New management team begins at Blacker's Tuesday

Collin Cook

Tuesday will mark the beginning of a new era for Blacker’s Complete Home Furnishings in Idaho Falls and Blackfoot, as it will be the first day of business for the new executive management team of Connie Wood and Collin Cook.

Longtime Blacker’s employees, Wood and Cook have taken the reins from founder and owner Stan Cook, who has gone to Uruguay to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His departure was marked by a retirement celebration and sale that lasted nearly three months.

With more than 20 years' experience each, the two have learned the business from the ground up in every facet, from sales and delivery to buying and merchandising.

“Our goal throughout the retirement sale, and over the next couple of months, besides honoring Stan’s decision to retire, has been to eliminate old inventory and free up warehouse space,” Collin Cook said.

Connie Wood

“This will enable us to continue offering the name brands we’re known for, and to also focus on bringing new looks and innovative new products to the floor.”

Serving eastern Idaho and western Wyoming, Blacker's started more than 37 years ago in Blackfoot when Stan Cook purchased Walker Appliances. He expanded the lineup to include furniture, mattresses and home accessories.