Trying to figure out what to get your loved ones for the Holiday is a daunting task in an of itself. Trying to find out WHERE to get it is another story. I've designed this post to help guide you through local businesses that can provide you with all the gifts you could possibly want!
Bob and Ron's Worldwide Stereo!
For almost three decades, Bob & Ron’s World Wide Stereo has been one of the nation's leading providers of emerging technologies, both cutting edge and practical in the consumer electronics arena. With a reputation for integrity and quality, World Wide Stereo has survived the test of time by offering personal service, award winning installations, and competitive pricing. An organization that finds its foundation in the credo, “ Doing well by doing good", World Wide Stereo continues to maintain this philosophy by giving back to the community and providing products that truly do bring families together. A full service custom creative design and installation team brings the finest Audio, Video, Home Theater and Home Integration products to reality. With two showrooms on Rt 309 in Montgomeryville and in the Ardmore plaza on the Main Line, Bob & Ron’s World Wide Stereo continues to exceed customer's expectations
Main Line Hobbies
Main line Hobbies bills themselves as the east coasts largest slot car store! Having brought my kids to the place I can attest to its size and selection. Truly a fun place to go for just spending the day (they have a huge open track that you can run your own cars on), or to take part in their Saturday races. The knowledge and experience in this place is enough to teach even the most experienced slot car racers about new products, building new cars, or even racing. For those wishing to get introduced into the world of slot car racing, or get their kids interested, this is truly the place you need to be. With a full selection of cars, tracks, parts, and even detail kits, you can't go wrong. Conveniently located on Hannah Ave in East Norriton.
Francesco and Giovanni Salon
For that special someone in your life. Whether it be your mom, your sister, your wife, or even your husband, Francesco and Giovanni offers something for all. Hair cuts and coloring are just the tip of the iceberg. F&G offer a huge selection of spa packages for both men and women. From Bridal packages, to the "Gentleman's Handshake", there's enough to choose from for all of the people on your list! During the Holiday Season, F&G is offering an additional $20 for every $100 in gift cards you buy. They also have a huge line of salon products to add to any stocking! Check them out!
Conshohocken Italian Bakery
Voted the #1 bakery in Philly, how can you go wrong by hitting this place up for Holiday eats? The best rolls, tomato pie, Italian baked goods, cookies, pastries, etc... I almost feel stupid including this in here because you MUST already know about this place! Truly a treasure for those who live in the area!
Chiccarines Fine Jewelery and Diamonds
When I asked about Jewelers in Montgomery County, I kept hearing about this place. Service, quality and customer satisfaction are #1 and it's evident throughout the community. Located in Collegeville, Chiccarines takes special care in helping customers choose the right piece of jewelry and for the right price. They want you as their customer forever, and they go out of their way to make you feel like family.
Tailwind Bicycles
Way up in Schwenksville, the staff at Tailwind can help you with all of your questions. Located on the Perkiomen Trail, Tailwind specializes in mountain bikes and road bikes. With over 300 bikes in stock, they will certainly have no shortage of models from the beginning rider to the most experienced. They can service anyone and everyone, from children's bikes to high end road bikes. They also offer lessons, rentals and gift certificates for the riding enthusiast in your life! Check out the site for everything they offer!
Check back tomorrow for more local businesses and gift ideas!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Rabu, 24 November 2010
Here's wishing a very Happy and Safe Thanksgiving to all of you out there. This is truly one of my favorite holidays.
I've been working on a post the last few weeks. I've had discussions with some pretty smart people. Professors, Finance folk, and just some pretty brainy people. The conversations centered around the economy.
The question I am asking is what has more impact on the other... The global economy on the local, or the local economy on the Global?
Arguments could be made for either, but what I am finding out is that the answer is more important (and complicated) than you think.
I will also be spreading the word this entire month about where you can go to do your Holiday shopping LOCALLY! If you don't already know, there are some pretty cool places to go find the perfect present for your loved ones! Everything from electronics to clothes!
I've been working on a post the last few weeks. I've had discussions with some pretty smart people. Professors, Finance folk, and just some pretty brainy people. The conversations centered around the economy.
The question I am asking is what has more impact on the other... The global economy on the local, or the local economy on the Global?
Arguments could be made for either, but what I am finding out is that the answer is more important (and complicated) than you think.
I will also be spreading the word this entire month about where you can go to do your Holiday shopping LOCALLY! If you don't already know, there are some pretty cool places to go find the perfect present for your loved ones! Everything from electronics to clothes!
It's the process man!
Sabtu, 13 November 2010
I've written about this before and probably will again, but it never ceases to amaze me... that is the power of an idea with a dose of passion, a smidgen of ambition and the right approach to defining and achieving their goals.
When someone gets an idea in their head, and really focuses on the possibilities, the outcome only becomes dependent on effort. The freedoms we have within this country make the success of these ideas possible. Not the success, but the ability to achieve that success. But why are some successful and some aren't? It's the process put in place to achieve the end game.
In my travels this past week, I ran into 4 specific people from my past. All had spent years embarking on a journey to see their ideas come to a realization. In all cases they were ideas turned into business opportunities. One was a product, two were a service, and the 4th was based on delivering content to the masses. What they are isn't important. What is important is the approach they all took to achieve their goals.
In all cases strategies where defined, objectives where stated, and tactics where implemented to realize their goals surrounding their IDEA. The highlighted statement is what all four spoke about WITHOUT using those specific words.
It's a process that is utilized everyday by the most successful businesses/companies/people. It's a process that gives the idea the most chance at success. In fact if you can define each one, the only way you fail is if you don't do the work. It's what separates the successful from the ones that never really achieve full potential.
It simplifies the complex to allow results in the most efficient manner. It's what I see everyday in local business. It's how they win. It's how they are successful, proven time and time again.
When an idea, goal or initiative is approached in this manner, success is easier achieved. More importantly, success is more clearly defined and measured as well. It also allows you, or makes you think smarter about your business enabling you to take your idea further, or on a larger track if so desired.
That process isn't only relegated to the business world either. You can and should use it in everyday life. Let's look at an example...
Two different families think about taking the family to Disney World next year. Both need to save for it because neither will have the disposable income come next fall.
One family marks it on the calendar and says "We think we can make this happen, we'll discuss it after the holidays". The other starts the process.
IDEA: We want to take the family to Disneyland next fall.
Objective: Have enough money and time to be able to do so
Strategy: Cut expenses, earn more money
tactics: Less eating out, smaller birthday parties for the kids, get a part time job, have a garage sale, sell other things on ebay/ craigslist/ classified ads, smaller Christmas this year
Which family do you think has the better chance of getting to Disney world next fall? The family that started the process is almost halfway there. They still have questions to ask, such as how much will the trip actually cost, what options are available, how long can they go, how much will they have to save/ earn/ etc, to make it happen. But the process has been started, and they are building a road map to achieve a stated goal.
Now, nothing gets done without doing the work. The process however, defines the work that is needed. It doesn't create unnecessary work, rather it clearly defines the work that is needed to achieve your goals.
The best small businesses utilize this process everyday. Whether they want to expand, add a product line, build a larger building, add more employees, whatever. The process allows them to do it intelligently and do it smarter.
If you have an idea (I don't know anyone who hasn't spoken about something they wanted to do as a business), start to think about it in this way. You'll be amazed how real it becomes.
When someone gets an idea in their head, and really focuses on the possibilities, the outcome only becomes dependent on effort. The freedoms we have within this country make the success of these ideas possible. Not the success, but the ability to achieve that success. But why are some successful and some aren't? It's the process put in place to achieve the end game.
In my travels this past week, I ran into 4 specific people from my past. All had spent years embarking on a journey to see their ideas come to a realization. In all cases they were ideas turned into business opportunities. One was a product, two were a service, and the 4th was based on delivering content to the masses. What they are isn't important. What is important is the approach they all took to achieve their goals.
In all cases strategies where defined, objectives where stated, and tactics where implemented to realize their goals surrounding their IDEA. The highlighted statement is what all four spoke about WITHOUT using those specific words.
It's a process that is utilized everyday by the most successful businesses/companies/people. It's a process that gives the idea the most chance at success. In fact if you can define each one, the only way you fail is if you don't do the work. It's what separates the successful from the ones that never really achieve full potential.
It simplifies the complex to allow results in the most efficient manner. It's what I see everyday in local business. It's how they win. It's how they are successful, proven time and time again.
When an idea, goal or initiative is approached in this manner, success is easier achieved. More importantly, success is more clearly defined and measured as well. It also allows you, or makes you think smarter about your business enabling you to take your idea further, or on a larger track if so desired.
That process isn't only relegated to the business world either. You can and should use it in everyday life. Let's look at an example...
Two different families think about taking the family to Disney World next year. Both need to save for it because neither will have the disposable income come next fall.
One family marks it on the calendar and says "We think we can make this happen, we'll discuss it after the holidays". The other starts the process.
IDEA: We want to take the family to Disneyland next fall.
Objective: Have enough money and time to be able to do so
Strategy: Cut expenses, earn more money
tactics: Less eating out, smaller birthday parties for the kids, get a part time job, have a garage sale, sell other things on ebay/ craigslist/ classified ads, smaller Christmas this year
Which family do you think has the better chance of getting to Disney world next fall? The family that started the process is almost halfway there. They still have questions to ask, such as how much will the trip actually cost, what options are available, how long can they go, how much will they have to save/ earn/ etc, to make it happen. But the process has been started, and they are building a road map to achieve a stated goal.
Now, nothing gets done without doing the work. The process however, defines the work that is needed. It doesn't create unnecessary work, rather it clearly defines the work that is needed to achieve your goals.
The best small businesses utilize this process everyday. Whether they want to expand, add a product line, build a larger building, add more employees, whatever. The process allows them to do it intelligently and do it smarter.
If you have an idea (I don't know anyone who hasn't spoken about something they wanted to do as a business), start to think about it in this way. You'll be amazed how real it becomes.
Conshy Has a New Gig!
Kamis, 04 November 2010Conshy has a new venue for all you bar hoppers out there! Actually, that statement is pretty unfair to the new place that opened last Friday. It's more than just a "bar". I think it will redefine Conshy and it's night life.
8 East opened up in the same spot that E.Y. Toads use to occupy. Let me tell you... it's no Toad's.
Bob Storti and Brad Craig figured at some point in their life they would like to open a restaurant/ bar and provide a hip and fun place for the local community. I can tell you personally that Conshy has never seen anything like this. It's certainly not the standard fair that has occupied Conshy in the past.
After 4 years of work and more than $500, 000 in renovations, Bob and Brad have realized their dream. I was at opening night on Friday and the place was a madhouse. With two bars and two dining areas (one each, both upstairs and one downstairs) the place is Bangin'! Seriously, look at the pics below.
The menu is fantastic and more than reasonable. I had the Black and Bleu sliders and were unbelievable. The bar is stocked with top shelf liquors and a multitude of beers as well.
"We really wanted a very modern and hip place for people to come out and enjoy. We worked really hard to make it exactly as we envisioned it.", said Bob Storti.
The pride these guys took is evident in the design and construction of the entire place. In fact, the work was done solely by the partners. Having a background in contracting helps, and being someone who used to go to Toads every so often, I can tell you that the work they did is really unbelievable. Make plans to go to this place. You won't be disappointed!
Andrew Davis, a frequent Conshy visitor from Manayunk said, "Seriously, we've been waiting for a place like this to open in Conshy. It's really nice, in a great location, and rivals a city bar in it's atmosphere and design."
I spoke to several patrons there and all were more than satisfied. It's been a long time coming, and now you can finally experience it yourself!
Catalyst Marketers... Innovation at its best
Selasa, 28 September 2010
One of the most granular questions about starting a business is what value does the product or service offering you are selling bring to the market place? What is it about that product or service that will stand out above your competitors?
Ryan Taft, founder of Catalyst Marketers in Chalfont, PA asked himself that question before starting his company.
"I had a really big desire to show local and small business how to take advantage of technology and new media to help grow their business", said Ryan.
With the emergence of social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and FourSquare, businesses really have the ability to gain more advertising for virtually no cost, that may have cost thousands of dollars in the past utilizing more traditional methods.
In fact, they've become so popular, that if your company isn't utilizing these tools, you're way behind the curve, and allowing your competitors to get out ahead of you. Of course, as a small business owner, when you finally decide to sit down and research all of the possibilities, it gets a little frightening. How are you going to learn to do this? Who are you going to get to continue providing content, update status' and constantly tweet?
This is exactly where Catalyst comes in. Ryan started Catalyst Marketers to help small & mid-sized businesses use Social Media and other online marketing tools to reach more customers and prospects, build relationships with those folks, and ultimately drive sales.
Currently Catalyst Clients range from Central Bucks Family YMCA in Doylestown, to National Retail Products producers, and even a slew of auto dealerships. Catalyst Clients outsource their online marketing efforts to Catalyst Marketers. A team of experts in all forms of online marketing, which were brought together to form a virtual partnership that is Catalyst Marketers, help clients build their Online Marketing Plan, as well as, execute their online marketing tactics.
For example, Catalyst Marketers writes blog articles, manages foursquare, Facebook, Twitter, & Flickr, and develops a monthly eNewsletter for Central Bucks Family YMCA. Instead of hiring a team of Marketing employees, which come with salaries, benefits, & tax expenses, the Y outsources this work to Catalyst. The secret to Catalyst's success is that they integrate themselves with each & every client, which makes clients feel like they are part of the internal team. This allows the relationship to thrive.
Most of the online tools out there are 100% free. It simply takes time to learn what tools are out there and available to you, as well as, time to create a plan for using those tools effectively for your business. Business owners who lack the time to do it themselves can find strategic partners like Catalyst Marketers to help them with their Online Marketing efforts.
The coolest thing for me about Catalyst? It's a local business. Check them out. You're business can't wait!
Ryan Taft, founder of Catalyst Marketers in Chalfont, PA asked himself that question before starting his company.
"I had a really big desire to show local and small business how to take advantage of technology and new media to help grow their business", said Ryan.
With the emergence of social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and FourSquare, businesses really have the ability to gain more advertising for virtually no cost, that may have cost thousands of dollars in the past utilizing more traditional methods.
In fact, they've become so popular, that if your company isn't utilizing these tools, you're way behind the curve, and allowing your competitors to get out ahead of you. Of course, as a small business owner, when you finally decide to sit down and research all of the possibilities, it gets a little frightening. How are you going to learn to do this? Who are you going to get to continue providing content, update status' and constantly tweet?
This is exactly where Catalyst comes in. Ryan started Catalyst Marketers to help small & mid-sized businesses use Social Media and other online marketing tools to reach more customers and prospects, build relationships with those folks, and ultimately drive sales.
Currently Catalyst Clients range from Central Bucks Family YMCA in Doylestown, to National Retail Products producers, and even a slew of auto dealerships. Catalyst Clients outsource their online marketing efforts to Catalyst Marketers. A team of experts in all forms of online marketing, which were brought together to form a virtual partnership that is Catalyst Marketers, help clients build their Online Marketing Plan, as well as, execute their online marketing tactics.
For example, Catalyst Marketers writes blog articles, manages foursquare, Facebook, Twitter, & Flickr, and develops a monthly eNewsletter for Central Bucks Family YMCA. Instead of hiring a team of Marketing employees, which come with salaries, benefits, & tax expenses, the Y outsources this work to Catalyst. The secret to Catalyst's success is that they integrate themselves with each & every client, which makes clients feel like they are part of the internal team. This allows the relationship to thrive.
Most of the online tools out there are 100% free. It simply takes time to learn what tools are out there and available to you, as well as, time to create a plan for using those tools effectively for your business. Business owners who lack the time to do it themselves can find strategic partners like Catalyst Marketers to help them with their Online Marketing efforts.
The coolest thing for me about Catalyst? It's a local business. Check them out. You're business can't wait!
Best of 2010!
Selasa, 14 September 2010
Every year the Times Herald publishes a "Best of Montco" list that highlights those local businesses and institutions that are voted best by their staff, the community, and polls that are offered in the paper every so often throughout the year.
You can see the article here.
You can see the complete list here.
Everything from the best attorneys to the best electricians to the best bars are on this list.
It is a great resource for everything you need and highlights LOCAL businesses throughout our area.
Take a look at the list and show your support for these businesses that have done a fantastic job serving the community!
You can see the article here.
You can see the complete list here.
Everything from the best attorneys to the best electricians to the best bars are on this list.
It is a great resource for everything you need and highlights LOCAL businesses throughout our area.
Take a look at the list and show your support for these businesses that have done a fantastic job serving the community!
Poker is FUN!
Jumat, 03 September 2010
First, let me apologize for being a tad absent. The moral of the story is don't get tonsillitis when your over 21 (or even 40). It incapacitates you and they lied to you by saying you get all the ice cream you want!
I'm better now, so let's get on with it :)
Unless you have lived under a rock, you know that Poker became very VERY popular around 2003. Back then, you couldn't turn on the TV without seeing a show that was running a poker championship event, a cash game, or a celebrity poker game. At least 5 movies came out about poker, and everyone and their brother (and sisters) decided to jump in and play Texas Hold'em.
Well for the last 6 years, Riverchasers Entertainment has been providing free to enter Texas Hold'em tournaments in bars and restaurants throughout our area. "We started out taking advantage of the poker boom and were very successful. We built a huge following and acquired a lot of venues who wanted our service. By offering our games, we were able to attract anywhere from 35 to over 100 people a night to any game we held and that held a lot of value to our clients.", said Andrew Griffith, Vice President of Operations, and who has been with the company since the first year.
Riverchasers is like any other form of bar entertainment where the venue (or client) pays RC a fee to host their service for a night. Most venues sign on for a weekly game and their average tenure is over 2 1/5 years. Players can just show up to play, earn points, and qualify for Riverchasers trimester Tournament of Champions. There, players can compete for a chance at much larger prizes such as buy-ins to real casino poker tournaments. They also have numerous other qualifying events throughout the year where players can earn other larger prizes.
Riverchasers has awarded 5 World Series of Poker Main event seats in the last 6 years and numerous buy-ins to tournaments at the Borgata in Atlantic City. Those buy-ins range from $500 to $5,000 entries to real tournaments. "playing free poker on any night of the week and having a chance to win buy-ins to these tournaments is a ridiculous value. If you win a seat into a $1,000 tournament in a real casino, first place in those tournies can reach $200 thousand!", said Tom McMenamin, an avid player of the tour.
Riverchasers isn't only for the hard core player. Most players who attend played their first game of Texas Hold'em at a Riverchasers game. It is a totally social game and they consider themselves the largest social poker network in the state. You can even get lessons before your first game at any venue you attend.
As far as legalities go, Riverchasers works closely with the LCB to ensure that they are operating within the guidelines of the law. The games are free to enter so no gambling is taking place.
In addition to their bar games, Riverchasers also provides corporate and marketing events. They do everything from company holiday parties to large monte carlo nights for local business looking to attract people to their place of business.
To find out how to get involved, just visit their website. There you will find a nightly schedule of events of where you can play. Right now they service all of the Delaware, Lehigh and Cumberland Valleys, and are starting to expand. The website also boasts a forum where you can converse with other players, pick up information on special events, and even find out where you stand among the other players in the field.
The popularity of poker hasn't died off at all. Riverchasers has a database of over 35,000 players to prove that! Get out and enjoy the fun!
I'm better now, so let's get on with it :)
Unless you have lived under a rock, you know that Poker became very VERY popular around 2003. Back then, you couldn't turn on the TV without seeing a show that was running a poker championship event, a cash game, or a celebrity poker game. At least 5 movies came out about poker, and everyone and their brother (and sisters) decided to jump in and play Texas Hold'em.
Well for the last 6 years, Riverchasers Entertainment has been providing free to enter Texas Hold'em tournaments in bars and restaurants throughout our area. "We started out taking advantage of the poker boom and were very successful. We built a huge following and acquired a lot of venues who wanted our service. By offering our games, we were able to attract anywhere from 35 to over 100 people a night to any game we held and that held a lot of value to our clients.", said Andrew Griffith, Vice President of Operations, and who has been with the company since the first year.
Riverchasers is like any other form of bar entertainment where the venue (or client) pays RC a fee to host their service for a night. Most venues sign on for a weekly game and their average tenure is over 2 1/5 years. Players can just show up to play, earn points, and qualify for Riverchasers trimester Tournament of Champions. There, players can compete for a chance at much larger prizes such as buy-ins to real casino poker tournaments. They also have numerous other qualifying events throughout the year where players can earn other larger prizes.
Riverchasers has awarded 5 World Series of Poker Main event seats in the last 6 years and numerous buy-ins to tournaments at the Borgata in Atlantic City. Those buy-ins range from $500 to $5,000 entries to real tournaments. "playing free poker on any night of the week and having a chance to win buy-ins to these tournaments is a ridiculous value. If you win a seat into a $1,000 tournament in a real casino, first place in those tournies can reach $200 thousand!", said Tom McMenamin, an avid player of the tour.
Riverchasers isn't only for the hard core player. Most players who attend played their first game of Texas Hold'em at a Riverchasers game. It is a totally social game and they consider themselves the largest social poker network in the state. You can even get lessons before your first game at any venue you attend.
As far as legalities go, Riverchasers works closely with the LCB to ensure that they are operating within the guidelines of the law. The games are free to enter so no gambling is taking place.
In addition to their bar games, Riverchasers also provides corporate and marketing events. They do everything from company holiday parties to large monte carlo nights for local business looking to attract people to their place of business.
To find out how to get involved, just visit their website. There you will find a nightly schedule of events of where you can play. Right now they service all of the Delaware, Lehigh and Cumberland Valleys, and are starting to expand. The website also boasts a forum where you can converse with other players, pick up information on special events, and even find out where you stand among the other players in the field.
The popularity of poker hasn't died off at all. Riverchasers has a database of over 35,000 players to prove that! Get out and enjoy the fun!
Fried Chicken!
Kamis, 12 Agustus 2010
While driving around the Collegeville area recently, I came upon a place that I hadn't thought of in a quite some time. Speck's was a place I frequented growing up. The food is amazing. So I stopped and ordered a cheeseburger, a bucket of chicken, and some other appetizers to take home to the family. I had forgotten how awesome this place is.
So, as I started doing some research I came across this post. It's a quick read and fully details the menu that Specks offers today. The Landis family has operated the place since it opened and they have obviously have passed more down through the years than just a recipe for good chicken.
50 years and the business is as strong as ever. The tradition and heritage have stood the test of time and the family continues to succeed serving the community.
As a local business case study, this would be a prime example. Create or sell a product that you love, and have a passion for. Serve the community. Continue your tradition by always improving. Pass down through family and employees the experience and expertise you have that has always defined your offering.
So, as I started doing some research I came across this post. It's a quick read and fully details the menu that Specks offers today. The Landis family has operated the place since it opened and they have obviously have passed more down through the years than just a recipe for good chicken.
50 years and the business is as strong as ever. The tradition and heritage have stood the test of time and the family continues to succeed serving the community.
As a local business case study, this would be a prime example. Create or sell a product that you love, and have a passion for. Serve the community. Continue your tradition by always improving. Pass down through family and employees the experience and expertise you have that has always defined your offering.
Let's Bowl!
Rabu, 04 Agustus 2010
For more than 50 years, Facenda-Whitaker lanes has been serving the Moncto area as the number one stop for Bowling. What started out as a 20 lane bowling alley back in 1959, quickly turned into 50 lanes and a landmark for the Norristown area.
Originally, the business was slated to be called Care City Bowlero, but that was changed to Facenda-Whitaker, named after the two premier news and sports casters in the Delaware Valley. John Facenda and Jack Whitaker. John Facenda went on to be the iconic voice of NFL films and Jack Whitaker also took his place in sports broadcasting as well.
Today, Facenda is home to bowlers all over the Delaware Valley. It boasts the highest amount of 300 games bowled in the area. They also offer parties, banquets, corporate events, as well as a very busy league schedule.
In 1985, a sports bar was added, and "Steppy's" has become another area favorite. Whether it be to hang out, watch the game, or just enjoy some chow, Steppy's has become more than just an addition to the bowling alley.
Through the years Facenda has always made improvements with the customer in mind. From bumpers available for every lane to accommodate the younger kids, to scoring computers and screens for the best look and usability while playing your game.
There is an arcade available to cater to the kids during parties after their attention span for bowling has waned, and a pro shop for those that are serious about their game.
The bowling alley is open 24 hours for all to enjoy and I've yet to see it empty. Even at 3am there are always at least 4 lanes filled up and rockin'!
So if you haven't been in a while, or have never been, take the time to go bowl, eat, and party down. There's always something to do at this place.
Le Bus Bakery
Senin, 26 Juli 2010
What started out as a small bus providing breads for the University of Penn, quickly turned into a successful small business.
Le Bus, located in King of Prussia has been baking and selling their good since 1978. I remember first hearing of them when they opened their retail store in Manayunk, PA. That location is since gone, as the focus of the company has been more on distribution.
First, what do they sell.? Le Bus offers a line of artisan breads, rolls and pastries. Simple enough? Well, not really. What they do offer is the skill and experience in baking those breads to perfection. It is a passion that comes through with every bite.
Once the word got out, and the quality of their product was recognized and demanded, Le Bus started wholesaling their goods to area supermarkets and restaurant chains. Saladworks is a client, so if you ever ate there, and said, "MAN! I love the bread!", well, that's a Le Bus roll you just ate!.
Anyone who knows anything about bread here in PA knows that a good roll has a shelf life of about 12 hours. Once it gets to "tomorrow", the roll or bread has lost it's crunchy crust, and very soft inside. There have been many theories about why this is. It's gotta be the water!, maybe it's the climate here in the east? All we know is that bread is no good west of the Mississippi.
Le Bus, in order to combat that challenge, offers their clients flash freezing. That is the process of literally flash freezing their goods and allowing them to be baked again in order for clients to cut down on waste, and still offer a very fresh product to their customers.
They still offer their freshest products to area super markets. They have a DSD system (Direct Store Delivery) in the area that delivers their products daily so that you, the consumer, can enjoy their products at the peak of freshness.
Currently, Le Bus has 3 retail locations. One in the Reading Terminal Market, one on South St in Philly, and they have the outlet store right on Shoemaker Rd. in King of Prussia.
Aside from offering a high quality product, utilizing old world techniques to fashion their bread, rolls, and pastries, they built and executed a plan to market and distribute a product that is very difficult to do so because of how fast quality dissipates. Kudos to them for solving a problem and being able to service an area as wide as the Delaware Valley.
Le Bus, located in King of Prussia has been baking and selling their good since 1978. I remember first hearing of them when they opened their retail store in Manayunk, PA. That location is since gone, as the focus of the company has been more on distribution.
First, what do they sell.? Le Bus offers a line of artisan breads, rolls and pastries. Simple enough? Well, not really. What they do offer is the skill and experience in baking those breads to perfection. It is a passion that comes through with every bite.
Once the word got out, and the quality of their product was recognized and demanded, Le Bus started wholesaling their goods to area supermarkets and restaurant chains. Saladworks is a client, so if you ever ate there, and said, "MAN! I love the bread!", well, that's a Le Bus roll you just ate!.
Anyone who knows anything about bread here in PA knows that a good roll has a shelf life of about 12 hours. Once it gets to "tomorrow", the roll or bread has lost it's crunchy crust, and very soft inside. There have been many theories about why this is. It's gotta be the water!, maybe it's the climate here in the east? All we know is that bread is no good west of the Mississippi.
Le Bus, in order to combat that challenge, offers their clients flash freezing. That is the process of literally flash freezing their goods and allowing them to be baked again in order for clients to cut down on waste, and still offer a very fresh product to their customers.
They still offer their freshest products to area super markets. They have a DSD system (Direct Store Delivery) in the area that delivers their products daily so that you, the consumer, can enjoy their products at the peak of freshness.
Currently, Le Bus has 3 retail locations. One in the Reading Terminal Market, one on South St in Philly, and they have the outlet store right on Shoemaker Rd. in King of Prussia.
Aside from offering a high quality product, utilizing old world techniques to fashion their bread, rolls, and pastries, they built and executed a plan to market and distribute a product that is very difficult to do so because of how fast quality dissipates. Kudos to them for solving a problem and being able to service an area as wide as the Delaware Valley.
Building a business on expertise
Selasa, 20 Juli 2010
One of the driving forces behind someone wanting to start their own business is what they have in terms of a skill set. That skill set is usually gained through education and experience in something that they have a passion for.
In the case of King Shooters Supply, that's exactly how it happened. Roger Burris started shooting in 1985 and by 1986 began better bullets inc. Better Bullets was founded out of the need to do exactly what the name implies. Make a better bullet.
He built a round that performed to the highest industry standards. A cleaner, harder, and more accurate round that uses a special hardened alloy to provide better performance. Roger went on to develop and design the process improvements which have been incorporated by the manufacturer of the equipment that the bullets are made by. The bullets are nationally known and are used by Competition Champions as well as law enforcement and gun manufacturers. All told they use about 10,000 lbs. of alloy a month to keep up with production.
In 2003, Better Bullets moved into a larger shop and started King Shooters Supply to provide a retail location. In this location they sell everything from guns, to accessories, to ammunition. They work with local law enforcement and with the county departments making sure everyone is kept up to date on new products, improvements, and technology.
The store meets the needs of every type of shooter. Hunters, recreation shooters, competition shooters, those looking for self defense, and even paint ballers will be well served by the experienced staff. Roger is "papered up" as well with certifications from several manufacturers as a certified gun smith for those specific brands. His qualifications and expertise are well documented by numerous national and local organizations.
So if you are looking for a weapon for whatever reason, ever had an interest in shooting, or are even just curious, you can be sure that your answers will be met by qualified people who are passionate and skillful in the industry.
King Shooters Supply is located in King of Prussia, PA. The retail store compliments their on-line business and they are open 5 days a week. Click the links for directions and their sites!
Realtors are small biz pros
Sabtu, 17 Juli 2010
I met some friends at a local watering hole recently and people were talking about old acquaintances and what people were up to these days. One had made mention of a guy who was a Realtor and worked for Century 21. The conversation progressed and I listened to some pretty ridiculous notions about Realtors.
What struck me most peculiar was that this person actually thought that the title Realtor was an employed position. I assume most people know that when one "becomes" a Realtor, it's not a job. It's a business.
The fact is, Realtors are small business people. It's a career opportunity, yes, but you are pretty much accountable for your own success. You get the benefit of being under a National brand that helps lend credibility, provides recognition, and most importantly, training for your new venture, but a a professional, you are your own boss. Your revenue (and income) is determined by your abilities, effort, and knowledge.
Just as any other business owner, it's up to them to put forth the plan, the effort, and the resources to obtain whatever level of success they desire.
Local Realtors understand their communities. A good one will know the laws, the zoning, the properties up for sale, the school districts, the tax base, the bank rates, which banks are actively pursuing lending money, re-fi rates, etc. How is the housing market? Is it trending up, is it trending down, where can you get the best deal, what is the worst deal.
All of this can be found via an internet search, of course, but the local Realtor has it at their finger tips, AND has it locally. They aren't dealing in industry or national estimates. They have real time info directly related to your needs within your area. Having a friend in the Real Estate business is a huge advantage for anyone. You never know what opportunity will come their way, and by you being their friend, could ultimately come YOUR way.
The good ones are some of the hardest working people I know, and they deserve the recognition for going out of their way to attend to every single request they get. Some think it may be glamorous, some think it may be easy. I know from talking to these people that neither apply.
"The best part of my business is when I actually get to a close and the people who thought that owning a home would be impossible, finally realize their dreams", said Bill Frederick, a Realtor with Keller Williams in Horsham. "It makes all that data gathering, site visits, and conversations with banks all worth the while"'
Being a Real Estate agent is a tough business. There is a lot of turn over in Realty. You probably know someone who "tried" it, or someone who hinted at maybe giving it a try, but excuses such as, "it's not a good time to get in the market", or "there are so many of them to compete with" fly around as reasons not to. The truth is, Realty is a tough a job as any out there. Talk to any Realtor you know, and you'll soon find out what it takes.
They certainly aren't employees. They are truly, some of the best small business people around. They know that they can't sit and wait for someone to come in and buy something. It's not a waiting game like many businesses that sell goods. All someone like that can do is stock the shelves, put a marketing plan in place, and open the doors. Realtors have to go out and get their business. And they do it well.
So go pat one on the back next time you see them. They deserve it.
disclaimer: I am not a Realtor :)
What struck me most peculiar was that this person actually thought that the title Realtor was an employed position. I assume most people know that when one "becomes" a Realtor, it's not a job. It's a business.
The fact is, Realtors are small business people. It's a career opportunity, yes, but you are pretty much accountable for your own success. You get the benefit of being under a National brand that helps lend credibility, provides recognition, and most importantly, training for your new venture, but a a professional, you are your own boss. Your revenue (and income) is determined by your abilities, effort, and knowledge.
Just as any other business owner, it's up to them to put forth the plan, the effort, and the resources to obtain whatever level of success they desire.
Local Realtors understand their communities. A good one will know the laws, the zoning, the properties up for sale, the school districts, the tax base, the bank rates, which banks are actively pursuing lending money, re-fi rates, etc. How is the housing market? Is it trending up, is it trending down, where can you get the best deal, what is the worst deal.
All of this can be found via an internet search, of course, but the local Realtor has it at their finger tips, AND has it locally. They aren't dealing in industry or national estimates. They have real time info directly related to your needs within your area. Having a friend in the Real Estate business is a huge advantage for anyone. You never know what opportunity will come their way, and by you being their friend, could ultimately come YOUR way.
The good ones are some of the hardest working people I know, and they deserve the recognition for going out of their way to attend to every single request they get. Some think it may be glamorous, some think it may be easy. I know from talking to these people that neither apply.
"The best part of my business is when I actually get to a close and the people who thought that owning a home would be impossible, finally realize their dreams", said Bill Frederick, a Realtor with Keller Williams in Horsham. "It makes all that data gathering, site visits, and conversations with banks all worth the while"'
Being a Real Estate agent is a tough business. There is a lot of turn over in Realty. You probably know someone who "tried" it, or someone who hinted at maybe giving it a try, but excuses such as, "it's not a good time to get in the market", or "there are so many of them to compete with" fly around as reasons not to. The truth is, Realty is a tough a job as any out there. Talk to any Realtor you know, and you'll soon find out what it takes.
They certainly aren't employees. They are truly, some of the best small business people around. They know that they can't sit and wait for someone to come in and buy something. It's not a waiting game like many businesses that sell goods. All someone like that can do is stock the shelves, put a marketing plan in place, and open the doors. Realtors have to go out and get their business. And they do it well.
So go pat one on the back next time you see them. They deserve it.
disclaimer: I am not a Realtor :)
How do you become a millionaire?
Kamis, 08 Juli 2010
A nickle at a time! That should always be the answer for anyone aspiring to become wealthy. There are no tricks. It's good old fashioned hard work and a little bit of good timing (some refer to this as luck), but the credo stands true.
Ask any financial adviser and he'll say the same thing. Don't look to make a big score. The larger the return the greater the risk taken. But if you get yourself into a good plan, earning a little at a time, steadily, over time, the wealth will build.
Ever notice why there are so many banks in the area? Have you noticed? Next time you stop at any major intersection, take a look. Count them. There is usually one on every corner, and don't forget to count the one inside the supermarket.
WHY do you think there are so many banks? How do you think they make their money? A nickel at a time! All those accounts come with transaction fees. ATM fees, check fees, annual fees, interest rates, monthly fees, etc.
With recent history, banks aren't everyone's favorite monkey either. However, they are a necessary part of our lives. In fact, I don't know how anyone survives in today's world without the use of a financial institution.
That brings me to the point. With the multitude of banks to choose from, there are still locally owned options. Continental Bank is one of those options in our area. Harleysville Bank is another, as well as Alliance Bank. In fact there are many to choose from.
So coming up, I am working on some interviews with local bank officials to find out their philosophies on operating within the community and why it's beneficial to use them versus the larger national banks. It used to be that local banks just didn't offer enough branches to be convenient for their consumers. Not anymore. Branches are becoming more and more irrelevant. With these interviews, I am learning more and more about the advantages of using these local institutions over the larger national ones and will write about them here.
I am also close to bringing the battle of the bakery's post to a close. One more interview and we will have a good "spread" to choose from! Stay tuned!
Ask any financial adviser and he'll say the same thing. Don't look to make a big score. The larger the return the greater the risk taken. But if you get yourself into a good plan, earning a little at a time, steadily, over time, the wealth will build.
Ever notice why there are so many banks in the area? Have you noticed? Next time you stop at any major intersection, take a look. Count them. There is usually one on every corner, and don't forget to count the one inside the supermarket.
WHY do you think there are so many banks? How do you think they make their money? A nickel at a time! All those accounts come with transaction fees. ATM fees, check fees, annual fees, interest rates, monthly fees, etc.
With recent history, banks aren't everyone's favorite monkey either. However, they are a necessary part of our lives. In fact, I don't know how anyone survives in today's world without the use of a financial institution.
That brings me to the point. With the multitude of banks to choose from, there are still locally owned options. Continental Bank is one of those options in our area. Harleysville Bank is another, as well as Alliance Bank. In fact there are many to choose from.
So coming up, I am working on some interviews with local bank officials to find out their philosophies on operating within the community and why it's beneficial to use them versus the larger national banks. It used to be that local banks just didn't offer enough branches to be convenient for their consumers. Not anymore. Branches are becoming more and more irrelevant. With these interviews, I am learning more and more about the advantages of using these local institutions over the larger national ones and will write about them here.
I am also close to bringing the battle of the bakery's post to a close. One more interview and we will have a good "spread" to choose from! Stay tuned!
Happy Birthday America!
Sabtu, 03 Juli 2010
Here's wishing everyone a very happy Independence Day! Celebrate Hard! But be safe!
Frosty Falls!
Kamis, 01 Juli 2010
If you've ever driven through Bridgeport you may have noticed the quaint little building that resides right along side the River, across the street from the big red brick building on Dekalb.
That little building is Frosty Falls. A family run business that caters not only those looking for Frosty Treats, but to those looking for a little grub as well.
Frosty uses only the best ingredients in their sandwiches with Boars Head brand meats and Conshy Bakery rolls. They also serve 28 flavors of Hershey Ice Cream as well as water ice and Soft serve.
Sound familiar? Sound like your typical family owned deli style shop that serves ice cream as well? how about the attention to detail they show their customers? Once a week Frosty falls has free train rides for all the kiddies, and being by the river always makes for a cool time.
They are open throughout the spring and summer and most of the fall. Times vary upon the weather but you're certainly missing out if you don't hit this place at least once.
Frosty Falls is just one of those places that the kids need to experience. It's that much fun!
Langganan:
Postingan (Atom)
