The History

Peekay, Inc. was started in 1980 by Phyllis Heppenstall and her daughter, Kris Butt, with a $600 investment. Originally an in-home party plan program, the first retail store was opened in 1981. Since that time the company has grown to over 30 retail locations, a wholesale division, manufacturing division, and Internet division.

The company has over 175 employees, both part-time and full-time. Corporate headquarters and warehouse operations are located in Auburn, WA.

Founders

Phyllis Heppenstall: Owner, founder, entrepreneur and renowned public speaker, Phyllis founded the company as a Home Party Plan with a $600 investment in 1980. With little retail experience, this visionary created a profitable, multi-million dollar company which today includes 4 separate operating divisions.

Phyllis has played a large role in community involvement, specifically being instrumental in the formation of the BIA in Burien, WA as well as the site selection and design of a Park and Ride with King County. She served on the board for the Auburn Downtown Association and was the Legislative committee chairperson for the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, as well as serving as a Chamber Board member. In 1995 she was appointed to the newly formed Economic Development Council for the City of Burien. Phyllis was also asked to serve on the Green River Community College Foundation Board, an invitation she was happy to accept.

As an accomplished public speaker Phyllis has delivered lectures on a variety of topics to schools, businesses and other organizations.

Kris Butt: Kris was a natural fit to join her Mother in the formation and development of Peekay, Inc. Bringing a strong banking and financial background, her experience as an Assistant Manager with a Savings and Loan Association helped create a "balance" between the vision that Phyllis provided and the practical business considerations needed to achieve the goals. It's been a winning and successful combination from the outset.

Kris spearheaded the initiative to make Peekay, Inc. a well run business machine through strong financial management systems and the implementation of employee benefit packages and bonus programs, to reward employees for outstanding effort and achievement.