Learn from History - American Business History Center

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Gary Hoover, Executive Director of American Business History Center, located in Flatonia, TX, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

The American Business History Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to teaching people about the lessons of business history. We aim to serve students and business leaders with our website and newsletters.

Tell us about yourself

I spent my career primarily in retailing, working on Wall Street, covering the industry then working for two big retail companies. Then I embarked on a life as a serial entrepreneur, founding the first chain of large bookstores, Bookstop, and the business information company Hoovers, along with friends. I try to find vacancies in the market and opportunities to serve.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Building a successful retail chain, Bookstop, which was acquired by Barnes & Noble, their first move into book superstores.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Keeping your spirits up in hard times and raising money for growth.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Be curious. Read everything you can get your hands on. Know your industry, and talk to everyone.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://americanbusinesshistory.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gary.hoover.77
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ghoover/

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.

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