Barbara Driggers is passionate about getting local and organic produce into American households. She supports the local farmers and businesses and places a high priority on education. She has a very common sense approach to running a business. She shares how developing good relationships with her customers helped her grow her business and get things done in the store. She wants to let entrepreneurs know that you can start a business even if you don’t have much money.
Tell me a little bit about yourself….
I’ve been on the island for fifteen years. I was semi-retired before I started this business. I’ve always been interested in working for myself. My mom had a lot of health issues and died in 1995. I was trying to figure out what was going on with her health. I realized that we needed to improve our diets. I started to buy organic food, but couldn’t find everything I was looking for in the stores. I started to sell local produce at a roadside stand.
Why did you start the business?
I wanted to start a business to sell local and organic produce. I knew we needed a store on Oak Island. I like supporting local farmers and introducing customers to their produce.
What is your vision for your business?
My goal is to have a one-stop health food store for local families and vacationers. I recently rented a second space in the same building which has more refrigeration. I want to sell grocery items, sustainable meats, juices, smoothies, organic oils, gluten-free food, supplements, beauty products, and environmentally friendly cleaning products.
I want to stress education. I currently invite local doctors and speakers to discuss a specific topic and to encourage us in a weekly health class. I also want to have cooking classes. My goal is to teach young families how to buy produce and cook healthy meals for their families. Instead of spending $12.00 at McDonald’s, they could buy organic eggs and bread to make breakfast or organic sandwiches for lunch. In the near future, Maters and Taters will be able to accept DSS cards so low-income families can shop at the store and buy organic and local food.
What challenges did you face in starting your business?
The challenge in starting a business is the financial aspect. I didn’t want to borrow any money. I used my own money to start this business. I looked for an affordable space to open a store. I’m at my second location now where I’ve been able to expand. When I started out I kept things simple, so if it didn’t work out, I would be able to close the doors and use the products myself. I didn’t want to incur any additional expenses, like leasing a van. I developed good relationships with my customers who have helped me do repairs and other things. I like to barter for services. I want to show entrepreneurs you can start a business with a little money.
How many employees do you have?
I have ten employees and volunteers to help me during the busy summer season. I have a minimum crew right now. To meet the health needs of my employees , a local doctor volunteers to help them when they are sick so they can get back on their feet.
How has the economy affected your business?
I started my business in a bad economy. The challenge is to get families with a tight budget to shop for organic food rather than fast food.
When did you start to work on your business versus in your business?
I feel comfortable with my employees to be able to leave the store so I can write and send out a newsletter and call local farmers to find out what produce they have available.
What’s the best part of owning your own business?
The best part is doing something you love and helping the community. When you buy local, you help the economy and it’s better for the environment. The farmers need our support. I want my grandchildren to know how important farmers are. I see my business as a cause. I believe in encouraging one person at a time. It feels good if I can help people learn something new. I want to educate people on how to improve their health, because if they’re healthy they’ll lower their healthcare costs too.
Another benefit is the freedom you have in setting your own hours and deciding your own income.
What’s the worst part of owning your own business?
Making sure my employees can keep their jobs. My husband has his own ideas on how I should do the business.
What do you worry about?
My biggest concern is attracting more customers. Finding produce is my secondary concern.
Do you do some marketing?
I write and email a weekly newsletter about health information. During the summer I let my customers know what is in the basket of organic produce that they can order. I like to put together a different assortment each time so my customers can try new fruits and vegetables.
I started to run an ad in the local newspaper. A lot of people in the local area don’t know about the store. Other businesses in the community want you to support them. So you need to choose which ones. I support three local businesses by spending at least $50.00 per month.
What advice would you give someone who wants to start a business or who has a good idea?
Be dedicated and don’t give up. Start out with small daily goals. The daily goals can be increased to larger goals.
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