Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in sporting goods but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Allison Martinez, Co-Founder of Biker Bar & Cafe, located in Fair Oaks, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a local, family-owned bike shop serving the greater Sacramento area. We help riders of all styles and levels get the most enjoyment possible out of being on a bike. We are also opening a vegetarian cafe offering a small but beautiful menu, coffee, beer, and wine.
Tell us about yourself
Years of food service experience and a decade of following a plant-based lifestyle led me toward the big goal of opening a vegetarian cafe. While the cafe is not open yet (planning for summer 2023!) I'm happy to help the bike shop thrive in the meantime. My husband is a bike enthusiast, and our goal is to provide a place that supports the community's overall health with exercise and healthy, delicious food.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We opened our shop during and survived the pandemic and all the challenges that came with it. We've achieved a 5-star rating in the 2 years we've been open, and we continue to set goals for the future.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The work is constant. There's rarely a time that we aren't thinking or talking about the shop.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make sure your plans are VERY clear. A business plan requires estimation, of course, but make sure your vision of the business is CRYSTAL clear.
- Lockdown with more than enough capital to start because there will be expenses that you don't plan for.
- Make time for fun in the day, whatever that means for you. You will be a better business owner and serve your people better if you are relaxed and make time for play.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.bikerbarcafe.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bikerbarcafe/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bikerbarcafe/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/biker-bar-cafe/about/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.