, Tim, joined the company, contributing to its diversification. “They added TVs, satellite dishes – all that kind of stuff throughout the ’80s,” Dan notes, reflecting on the era’s technological advancements and changing consumer demands.
The popularity of televisions surged in the 1990s, further solidifying Pioneer’s position in the market. However, as consumer trends continued to evolve, Pioneer TV and Appliance once again demonstrated its adaptability. Today, appliance sales constitute the majority of Pioneer’s business, followed closely by mattresses, highlighting their responsiveness to contemporary home needs.
Expanding into the sleep market with their dedicated sleep center was a bold move that paid off. This expansion now occupies the east side of Pioneer’s premises at 1112 Ludington Street, a space that once housed the entire Pioneer operation. This westward migration across Ludington Street reflects Pioneer’s consistent growth and increasing footprint in Escanaba.
In the 1990s, Pioneer TV and Appliance established itself on the 1000 block of Ludington Street. The current appliance showroom at 1116 Ludington, seamlessly connected to the sleep center, was previously occupied by the Ben Franklin variety store. When Ben Franklin closed its doors around the turn of the millennium, Pioneer seized the opportunity for expansion.
“We purchased this building because it was much larger and moved all the appliances over here and remodeled this store,” Dan explains, detailing the strategic acquisition of the 1116 Ludington location.
Following Larry Shanahan’s passing in 2004, Terry DeRouin assumed full leadership of the business. He continued to guide Pioneer until approximately 2015, at which point Dan DeRouin took over the daily operations. The business is currently in the process of transitioning ownership to Dan and Leah, ensuring the legacy of Pioneer TV and Appliance will continue under capable family leadership.
Pioneer TV and Appliance distinguishes itself from larger retailers by offering a wide array of brands. Leah Murphy emphasizes this advantage, stating it allows customers to “mix and match” and explore unique features from various manufacturers. She also advises customers to consider appliance colors carefully, noting the fleeting popularity of trends like “black stainless steel” and the enduring appeal and practicality of classic white appliances, especially for laundry rooms.
With 23 years of experience at Pioneer TV and Appliance, Leah has witnessed numerous innovations in home appliances. She highlights features like refrigerators with customizable color panels, integrated beverage centers, backlit displays, and convertible refrigerator/freezer compartments. A recent addition to the showroom floor is a GE 2-in-1 washer-dryer featuring ventless heat pump technology, a testament to Pioneer’s commitment to offering cutting-edge appliances. Dan notes this innovative GE product has been exceptionally well-received, with Pioneer experiencing strong sales since its introduction.
Reflecting on changes over her tenure, Leah observes that customer shopping habits have evolved more than appliance technology itself. Today’s customers often arrive with specific models in mind, sometimes limiting spontaneous browsing and in-depth discussions compared to previous generations.
Despite these shifts, Pioneer TV and Appliance remains dedicated to meeting customer needs and collaborating with other local businesses. Dan highlights their strong partnerships with contractors like Eagle Building, kitchen and cabinet specialists such as Schwalbach Kitchens and Perk’s Cabinetry, apartment complexes like West Highland and Meadowbrook, and community support organizations like St. Vincent de Paul, underscoring Pioneer’s integral role within the Escanaba community. Pioneer TV and Appliance continues to be a trusted name for quality appliances, expert service, and community commitment in Escanaba.
