THE BEST HOME APPLIANCES SHARE THREE CHIEF VIRTUES: QUALITY, SIMPLICITY and reliability. Add to this that they are economical to use, easy to maintain and thoughtfully designed to enhance the look of any home.
Bob Bailey’s Appliance Co. covers all the bases. And then some. Established in 1962, the family-owned firm specializes in a wide array of appliances and installations for custom indoor and outdoor kitchens. Primarily serving industry professionals, contractors and designers across the entire North Georgia region, the company is run by third-generation owner Rob Bailey.
With more than 30 full-time dedicated staff, six installation crews, two showrooms in Stone Mountain and Winder, and a 35,000-square-foot warehouse, the company enjoys maximum flexibility in serving its customers in a timely fashion, offering the best appliance brands in the industry, such as Sub-Zero, Wolf and Miele.
“Our showrooms offer customers a wide selection of appliances in comfortable, interactive, accessible environments,” Bailey says. “Our showrooms allow us to showcase the latest products and help customers find exactly what they need. Supporting our operations, our local warehouse enables us to maintain an inventory of over 2,500 items and ensure prompt availability and efficient service.”
When Bailey’s grandfather, Robert “Bob” Bailey, an Army Air Corps bomber pilot during World War II, returned home to Georgia, he began working as a salesman at Bob Shelley T.V. & Appliance Co. on Peachtree Street, rising to the post of general manager. “He and my grandmother, Virginia, then made the decision to open their own appliance and television store in Decatur, which quickly became a beloved fixture in the community,” Bailey says. Their commitment to quality and service not only won an enviable reputation but brought modern conveniences to countless families in the city. “My grandfather’s unwavering resolve and work ethic left a lasting impression on our family, shaping not only the business but also the values that continue to guide us today.”
Bob Bailey’s son Robert “Lee” Bailey Jr. took over the business in 1969 after the former was diagnosed with cancer. Then a 19-year-old freshman at Furman University, Lee Bailey came home to lend support and eventually took over the family business, meanwhile attending night classes at Georgia State University to complete his degree in business administration.
Rob Bailey took the leadership reins in 2012. He had been involved in the company practically his entire life, though the appliance business was not the career he initially had in mind for himself. After graduating from the University of Georgia, he returned to the family business, imagining the reunion would be a temporary affair while he charted a career course. “Now, more than 30 years later, I realize that being a part of this business was the right choice,” he says. “We’re a true family business. My brother, sister and wife all work with me. And I’m proud that we continue to carry forward the special legacy my grandparents started. We no longer sell televisions, but the traditions and values they instilled in us continue to guide everything we do, making our business not just a workplace but a meaningful part of our lives and the community.”
Every day, customers ask the company staff two main questions: “What’s the best brand?” and “Are appliances built as well as they used to be?” The answer, says Bailey, isn’t always straightforward because choosing the right appliance depends on several factors: performance, durability, serviceability, space design and cost. “We’ve carefully partnered with industry-leading brands to ensure our customers get the best value across a wide range of price points,” he explains. “When evaluating brands, we look for those that consistently deliver quality components, invest heavily in research and development, and rigorously test their products before releasing them.”
As for the common belief that even the best of today’s appliances are not as durable as previous generations, Bailey offers candid clarification. “Modern appliances are more advanced than those from 20 years ago, largely due to stricter energy and environmental standards,” he says. “These regulations have driven improvements in efficiency and performance, such as better temperature control, enhanced lighting and quieter operation. However, some changes—coolant requirements for refrigerators—can affect durability and longevity.”
Although modern appliances offer desirable new features, such as remote app connectivity, smart communication between devices and customizable options, like different types of ice, there are trade-offs. “New features sometimes come at the expense of traditional robustness, so it’s important to weigh the benefits of innovation against the need for lasting reliability,” adds Bailey. “With newer brands entering the market all the time, we’re mindful about what we offer. A brand’s trustworthiness depends on where the product is manufactured, how long the company has been in business and the strength of its service network. Ultimately, we recommend brands that combine proven performance, durability, strong customer support and thoughtful innovation—criteria that help ensure you’re making a sound investment for your home.”
Bob Bailey’s Appliance Co. collaborates closely with industry professionals, contractors and designers who manage complete kitchen packages for both indoor and outdoor spaces, as well as individual homeowners seeking to replace a single appliance or an entire kitchen. What sets Bob Bailey’s apart is its reputation for expert guidance, personalized service and access to premium brands, ensuring each client receives tailored solutions for their kitchen needs.
“No matter the customer, our sales process is consultative, not transactional,” Bailey says. “We invest significant time in truly understanding each client’s unique needs, asking thoughtful questions and guiding them through the selection process to ensure they make the best choice for their home. Our team frequently spends hours working with customers to develop personalized solutions, which not only results in greater satisfaction but also fosters lasting relationships.”
To provide even greater peace of mind, the company offers a dedicated service concierge to assist in scheduling any service issues. Concierges are the point of contact, coordinating directly with manufacturers and authorized service providers, managing logistics to help clients stay informed every step of the way. “By combining personal accountability, clear communication and genuine care, we deliver a seamless, worry-free experience from purchase to installation and beyond. That is the difference you’ll notice, and the one we’re proud to provide for every customer we serve,” says Bailey.
In his first letter to the Decatur community in 1962, Bailey’s grandfather wrote: “We plan to offer you honest, ethical and neighborly support.”
Nothing has changed. “These words are more than a promise,” his grandson says. “They are the foundation of how we operate every day.” *
Bill Thompson covers the arts, books and design.
