Greater Burlington Chamber of Commerce issued the following announcement on July 22.
The 2020 Small Business of the Year is the perfect example and is the definition of Small Business, with a staff of one. In the past year, this small business has seen growth in sales, retail floor space and online presence with their own merchandise plus 30 artisans handmade goods. Pre-covid, Sales were up 50% over the last six months.
In the past year they have introduced the Wise Owl Paint line which includes a large array of furniture painting products. They have seen customers from an hour radius travel to just for the paints. They have also greatly expanded their product offerings to have not just locally handmade goods, but handmade goods from every corner of America.
With a successful and unique business model, each vendor only earns as much as they sell, so it's imperative that they offer high quality goods and at a price that pays them a wage and that people are willing to spend. The harder the vendors work, and the more they hone their skills, the more they make. While all of the makers are business owners, two vendors went on to open up brick and mortar stores themselves, two more were already brick and mortar owners, and one more is in the planning phase of opening their own shop.
While the structure of the business may be somewhat different, it’s accurate to say they provide a positive effect on our community and Downtown Burlington. Business owner, Chelsea Stevens is very passionate about the Burlington area, and is thankful to have found a spot where she can prioritize family, creativity, and a love for old things and artisans. Always quick to lend a hand and share her experience, she has helped multiple businesses at beginning phases of their own business with the planning phases, developing an online presence, or social media marketing. She has also help established business owners with technology questions, social media photography, and online marketing assistance.
All Des Moines County businesses are winners but this year a special Congratulations to Burlington Vintage & Company, the 2020 Small Business of the Year!
Original source: https://www.greaterburlington.com/chamber/news/small-business-of-the-year---burlington-vintage--company/
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