Promoting Better Beers

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Michael Roper, owner of Hopleaf Inc., located in Chicago, IL, USA.

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

The Hopleaf is a well-known mecca for fans of the best in American and global craft beer and an inspired food menu. Our customers are local regulars, destination visitors, tourists, and business travelers. We have been successful and growing for 30+ years. Were have a uniquely inviting atmosphere, great service, and a seasonal beer garden.

Tell us about yourself

I began working as a waiter in a bar/restaurant in Detroit more than 45 years ago and never looked back. I am motivated by my desire to make my customers happy every time they enter our doors. When they are happy, I'm happy.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I purchased a failing 60-seat bar and liquor store in a sleepy neighborhood in 1992 and built it into a community institution that was pivotal in making the surrounding neighborhood one with vitality and positive change. We took a dark and dreary, dead-end place and grew it to one that employs nearly 70 people that seats 235 people inside and 48 outside. In our best years, we ring 35 times what the previous business rang the year prior to our purchase.

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

The hardest thing now is finding and retaining top talent.

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

A new business must be well-capitalized. You must have a solid business plan that takes into account that things may not go as planned and that gives you the resources to ride out a slow start. You must find and retain the very best people and reward them generously. Build relationships with lenders, vendors, neighbors and neighboring businesses, customers, and local government, and be involved and charitable in the community. Grow slowly and organically, avoiding crushing debt. Be wary of taking on investors and partners.

It has never been more important to begin a business with a unique concept. Offer something really different, and be sure that what you offer fits with the location you choose.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://hopleafbar.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopleaf
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehopleaf/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thehopleaf

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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