The former Badcock Furniture & More building at 1590 Northside Drive East has a fresh new look and name, now home to Gibson McDonald Furniture Mattress and Appliance. The family-owned business, based in Blackshear, Georgia, quietly opened its doors at the start of November 2024, marking its 12th location and a significant milestone for the company that’s been in operation since 1934.
Brothers Mark and Rees Gibson are continuing the family tradition into its fourth generation. The company’s deep roots in Georgia now extend to Statesboro, a city with personal ties for Branham Gay, Gibson McDonald systems and marketing director.
“Statesboro holds a special place in our hearts,” Gay shared. Having grown up on his family farm in Jenkins County, Gay later attended Georgia Southern University, where he met his wife, Shelly, Rees Gibson's daughter and a fellow Eagle. With family and friends still calling Statesboro home, Gay expressed that opening the store feels like “coming home.”
When Badcock Furniture closed its doors, there was concern that Statesboro would lose a valuable, trusted furniture vendor. Gibson McDonald stepped in at just the right time, ensuring that the community wouldn't miss out on quality furniture, appliances, and dedicated service. The transition was seamless, not just in business operations but in preserving the relationships built over the years.
While the name on the sign has changed, familiar faces remain inside. Gibson McDonald was fortunate to have the entire Badcock staff join their team, ensuring continuity for customers. Leading the way is Judy Brown, who has managed the store for 23 years, along with the same sales team that Statesboro residents have trusted over the years.
Judy Brown, thrilled with the seamless transition between businesses, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving the community alongside her dedicated team. "We didn't miss a day of work,” Brown said. “They weren't interested in getting rid of employees at all.”
This stability has been a cornerstone of maintaining strong relationships with customers who rely on familiar faces and trusted service.
“All of the customers that come visit us will be greeted by the same familiar faces that they are used to when it was Badcock Home Furniture & More,” Gay noted. This seamless transition keeps the community connected while introducing the Gibson-McDonald brand.
One standout feature that Gibson McDonald brings to Statesboro is its in-house financing. Unlike larger chains, Gibson McDonald offers flexible financing backed by their own credit department, allowing them to work closely with customers and provide personalized support.
“It allows us to create strong, one-on-one relationships with our customers,” Gay said. “We pride ourselves on working with people, especially when times get tough.”
In fact, in-house financing is the cornerstone of Gibson McDonald's business model. It provides the company with the flexibility to offer customized financial solutions tailored to individual needs, helping customers access quality furniture, appliances, and electronics without the typical red tape. This approach fosters long-term relationships, as Gibson McDonald is able to support customers through various life circumstances, offering understanding and assistance beyond a simple transaction.
Gibson McDonald isn’t just another furniture store; it’s a company that prides itself on serving small towns and supporting local businesses. Their business model is rooted in community connections, valuing relationships over transactions. This philosophy has allowed them to thrive since 1934, growing alongside the communities they serve.
The product line remains similar to what customers were familiar with at Badcock, including a wide range of furniture, appliances, and electronics. However, the personal touch of a family-owned business sets Gibson McDonald apart, offering both familiarity and fresh opportunities for the community.
Mark Gibson, one of the owners, stated that they were "happy and excited to be here," reflecting the company’s enthusiasm about becoming part of the Statesboro community. Gay also highlighted the company’s interest in being part of the narrative that focuses not on businesses that closed in 2024, but on those that found new life.
