ORI turns 80 this year.
We know, we don’t look a day over 40. (Must be all the ergonomic seating.)
It’s not just a milestone, it’s a moment to look back at how we got here and to look forward to where we’re headed. ORI’s story has never been just about furniture. It’s about people with bold ideas, communities that embraced us, clients who pushed us to think bigger, and the moments that shaped how we create spaces today.
From Then to Now
We began with the basics and the conviction that better spaces enable people to do their best work. Over the course of eight decades, we’ve seen the office evolve from rows of desks and filing cabinets to environments designed for connection, creativity, and collaboration. Today, we shape spaces that help businesses and organizations unlock the true potential of their workspaces. Every year, every project, and every client has been part of the climb from where we began to where we are today.
Grounded in Community
When we opened our doors in 1945, we started with two goals: deliver high-quality products and treat every customer like family.
Since the beginning, we’ve believed business should strengthen community. From supporting schools and healthcare initiatives to championing local charities, giving back has always been part of ORI’s DNA. That same spirit lives on today, whether through the ORI Foundation, rebuilding classrooms in Eastern Kentucky after flooding, or hosting holiday toy drives, crawfish boils, and some legendary Halloween costume contests. Community isn’t a side project for us, it’s the heart of who we are.
Carried by People
The real secret to ORI’s longevity? Our people. We’ve had team members here for decades and new faces who are already shaping what’s next. What unites them is a shared mindset: get it done, stay curious, and make every client feel like our only one. How we work has evolved, starting with office supplies back in 1945, we’re now a full partner for projects of any size and budget, offering furniture from 375+ vendors, architectural walls, and technology services. Our people have become true partners for our clients. We manage timelines, coordinate vendors, solve problems before they happen, and keep communication clear from quote to punchlist.
Evolving to Serve You Better
Over the past 80 years, we’ve gone from a small operation to a regional company with full-service teams in Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, Nashville, Huntsville, and Birmingham. Every expansion brought new challenges, new clients, and new chapters in our story.
As companies face new challenges in a rapidly changing world, whether it’s the shift to remote work, the importance of hybrid work environments, or the push for more sustainable practices, ORI continues to lead the way, providing cutting-edge solutions that not only meet the needs of today’s businesses but also prepare them for the future.
That’s why we’ve refreshed our brand, launched a new website, upgraded our project systems, and introduced tools that make planning, installation, and communication easier than ever. We’re ready for what’s next – because the workplace is always evolving, and so are we.
80 Stories for 80 Years
This anniversary isn’t just about us, it’s about you. To celebrate, we’re sharing 80 stories in 8 categories across our social channels throughout the year. Expect unforgettable installs, client shoutouts, and snapshots of the spaces that tell your stories.
Thank you for being part of the first 80. We’re just getting started.