On the Bright Side: National magazine honors Drogen

ONEONTA _ Thanks to an article in a national trade magazine, business owners around the country have a better idea about what charges Drogen Electric Supply on River Street.

The Electrical Distributor, a magazine with a circulation of about 27,000, has an article in its August issue highlighting some of the successful businesses practices of the store, which is operated by its president, Arnie Drogen.

Freelance writer Mike DeFilippo highlighted the importance of the creative uses of promotions and community involvement in the success of the electrical supply business. Drogen has been at its current location since 2000. The related Drogen's Home Furnishings, a seller of such items as appliances, electronics and furniture, was one of the first retail businesses to have operated on Southside more than 30 years ago, Drogen said.

That fact was mentioned in the article, as well. The two grew from the electrical supply business started by Drogen's parents on Broad Street almost 60 years ago, he said.

"I enjoyed seeing the article," Drogen said. "It is affirmation we are doing things in a progressive and outstanding way to serve our customers and our community."

He has had a number of calls from magazine readers who said they were surprised to find out there was an electrical distributor in upstate New York.

DeFilippo said he became interested in writing about Drogen after coming across a profile this winter for an Earth Day event that was opened to the general public.

"Meeting Arnie Drogen was a treat," he said. "He not only takes care of his customers, but he is doing something for the community," he said.

Drogen said that when he chose to enter the family business in 1978, "It was probably the best decision I made in life."

He was pursuing a graduate degree in theatrical direction in California, he said. He uses those skills not only in designing promotions that use community assets, such as the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, but in all aspects of business.

Drogen, who was raised in Oneonta, said, "I feel very connected to this community."

Between the two Drogen's businesses, there are more than 70 employees working in 150,000 square feet, he said.

"We are strong promoters and marketers," he said. "We are very fortunate to have an outstanding staff," some who have been with the company for decades.

"When you have that kind of longevity (among staff), it is a great asset to any company," he added.

Manager Dale Bullock of Laurens said he will be celebrating his 30-year anniversary with the company on Oct. 28.

"One of the things I like about my job is that you are never bored," he said. "There is always something to do."

Warehouse manager Ken Mann of Goodyear Lake, who is also coming up on his 30th year, said, "I enjoy what I do."

Photos

Arnie Drogen, president of Drogen Electric Supply, straightens out a shelf of multi-colored circuit wire at his store on River Street in Oneonta on Tuesday. (Star photo by Brit Worgan)