Eagle River Business Reinvigorated Under New Ownership
Buying an existing business, even one you’ve worked at for several years, is a lot to take on. Understanding the financial history, reestablishing supplier relationships and maintaining current customers while trying to bring in new ones, is all part of the intricate equation of a successful changeover. Debra Lindsay-Hudgins learned this firsthand when she purchased Artworks Gallery & Glass in Eagle River.
Artworks features handcrafted work from over 24 Alaskan artists as well as other prominent artists throughout the US. Their showroom includes an eclectic collection of stained glass, fused glass, pottery, mixed media items, jewelry and all things creative. Take one step into the showroom and you’ll find a dozen things that catch your eye, making it nearly impossible to leave empty handed.
In addition, Artworks also stocks a wide variety of glass and other supplies for local glass artists, and holds popular stained and fused glass classes. Whether you are a beginner or an expert – or simply looking for a great girls night out or birthday party idea, the workshops are perfect.
As she prepared to take over the business, Debra visited the Alaska Small Business Development Center and started to meet with Business Advisor Kimberlee Hayward. Debra was one of the first clients to benefit long term from Kimberlee’s specialized marketing assistance and extensive experience in web design. With regular meetings over the course of several months, Kimberlee and Debra worked on an effective and orderly marketing plan to help increase foot traffic early on in Debra’s takeover.
“When purchasing the shop, SBDC helped me assemble and perfect my business plan and estimate my start-up and monthly expenses through ProfitCents,” said Debra. “I also benefitted from their expertise as I developed my marketing plan, created a website and updated my social media, advertising, email system and promotional calendar.”
Artworks is located on the Old Glenn Highway in Eagle River, across the street from Carr’s. Learn more about the business and check out some of their products by visiting their website or following them on Facebook.
