Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brad March, owner of Schwab's & Primo's, located in Windsor, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a full-service meat counter specializing in Italian sausage, but we make well over 25 various flavors and varieties. We are a family-owned business with my father and my brother, who handles my accounting. We stock everything from groceries to frozen goods, spices, and more. We love supporting local businesses selling things from perogies & pizzas to spices. Our customers come from all over Windsor & Essex, the love our staff and cleanliness of our store.
Tell us about yourself
Back in 2003, my father and I purchased a small Deli called Primo's Delicatessen; that store was very well known for its Italian sausage. We made three varieties Mild, Hot, and Liver sausage. As time went on, I developed many different varieties of sausages ranging from pork to chicken, turkey, and now venison. 2014 came along, and we found out Schwab's was for sale, and we made an agreement to purchase the store, and in August of 2014, we acquired Schwab's meats. The biggest reward I get from coming in every day is an opportunity to make someone's dinner amazing. I really pride myself on making sure my steaks are cut evenly end to end.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest was definitely purchasing the butcher shop, I had an opportunity to purchase one in 2002, but it fell through. I am also very proud of the increased sales of our AAA New York Strip steaks; When I first took over the shop, we barely sold one whole piece a day; now, we sell 3-4 strips a day.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing I find is finding time to do all that is required to be a business owner. It's hard for me to be on the phone all day trying to make deals and keep the counter full.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Find the right staff, Keep on top of your costs, and make sure you enjoy coming in every day.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://schwabsmeats.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schwabsmeats/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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