Long before it became known as Nickel City, 212 S. Main Street was where Bill Royer joined the family business. His grandfather, Homer Royer, founded Standard Office Equipment in 1943. His father, Charles Royer, joined the company in 1949 after serving in the Marines, later becoming the company’s president and chairman of the board. By the time Bill started working there at the age of 11, there was already plenty to do—and he fondly remembers those early days, even if he has less fond memories of working until noon on Saturdays.
Those formative years are part of a Fort Worth story that now spans 83 years. Still family-owned and now operating under the name ROYER Commercial Interiors, the business is celebrating 45 years as a member of the Fort Worth Chamber.
As ROYER's Chief Operations Officer, Bill has witnessed the growth of both the city and the business. Today, the team assists clients across Fort Worth with their office workspaces through innovative furniture solutions, many of which have fostered relationships lasting for decades. Among these long-standing partnerships is Alcon Laboratories, which has evolved from a local client to an international account.
Past and recent projects have included spaces at TCU, Texas A&M, and Cook Children’s, as well as offices, banks, and municipal facilities. Whether clients know precisely what they are looking for or need some guidance, the ROYER team is ready to assist. Bill expresses his gratitude for the growth Fort Worth has experienced and the professional opportunities that have come with it, though when asked about the changes in the city, he smiles and gives a dry, “Too many people.”
The Royer family remains deeply involved in the business. Kelley Royer, Bill’s wife, is the majority owner, CEO, and chairman of the board. The woman-owned company recently celebrated the promotion of two longtime team members in 2026: Honor Rowe to president and Rachel Zorn to vice president of services. Together, ROYER’s female leadership team directs the Fort Worth and Dallas teams in meeting clients’ needs and continues to shape the ROYER brand known today.
While furniture and workplace practices have changed since 1943, ROYER’s core values—optimism, integrity, community, customers, and employees—have remained steadfast. Bill attributes the company’s longevity to these values, which have earned ROYER recognition from its manufacturing partners and fostered strong relationships that help the team deliver the right solutions for clients. ROYER has received "Best in Class" status from Haworth for multiple years.
Through its involvement with the Fort Worth Chamber, the team is grateful for the recognition and opportunities to support fellow local businesses. This involvement includes Charlie Royer, ROYER equity partner and principal at Panther FW Investments LLC, who previously served on the Chamber board. Having been in business since 1943, ROYER understands the value of having supportive neighbors.
For the Royer family, it’s a pleasure to continue doing business where it all began, all thanks to the employees, clients, and neighbors who have made this journey possible.