Olson Pre-Cast Concrete
Owner: Seth Freeman
Location: West Plains, Mo.
History: “I got my start in this business, hauling concrete,” Seth shared with a smile on a sunny day at Olson Pre-Cast Concrete in West Plains. “I hauled for Stewart Morrison, a ready mix concrete company next door. “Then one day I walked in here and Larry Olson said he was ready to sell. And that’s all it took. I’ve been the owner for the last 17 years, since 1995. There are three of us who work here.”
Farm and Ranch Services: “We have seven different styles of feed bunks and frost proof water tanks for use with automatic waterers. We also make cattle guards, septic tanks and storm shelters, all of which are of real interest to folks in agriculture. In addition to these products, we also make parking curbs, picnic tables, manhole covers, landscaping blocks, steps and air conditioner pads.”
Commentary: “Like the rest of the construction industry, the economy is a problem right now, with so few houses under construction. It really hurts with the septic tank business. Of course, spring and summer are the best times in this business and the winter months are the worst when you can’t do a lot.” He smiled again and shrugged. “I’m engaged now and no matter what, we’ll hang in there. The truth is, I’ve enjoyed both the concrete hauling and the pre-cast business so I got no complaints.”
Story and Photo by Laura L. Valenti
