Designed, cut, and polished in Buffalo, stainless steel " In The Buff 716" products including ornaments and magnets went into “Bed Bath and Beyond” stores last week.
“We live in a very proud community and we want to represent that the best we can,” said product designer, Alex Miller.
Miller and Mark Brice are the masterminds behind the merchandise.
We first introduced you to Miller about two years ago when he figured out a popular poster depicting Buffalo winters was actually an image of New York City. “I think I should know what snowfall and what street it is,” he remarked back in 2016.
He said "In the Buff 716" was born from that discovery. “I felt the need to take that situation and roll with it and replace the original image with my own.”
Today, "In the Buff 716" is sold in 10 Wegmans locations. Bed, Bath, and Beyond is just their latest accomplishment. "It took a lot of work, a lot of back and forth but they gave us a chance,” Brice said.
Eight products are being sold in 11 stores across New York. But, Brice said the goal is to expand the merchandise and sell products that appeal to customers across the country. “What works for us here in WNY isn't too farfetched to say it could easily work in another state,” he said. “Maybe we'll get a chance to go universally, and I think that door just opened for us,” added Miller.
Time will tell. For now, the two are celebrating this accomplishment and the city they love.