Posts Tagged ‘Business Success

21
Feb
12

Casa Flora featured on Longview’s Business Chronicles

By Longview Chamber of Commerce Leave a Comment
Categories: The Business View
Tags: , , , , , , , ,

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 Casa Flora Flower Shop. Casa Flora is a full service florist that is family owned and operated since 1984. Their floral designers and customer service representatives have over 115 years combined experience in the floral industry. Casa Flora is a member of Teleflora wire service and has been recognized as one of the “Top 500” sending florists in the country. They are also members of Allied Florists Association of Longview. Casa Flora was voted “Best Florist of East Texas” in the Longview New-Journal’s Reader’s Choice Awards in 2001, 2005, 2007 and 2008.

Attributes for their success are education and customer service. Two florists on staff have a bachelor’s degree in Floral Design, and they are continuously attending seminars and shows on the latest floral designs. Casa Flora also believes that a customer is for life, therefore customer service is key. Longtime employee Darlene Clark stated, “We are there in their sad times, and we are there in their happy times.” At the Chamber of Commerce you have access to customer service training that is offered at convenient times for yourself and your employees. Being involved in the community is also important to Casa Flora. As a member of the Longview Chamber they can accomplish this, by receiving up to date information of local events and become engaged with other business owners.
If you are looking for a unique florist please check out Casa Flora.

Casa Flora is located on:
314 Magnolia Lane
Longview, TX 75605
PH: 903-753-4492 or 800-245-4614

Office hours are:
Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. – noon
Closed Sunday
www.casafloraflowers.com

14
Feb
12

Answers to IMPACT Your Business

By Longview Chamber of Commerce Leave a Comment
Categories: The Business View and Uncategorized
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

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.

06
Feb
12

BalancedDiet featured on Longview’s Business Chronicles

By Longview Chamber of Commerce Leave a Comment
Categories: The Business View
Tags: , , , , , , , ,

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 BalanceDiet, a premium wellness, diet and lifestyle company. The BalanceDiet experience is all about transformation. BalanceDiet is for everyone that is looking to make healthy lifestyle changes or maintain wellness.

Lisa Noble, owner of BalanceDiet, chose a franchise instead of developing her own wellness center because of the support a franchise can offer. “Not only does a franchise provide guidelines for your business, but they also help you with marketing aspects. If it wasn’t for the marketing support, I don’t think I would have been able to come up with these great campaigns,” Lisa said.

Diana Northcutt and Lisa Noble also discussed the benefits of attending the Longview Chamber of Commerce’s Business After. Lisa said “Attending Business After Hours has given me the opportunity to network with owners of other companies and provide them with an opportunity to offer employee discounts at BalanceDiet to their staff. Just recently at a Business After Hours, I was able to get ideas from other members for a Girls’ Night Out open house. ”

The Chamber’s series of monthly after hours networking events is a high-energy, professional approach to grow your business and market your products and services, one handshake at a time. These events are prime opportunities for members to meet face-to-face with existing and potential clients to build positive business relationships that impact their bottom line.

BalanceDiet is located in the Towne Crossing Shopping Center near Target in Longview.
3080 N. Eastman Road Suite 108,
Longview, TX 75605
Phone: 903.663.5900
Website: http://www.gobalancediet.com
Hours:
Mon – Thu: 10:00 am-7:00 pm
Fri: 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Sat: 9:00 am-1:00 pm

23
Jan
12

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

By Longview Chamber of Commerce Leave a Comment
Categories: Business Development and Chamber of Commerce
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

18
Jan
12

ABC Auto Parts Recognized as Large Business of the Year

By Longview Chamber of Commerce Leave a Comment
Categories: Business Development, Chamber of Commerce, Networking Events and Promoting Longview
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Longview Chamber of Commerce’s Large Business of the Year Award was created to highlight and celebrate the accomplishments and contributions that make an impact not only on the business community but the community at large. Large businesses are the backbone of the economy. They create jobs, cement communities, and build strong cultures.  Tonight’s recipient, ABC Auto Parts,  has been in business since 1968 creating over 400 jobs. 

 ABC Auto Parts is the leading supplier of auto parts to automotive repair centers in the Shreveport/East Texas area. Family-owned since 1968, their number one priority is and always has been customer satisfaction. With their commitment to customer service and an unbeatable product selection, ABC is a complete resource for a wide range of customers; including do it yourselfers, new car dealers, automotive repair shops, tire stores, and oil change centers. ABC is a trusted name and the local leader in auto parts and service.

The company was started in 1968 when Loyd Pyle opened ABC Auto Parts #1. One year later he opened his second retail store. That year he also opened a warehouse distributorship and began selling other parts stores and new car dealers.

By 1985 the company had grown the wholesale business significantly, built a new 63,000 square foot distribution center and was operating four retail stores. Company President Larry Pyle and Vice President David Gordy began to expand the company store base, opening about one store per year from 1985 to 2000.

Today the company is still expanding through the addition of new stores. The goal remains to be the number one parts store in each new market it enters. The company now consists of the warehouse distribution business, twenty six retail stores, two automotive glass shops, and a truck accessory store.

ABC remains a family owned company. Today the company is owned and managed by founder Loyd Pyle’s two children, Larry Pyle and Karen Cloud, and several third generation family members. ABC remains committed to high quality products, superior customer service and strong employee relations; the business principles established by Loyd Pyle in the early days of the company.

www.abcauto.com

13
Jan
12

Blue Jean Baby Featured in Longview’s Business Chronicle

By Longview Chamber of Commerce 4 Comments
Categories: Business Development and Chamber of Commerce
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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

By Longview Chamber of Commerce 2 Comments
Categories: Business Development, Chamber of Commerce, Networking Events and Uncategorized
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

05
Oct
11

Longview Chamber Leaders to Attend U S Chamber Regional Advocacy Training

By Longview Chamber of Commerce Leave a Comment
Categories: Advocacy and Chamber of Commerce
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Regional Governmental Affairs Conference

Chamber Leaders Attend Training

The US Chamber of Commerce is hosting their 2011 Regional Conference in Chicago beginning today, October 5 through the 7th.  President, Kelly Hall and Board Member, Tim Vaughn will be representing the Longview Chamber.  The US Chamber has put together an action packed agenda while securing top notch speakers such as Andy Card, former Chief of Staff to President George W. Bush, who will discuss the need to reduce regulations that are crushing job growth.  

This year’s conference also features a half-day track dedicated to communications and messaging. Vaughn and Hall will be taking courses on traditional policy/grassroots and communications/messaging where they will focus on communications resources to broaden awareness about the issues impacting the economy, business, and job creation. The communications track will also provide hands-on training on how to more powerfully and effectively deliver your chamber’s message. This type of training is invaluable explained Hall.  This is a terrific opportunity for us to expand our skills and improve our effectiveness through local outreach.

Often time’s business leaders and elected officials ask why is the Chamber involved in advocacy … my response is as follows said Hall;  the way the world does business is changing – what doesn’t change is the need to represent the interests of business with government. Advocacy was one of the first things the Founding Fathers of our nation sought to protect. The first amendment to the Constitution makes very clear that petitioning the gov­ernment is an important right that should not be taken away. Democracy is not a spectator sport. Businesses must play to make sure they are in the game and influencing the outcome. With the Longview Chamber’s broad base of members and the resources that we are equipped with, the Longview Chamber is the perfect con­duit to serve and represent the Voice of Busi­ness to key decision makers.  

Connecting leaders and influencing decisions is a natural role for Chambers of Commerce. We are the only entity in our community that repre­sents business of all sizes, industries, and stages. This gives Chambers a unique market niche to be the leading voice on public policy. Chambers are able to harness the collective power or their membership and join them together as one voice to influence outcomes in govern­ment. There probably is no more important function for Cham­bers than to be the voice for business in their community.

The bottom-line is our members want to be profitable and stay competitive. Who better to be on their side than the Chamber? Our organization has the strategic political insight, timely knowl­edge of business issues, knows all the players, and can we be a posi­tive force to promote business interests with government. Our Chamber’s collective clout helps keep business taxes and regula­tions in line. When YOUR Chamber focuses on politics and policy, mem­bers can take care of running their companies!

Longview’s Elected Officials:

U.S. Senator John Cornyn, U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, Congressman Louie Gohmert 

Texas State Senator Kevin Eltife and State Representative David Simpson

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07
Sep
11

Hall Appointed to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Committee of 100

By Longview Chamber of Commerce 1 Comment
Categories: Advocacy and Chamber of Commerce
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Chamber President Kelly Hall was recently appointed to the U.S Chamber of Commerce Committee of 100 by John Ruan III, Chairman of the Board.  The Chamber 100 is made up of the country’s leading chamber of commerce chief staff executives. Their primary function is as the advisory body for the U.S. Chamber dealing with matters related to state and local chambers of commerce.

“These experienced leaders provide advice to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce board of directors, enhance Chamber lobbying and coalition work, recommend programming, and strengthen outreach to the business and chamber community, said Ruan.  “Having CEO’s like Kelly provides us with the expert help and advice needed to assist the U.S. Chamber to better understand the needs of chambers of commerce and can offer recommendations on programs and services to meet those needs.” Members of the committee attend two meetings each year. These events deliver leadership development through high-impact seminars with business experts and leading authors, discussion on pressing policy issues, and CEO-to-CEO breakout sessions.

Being appointed to the Committee of 100 is a great privilege explained Hall.  Being part of such a dynamic group will benefit our members and community.  Longview will now have a stronger voice in identifying emerging issues that will impact our chambers members at a national level. 

Hall also serves on the Transportation Infrastructure and Logistics Committee for the U.S. Chamber.  This committee is comprised of executives representing transportation providers and users, and is the primary policy-originating body for the U.S. Chamber in the area of transportation infrastructure. The committee’s jurisdiction includes policy, regulatory and financing issues related to aviation, surface transportation, and ports, and inland waterways. In addition to setting the policy agenda, the committee serves as an important forum for networking and education for our members.  Hall addressed the committee as part of a rail panel on the importance of higher speed rail in 2010.

19
Aug
11

Chamber Products that can Benefit Your Bottom Line!

By Longview Chamber of Commerce 5 Comments
Categories: Advocacy, Business Development and Chamber of Commerce
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On February 1, 2009 the Longview Chamber in conjunction with Jackson-Lloyd Insurance Management launched “Sensible Solution”.   “Sensible Solution” was designed to protect the business interests of the membership by providing real occupational health insurance protection in an affordable way to any size business.  “Sensible Solution” has become one of two GREAT benefits offered to members. 

The second insurance plan launched on July 1, 2010, “ChamberChoice Health Savings Plan”.  Chamber members with 1-99 employees now has access to several differentUnitedHealthcare health plan options – at prices that fit most budgets.  In addition, businesses that enroll withUnitedHealthcare through this partnership will receive a 7 percent discount on select medical plans and have an option for saving 5 percent on their bundled dental and vision plans.  Plus, businesses and employees who enroll in the ChamberChoice Health Savings Plan will also have access toUnitedHealthcare’s nationwide health care provider network of more than 600,000 physicians and care professionals, and 5,000 hospitals.

With both insurance plans, businesses have the ability to choose their desired level of coverage.  The goal of The Longview Chamber is to provide members with insurance choices that helps their bottom line with lower premium payments as well as a vehicle for controlling claims costs.  Most especially, the members have asked for and will now receive a product that will reduce their operating costs while protecting the Longview economic base.   

“Sensible Solutions” and “ChamberChoice” are products which provide members with a superior options to protect and retain employees.  Plus, these tools keeps our healthcare treatment at home while providing quality care and convenience and keeping our dollars local!

For more information about these programs you can visit http://www.longviewchamber.com or contact Kelly Hall at  the Chamber, 903-237-4004 or president@longviewtx.com.

 

 

 

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