David Lewis from The Wheel Chair Shop shares how he decided to open his own business and how Horizon has helped it grow.
What inspired you to open your own business?
In 1989, I had a motorcycle wreck that left me paralyzed from the waist down. At the time, I was going to college and needed all the necessities to continue going about my day-to-day life. As I started getting all the equipment, I saw areas so much opportunity for improvement, and I started making modifications. As others saw the alterations I was making, they wanted similar alterations made to their equipment, and from there, it mushroomed into a business opportunity.
What were your biggest concerns about starting your own business?
Honestly, I had no real concerns. From the work I’d already been doing, I knew I had a client base, and I knew I had a unique product that filled a definite need.
What business steps did you take to get to where are you today?
I finished college, and graduated with a business degree, which helped me fine-tune my business plan and professional skill set. From the experience I’d already gained as an undergraduate, I had the benefit of first-hand experience, and the recognition that there was an enormous industry need that was left completely unfilled. The fact that I’m good with my hands, and I’m mechanically inclined facilitated my entry into a full-scale business, and the rest just happened
What major challenges and obstacles did you face in the process of opening your business?
Opening my business, the only real challenge I faced was finding good reliable help, but that’s an obstacle I think most new business owners face.
What have been the most valuable lessons you’ve learned throughout the process?
From start to finish, the most important thing to remember is that taking care of the customer is number one. Word of mouth is the most powerful form of advertising — much more so than print, so it’s crucial to ensure that each and every customer leaves satisfied. The second thing, is taking care of your employees, because ultimately, they are the liaison between the company and client, and they’re a big part of guaranteeing a positive customer experience.
How has your relationship with Horizon Bank helped your business?
When I first decided to open a business, Mike Brown, a commercial loan officer at Horizon Bank, helped me with all the small business administration paperwork, which gave me the financing to buy the building that currently houses The Wheel Chair Shop. With his advising, and a successful business plan, I’m proud to say that, just a few weeks ago, I was able to pay off that initial loan in just 8 years.
Anything else you would like us to mention about your business?
The Wheel Chair Shop services much more than wheel chairs. We handle vehicle modifications, home modifications, elevator installations, stair lifts, and more. Basically, our goal is to provide the tools necessary for anyone with a disability to be fully mobile. Horizon Bank helped out a lot with making that dream a reality.
This is part of our Small Business Spotlight series on local businesses in the Michiana area that have partnered with Horizon Bank to help their organization grow.