Twenty-four years ago, Allen Jones wanted a refrigerator in his garage. He found such a great deal that he decided to sell it for a profit instead. As a former stock market professional, Jones saw a larger opportunity. He started buying discounted appliances from showrooms around Atlanta and selling them on eBay from his garage. Soon, his technical and business savvy, plus a love of cooking and talking to people, translated into an official business: NorthPoint Appliance. More than two decades later, this family-owned company has an 8,000-square-foot showroom and 20,000 square feet of warehouse space in Alpharetta.

“The business has gone from being online to mostly in person, which is the opposite of what everyone else has done,” Jones says. “Buying appliances online is so difficult and impersonal. We sell innovative, high-end appliances that people want to see and feel. They want to talk to someone who has knowledge about what they’re purchasing. My favorite thing to hear from a customer is, ‘Wow, I didn’t know that existed.’”

Walking into NorthPoint Appliance is like stepping into an appliance paradise. The showroom carries over 65 brands, covering everything from high-end luxury to reliable everyday options. If you’re in the market for high-end brands like Sub-Zero, Wolf, Cove, Miele or True Residential, NorthPoint has you covered. But don’t worry if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly—KitchenAid, Whirlpool, Frigidaire and Bosch are all part of its extensive lineup.

Jones is particularly enthusiastic about brands that align with his dedication to customer experience. “I love Sub-Zero Wolf because they have exceptional customer service and stand behind their warranties,” he says. “They’re a third-generation family-owned company with appliances made in America. They also own Cove, which is fantastic. Everything is tested thoroughly and comes with a two-year warranty.” Jones also mentions other brands, like Thermador for a contemporary touch and Bosch for its well-known dishwashers. “True Residential is also made in America,” he adds. “We even carry Scotsman ice machines because who doesn’t love nugget ice?”

One of the standout features of NorthPoint’s showroom is its live kitchen. Here, you can see the latest Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances in action and even get hands-on experience. “We use the live kitchen to host classes and give clients a chance to get familiar with their new appliances,” Jones says. It’s not just about showcasing products—it’s about making clients feel confident and excited about their purchases.

If you’re worried about being overwhelmed by a big-box environment, you’re in for a surprise. NorthPoint’s showroom is carefully designed to be inviting and relaxed. “You don’t have to have an appointment; you can just walk in,” Jones says. “I didn’t want a big corporate feel. You can chat with me or anyone on my team—they’re all knowledgeable and friendly. They’ve been in the industry for decades and are really good people.” The team’s extensive experience shines through in their approach to customer service. “We have amazing brand support,” Jones notes. “When a brand is willing to help, it means fewer problems and happier customers. If a manufacturer won’t support their product, we move on.”

NorthPoint also collaborates closely with designers and builders. “Designers can come in, meet their clients and use our live kitchen,” he says. “Some just drop by to hang out. We keep the showroom open and comfortable because we want it to be a space where people feel at home.”

One of the things that truly sets NorthPoint apart is its commitment to customer service long after the sale. “When people redo their kitchens, it’s a big investment and not something they do often. We’re not the type to just say, ‘Your kitchen’s done, see you later,’” he says. “You can always call us if you have a problem or need help. Big corporations don’t really care once they make the sale, but we do. We’re here for you through the entire process and beyond.”

Jones and his team are experts at navigating the complexities of installations. “There are so many people involved in a kitchen renovation, and we help customers navigate that sea of chaos,” he says. Their support ensures that clients get the right appliances for their lifestyles.

One of the joys of working with NorthPoint is discovering appliances you might not have known existed. “Steam ovens are super popular because they’re versatile and a healthy way to cook,” Jones says. “I had a customer who was a bit intimidated by the steam oven at first. She came to the showroom a few times, watched us use it and now she’s comfortable using it. We also had a customer who loves baking; she took a class, learned about the steam oven and bought one that night. She’s thrilled with it and bakes bread every day now.”

Appliance technology is advancing on pace with other industries. Today’s appliances blend style with smart tech to make cooking easier and more enjoyable. One of the hottest trends is the rise of smart appliances. Imagine a refrigerator that keeps track of what’s inside and even suggests recipes or an oven you can control from your smartphone. These gadgets are all about convenience and efficiency, making kitchen tasks a breeze. And then there’s the buzz around induction cooktops—they’re not just fast but also super precise and safe, heating up quickly and giving you control that’s hard to beat.

Another trend that’s catching on is multifunctional appliances. Steam ovens are versatile and cook food in a way that’s healthier and keeps flavors intact. Built-in coffee systems are becoming increasingly popular because they save counter space and deliver barista-quality coffee and tea right at home. These innovations aren’t just about saving space but also about adding a touch of modern elegance to the kitchen. With these trends, kitchens are not just functional spaces but stylish and smart areas that make cooking and entertaining a whole lot more enjoyable.

NorthPoint Appliance thrives on word-of-mouth recommendations, which is a testament to its exceptional service and loyal customer base. “Most of our business comes from referrals,” Jones says. “We have customers who have done four or five kitchens with us. Whatever you choose, we’re here to make you happy and support you every step of the way.”

In a world where many businesses focus solely on transactions, NorthPoint Appliance offers something unique: expertise, a personal touch and dedication to customer satisfaction. Allen Jones and his team have created a haven for those seeking high-quality appliances and a shopping experience that feels both intimate and professional. *

Robin Howard is a freelance writer in Charleston. See more of her work at robinhowardwrites.com.