Posts Tagged ‘business solutions

10
Apr
12

Merle Norman Featured in Longview’s Business Chronicles

Supporting and promoting business in the Longview trade area is a core competency of the Longview Chamber of Commerce. Our Chamber understands in order to have a healthy economic climate we must have a strong and diverse business base that creates jobs.

This week’s business feature is on Merle Norman. Judy Kennemer’s dream at age 20, was to own her own Merle Norman. Newly married, she knew the dream could not be fulfilled. In 1993, her daughter worked for Merle Norman and called her mom and told her that the Longview franchise was for sale. She immediately went to her banker and was turned down because she had inadequate income as a single mother of three. She didn’t give up on her dream, and approached the owner to see if she would do owner financing. The owner saw the passion the passion that Judy had for the business and financed it for her.

Judy credits hard work and determination for her success.  She knows her customers by name and knows that customer service is what keeps her customers coming back.  Merle Norman offers free services such as:  foundation makeovers, hydration facials, and the Merle Norman philosophy you can try a product before you buy it.  Merle Norman also provides facial services at their Tall Pines location.  From their Merle Norman signature facial to a pumpkin peel that can help diminish fine lines.

Judy recently attended a Facebook session at the Chamber.  She wanted to learn the latest marketing trends to attract younger clients on social media.  She was able to squeeze in this training into her busy schedule because it was offered at the chamber and lunch was provided.  The Chamber understands how hectic  small business owners days can be and offers convenient continuing education courses. Classes that are coming up are business development classes on Social Customer Service, and Twitter for your business.  To get a complete listing of classes offered at the Chamber, please check our calendar of events.

Merle Norman has two locations in Longview.

MERLE NORMAN COSMETIC STUDIOS

Longview Mall
PH (903) 753-0041
3500 Mccann Rd
Unit L-7A
Longview, TX 75605-4416

Pine Tree Center
PH (903)759-1551
1809 W. Loop 281
Ste. 134
Longview, TX 75604

27
Mar
12

Brothers’ Sandwiches Featured in Longview’s Business Chronicles

Supporting and promoting business in the Longview trade area is a core competency of the Longview Chamber of Commerce. Our Chamber understands in order to have a healthy economic climate we must have a strong and diverse business base that creates jobs.

This week’s business feature is on Brothers’ Sandwiches. David Lichty’s passion for food started when he was 16 and started working in the food industry. Twenty one years later, attending culinary school and apprenticeships with several east coast chefs, he opened Brothers’ Sandwiches downtown Longview in August 2011. David wanted to create a restaurant where the food is affordable while using the freshest ingredients. He believes in a “no preservative, plan menu” concept. He has a passion for food and tries to use the least amount of ingredients in his dishes.

David uses social media to promote his business. Each day on Brothers’ Sandwiches’ Face Book page, David posts his special of the day. He also uses it to promote other events that are happening downtown. David also believes in shopping local.  He purchases his produce and other supplies for his restaurants from local vendors.  Brothers’ Sandwiches recently joined the Chamber to become more involved in the community, get continuing education, and to have opportunities to network with other local business owners. The Chamber offers low-cost classes on social media, customer service and other issues that small business owners are facing.  Check out our events calendar to see what classes are coming up. 

Brothers’ Sandwiches is located downtown Longview on:
108 E. Tyler Street
Longview, TX 75601
PH: 903.212.7687

Brotherssandwicheshop.com

Hours:

Monday –Friday
10:30 am -2:00 pm

25
Feb
12

Connect at BusinessExpo! Longview’s Largest B2B Event!

 

Connect at Longview’s Largest B2B Event!

Business Expo is your chance to connect with over 60 companies in one location to get the products and services your company needs!  This is Longview’s ONLY comprehensive Business to Business event during the year.

Low-cost business development sessions will also be presented during Business Expo.  This is an opportunity for you and your employees to receive quality education without traveling out of town and incurring additional costs. Leadership Development Program Sponsors are eZforex.com and Evans World Travel

Business Expo kicks off at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, May 1, 2012, at Maude Cobb Convention Center.

This year’s event is presented by the Longview Economic Development Corporation and sponsored in part by Computerland of East Texas, Good Shepherd Medical Center and UnitedHealthcare.

Admission to the show floor is free and open to the public until 5:00 pm.  However, Chamber members are given exclusive access during Business After Hours, which begins at 4:45 pm and will conclude at 6:30 pm.

   Act Now!  Space is Limited!

FLOOR PLAN

REGISTRATION FORM

http://longviewchamber.com/BusinessExpo

 

14
Feb
12

Answers to IMPACT Your Business

Do you need a new marketing strategy?  Do you need to add value to your business?

You should never have to cope with the challenges of running a business alone. We’re here to help you find solutions for the challenges you face in running your business. Every business needs resources to succeed. From financial education to lead generation, in today’s competitive business environment, every little edge can make the difference.

The Longview Chamber is researching tools to enhance business formation and expansion. These tools include an online “toolkit” with links to useful forms, sample business plans, business funding information, and free non-commercial sources of business how-to information.

The Chamber is here to become a supporter and to promote growth towards a healthy economic future for our community.  You can access the tool kit by clicking on Tools for Business.  You will find update information on the latest local, state, federal, and best-of-the-web resources to start and grow your business.  Includes rates for 850+ jobs; Business Start-Up Kit, Loan Payment Calculator, 85 business-related online classes, new hire email, Employer’s Kit AND more.

Other sources that are also available can be found at the Small Business Development Center at:  http://www.kilgore.edu/sbdc.asp.

23
Jan
12

Knowledge Nook Toys the Toy Place Featured in this week’s Business Chronicle

Supporting and promoting business in the Longview trade area is a core competency of the Longview Chamber of Commerce.  Our Chamber understands in order to have a healthy economic climate we must have a strong and diverse business base that creates jobs.

This week’s business feature is on Knowledge Nook Toys the Toy Place — a premier teaching supply store, PLUS toy store! Knowledge Nook the Toy Place opened for business in 1975. Attributes for their success range from providing great customer service, free gift wrapping, follow up phone calls after a purchase, and offering personable care.  “We take great pride in providing a friendly loving atmosphere for each and every customer.  I believe that is why we’ve not only stayed in business but have grown our business to provide a wider variety of in-stock products,” explained store manager,   Nick Rogers.

What makes the Knowledge Nook the Toy Place unique is their ability to target two different markets, the toy and educational industry.  They offer new teaching alternatives for today’s educators as well as provide innovative gifts for parents. 

Diana Northcutt asked Nick, Knowledge Nook the Toy Place, what do you like about doing business in Longview?  Nick explained, “We opened in 1975, our first goal was to create a close knit family feel with our customers.  Establishing these types of relationships allow us the opportunity to provide products/services that meets the needs of all generations; grandparents, children and grandchildren.”

Diana also visited with Nick about Chamber benefits and what he has enjoyed taking advantage of.  Recently, I had the chance to attend a customer service webinar on “Delivering WOW” with Myra Golden at the Chamber.  I enjoyed meeting other business professionals while being able to take advantage of a great AFFORDABLE training.  I’m glad the Chamber offers business education programming to help me be a better store manager…that’s customer service.

Knowledge Nook Toys can be found at:

114A Johnston St

Longview, TX 75601

Ph:  (903) 753-8741

Check them out on Facebook:

facebook.com/KnowledgeNook

19
Jan
12

Geocaching is catching on in Longview Texas….have you played yet?

The Longview Chamber of Commerce annual community magazine, Uniquely Longview has a new trick up its sleeve this year. In addition to all of the good information on community events, services and features of interest, this year’s focus has been on the popular activity, Geocache hunting or “Geocaching.” Tying the fun of hunting for hidden caches, some as small or smaller than a pill box, into the many treasures Longview has for visitors and residents, an official hunt has been planned that invites all comers far and near. Who will win the grand prize, a fabulous “Staycation.” Staycation is a term coined to described the activity of taking a break and doing vacation activities without leaving your home town or at least not going very far. Staycationers often leave their home and stay for a weekend in a local hotel, eat in restaurants and take in some of the many attractions that too often are overlooked in a regular daily routine. One Grand Prize for being first to solve all the designated hidden caches is a Stacation, with hotel stay at Longview’s Homewood Suites by Hilton plus tickets to local events and dinner for two at Enoch’s Stomp Vineyard and Winery. After the Grand Prize is claimed there remain 100 attractive and Official Commemorative Coins from the hunt. The collecting of coins is a very popular activity among the avid geocachers. The contest will continue until all coins have been claimed. To help get the work out, a QR code has been placed in Uniquely Longview and on a flyer that will help smart phone users connect to the website that also has the rules and information about the Uniquely Longview Geocache Hunt. The Longview Chamber of Commerce Convention and Visitors Bureau is managing the hunt and they hope to spread the work out far and wide to pull visitors into Longview.

13
Jan
12

Blue Jean Baby Featured in Longview’s Business Chronicle

Promoting our members is one of the core competencies of the Longview Chamber of Commerce.   Recently, we kicked off a new strategy called Longview’s Business Chronicles to help promote Shop & Dine in Longview.

This week we are featuring Blue Jean Baby, Longview’s newest children’s boutique, offering a variety of boys and girls clothing lines as well as custom embroidery.  Blue Jean Baby also makes hospital door wreaths, bows, tutu sets, burp cloths and much more.  As an added customer benefit they offer FREE hospital delivery on gifts as well as baby registry services. 

Sierra Ray, owner, of Blue Jean Baby understands that customer service is key to any successful business model.  Businesses that are willing to go the extra mile are noticed and talked about! Customer loyalty is built on consistency and genuine appreciation. At Blue Jean Baby we are committed to providing that service.  Also, finding our niche’ in the market place has helped set us apart from others.  For Blue Jean Baby that niche is free hospital deliveries.

When the Chamber staff visited with Sierra about what advice she would give to someone starting a new business, it was to have an accountant help you walk through the process.  Do your research, except the unexpected and be protective of your business plan. Sierra believes joining the Chamber will open new doors through the networking opportunities.  Being involved in the community is also important to me, she explained.  As a member of the Longview Chamber I can accomplish both goals; meeting new people and become engaged.

Blue Jean Baby is conveniently located at 1017 N. 4th Street, in Longview, Texas just one block north of the Mud Hut.  Hours: Monday-Friday 9a-5p & Saturday 10a-2p.

 

07
Jan
12

Longview’s Business Chronicles Features Sweet Treats and Gifts

Promoting our members is one of the core competencies of the Longview Chamber of Commerce.   Recently, we kicked off a new strategy called Longview’s Business Chronicles to help promote Shop & Dine in Longview.

This week’s business feature is on Sweet Treats and Gifts.  They offer a variety of sweet goods.  As the only candy store in our community, they are the only store that offers 24 flavors of Jelly Belly’s, 18 flavors of saltwater taffy, a Pucker Powder Machine with 12 flavors, novelty candies, Zots, 6 flavors of Pop Rocks, 11 flavors of caramel/chocolate apples that be dipped into just about any candy, and a line of gourmet chocolates.

Owners Belinda Freeman and Teresa Boyce credit the Small Business Development Center, research and finding a preceptor for their success.  “The SBDC can guide you in the right direction.  They have a wealth of knowledge and know where to guide you in the community.” Teresa stated.

Belinda and Teresa said that they joined the Chamber because the Chamber’s vision reiterates their own values, “To be recognized as an effective resource, provide relevant, innovative and impactful programming that ensures a healthy business climate and an enhanced quality of life for Longview.”  They cannot wait to jump into the knowledge and experience the Chamber has to offer because they see that one day they can give those experiences back to others.

If you are looking for shop that offers an array of sweets and exceptional treats, stop by Sweet Treats and Gifts.  They are located in the French Quarter shopping center beside Starbucks.

Sweet Treats and Gifts is open Tuesday – Thursday: 10:00am to 6:00pm and Friday – Saturday: 10:00am to 7:00pm.

Sweet Treats

409 W Loop 281, Suite 102

Longview, TX  75605

Sweettreatsgifts.com

26
Dec
11

Longview Business Chronicles Features Cheeburger Cheeburger

Promoting our members is one of the core competencies of the Longview Chamber of Commerce.   Recently, we are kicked off a new strategy called Longview’s Business Chronicles to help promote Shop & Dine in Longview. 

This week’s business feature is on Cheeburger Cheeburger with owners Cammy Altmen and Jada Beaver owners.  Cheeburger Cheeburger opened in 2011.  One of their first objectives was to join the Chamber so they could be part of the community. 

We want to be a GREAT corporate citizen by giving back to the community.  One of the ways we plan to do that is by helping non-profits fundraise. We will donate 15% of our sales to your cause.  We are hoping more non-profits will contact us at 903-663-8600 to get more information.

 Altem and Beaver’s explained they had wanting to open a family type restaurant for Longview for some time.  They explored franchise’s that met their personal vision of what they wanted to see in Longview.  When they discovered CCB the corporate values is what ultimately drove the decision. Again one of the key factors for choosing CCB was because they encourage franchises to be part of the community.   

 Diana Northcutt asked Altmen and Beaver’s what advice they have for entrepreneurs looking to start a business.  Good solid planning is important.  Become informed about the franchise choices.  Write a business plan.  Take advantage of the services with Small Business Development’s Center. They also stated, do not give up and do your business locally.

 What Makes Cheeburger Cheeburger Different?  Each one sets us apart and optimizes each of our core products. Which are, and always will be, burgers, fries, rings, and shakes, the casual “comfort” food America loves.  We are unwavering in our insistence on the highest quality ingredients and raw products. Our beef is always fresh, never frozen, direct from the processor, not a middle man. It’s lean all-natural Angus beef with nothing added. Nothing artificial. No chemicals. We buy, use and serve brand names. Even down to the smallest individual serving packs for Take-out.

Quality is one cornerstone of our success. No one ever leaves one of our restaurants hungry. Everything is bigger than expected. Our pounder is actually a huge 20 ounces before cooking. Take a look at the weight before cooking on each of our burgers (it’s right on our menu). And you’ll find that our “Big is Better” motto holds true for our portions of fries, rings, shakes, salads…everything we serve. Our serving sizes and quality add up to value that is unmatched. We cook everything to order. It takes a few extra minutes, but we would rather have a customer wait for great food than have great food waiting around for a customer. There is no central commissary or kitchen. Virtually everything we offer is made from scratch, daily, right in each of our restaurants. Our famous fries are cut from huge Idaho potatoes, cured, adhering to an exacting process, and at the right time, cooked in cholesterol-free peanut oil. Our rings are cut from colossal onions, dipped in our special batter and also cooked in tasty, cholesterol-free peanut oil.

At Cheeburger Cheeburger, a customer can invent his or her own taste. Their very own “Signature” Cheeburger. They can select from Jalapeno peppers, chopped garlic, guacamole, roasted red peppers…and, of course, typical toppings too, like tomato, and onion plus at least six quality cheeses. And they can get these free toppings on grilled chicken, grilled cheese, or on their salads.

If you have not been to Cheeburger Cheeburger you and your family need to stop in and give it a try.  You can find them in the strip center by Lowe’s on Fourth St.

Cheeburger Cheeburger
3407 N Fourth St Ste 101
Longview, TX 75605      (903) 663-8600

http://www.cheeburger.com

19
Dec
11

Christmas Business Chronicles Features Cheddar’s Casual Cafe

Promoting our members is one of the core competencies of the Longview Chamber of Commerce.  This year we are kicking off a new strategy called Christmas Chronicles to help promote Shop Longview and support our local retail base.

This week’s business feature is on Cheddars Casual Café, manager Chelsee Dorgan.   Cheddar’s began as a simple idea. Our founders, Aubrey Good and Doug Rogers envisioned an inviting neighborhood restaurant offering handmade, high quality food at a reasonable price. They wanted their guests to feel valued and respected. And they were determined to never compromise these fundamentals.

Their dream became a reality in 1979 when the first Cheddar’s opened its doors in Arlington, Texas, starting a tradition of quality that guides us every day. We’re especially proud of our menu, including homemade favorites that are still prepared the same way, in-house and from scratch. We are also proud of our great team. They are attentive and dedicated to taking care of our guests each and every day.

At Cheddar’s, our goal is to live up to that original, simple idea: be a great restaurant that serves quality food fresh from the kitchen in a friendly, comfortable atmosphere at a fair price.

Diana Northcutt asked Chelsee why Cheddar’s joined the Chamber? Cheddar’s understands first-hand the benefits of joining local Chambers.  From networking opportunites, charitable/philathropic partnerships and the mutual support and guidance from other members we’ve found that membership is invaluable.  We are proud to be a part of the Longview Chamber and look forward to contributing toward the growth of the local economy today and for years to come.  In addition, we’re incredibly grateful for the support of the Chamber and local neighbors who have been so gracious and warm upon my return to East Texas! -Chelsee Dorgan

The bottom line is the Longview location had lost site of the Cheddar’s corporate philosophy and values.  Our priority is the high quality of our food and service.  We need the help of the Chamber to help us with messaging.   Since joining we’ve already seen a difference.  Our management team has been attending functions like the Chairman’s Holiday Reception, we’ve had our ribbon cutting, and we’ve reached out to many of the Chamber’s leadership.

Cheddar’s is commitment to Longview and giving back to the community.  The community can count on us to be a good corporate citizen.

Cheddars opened six years ago today, 12/19/2005.  If you have been to Cheddars recently, we hope you will check them out.  Cheddars is located on North Eastman Rd (N 259).

Cheddars Casual Café

3074 N Eastman Rd
Longview, TX 75605

www.cheddars.com




 

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