The family-owned flooring company Giant Floor announced the passing of its founder, Peter A. Rubando, on January 12, 2026. Rubando, who founded the company in 1965, is remembered as a visionary leader whose commitment to service, product quality, and community helped establish the company's reputation over more than six decades of operation in Northeastern Pennsylvania. His leadership was marked by resilience, particularly during the aftermath of the 1972 Agnes Flood, when the company worked to help local families rebuild. From that experience emerged the company's enduring promise: "We will always be here to serve you."
Under Rubando's stewardship, Giant Floor expanded across Northeastern Pennsylvania while maintaining its independent, family-owned structure. He remained deeply involved in operations and credited employees as the driving force behind the company's growth. "Peter believed that a successful flooring business was built on trust, consistency, and showing up for customers long after the sale," said Giant Floor leadership. This people-first philosophy translated into business practices that prioritized lasting customer relationships over short-term gains, creating a sustainable model that withstood economic fluctuations and market changes.
In honor of Rubando's legacy, Giant Floor has introduced a new flooring product that reflects his commitment to durability, design, and long-term performance. The Stony Brook Carpet is a versatile residential solution designed to deliver lasting comfort, durability, and timeless style. The product features a balanced construction ideal for active households, offering dependable performance while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic suitable for a wide range of interior spaces. The introduction underscores Giant Floor's continued focus on curated product offerings that meet evolving customer needs while honoring the quality standards Rubando established.
"Peter believed innovation mattered only if it truly benefited the customer," the company noted. "Stony Brook reflects that belief by combining comfort, durability, and everyday practicality." This product launch represents more than just another flooring option; it embodies the founder's core business principles that have guided the company for generations. By creating products that prioritize genuine customer benefit over mere technological novelty, Giant Floor maintains the authentic approach that distinguished Rubando's leadership from competitors focused primarily on sales volume.
Beyond business, Rubando was respected for his generosity and community involvement. In 1984, he established the Andrew Rubando Scholarship at King's College, supporting higher education in the region. His influence extended well beyond the showroom, earning him recognition as a leader who understood the broader role independent retailers play in their communities. Today, Giant Floor offers comprehensive flooring solutions and maintains its commitment to helping customers create durable, functional spaces, continuing to operate under the values instilled by its founder. More information about the company's products and legacy can be found at https://giantfloor.com.
