The Old Mans Place
Owner: Terry Saunders
Location: Reeds Spring, Mo.
History: “I got started in the feed business after hurting my back when I had a body shop. That turned into a tire shop, which added a feed store component when a nearby feed store owner retired. I bought him out and brought his business here. I’ve had the tire shop for 18 years and the feed store for 12. My son, Palladin, has worked with me since I started the feed business. He does the heavy lifting and tire work while I take care of the rest.”
Products and Services: “Half my business is farmers. I carry Tindle, Crescent and Nutrena feeds of varying protein levels and can get show feed, but most of my customers are small cattle farmers, chicken farmers, or horse enthusiasts and don’t use it. I also carry Pro Manna. I have corn for hunters and others who just watch them in their backyard. In addition, I offer 10 different kinds of dog foods at a variety of price points. I stock grass seed such as rye grass, Kentucky 31 and fescue, and fertilizers for lawns and landscaping but no field fertilizers. In addition to tires for cars, we sell tractor, pickup, four wheeler and utility vehicle tires. A business like ours must also carry a little bit of everything with inventory changing daily according to what I find and what people need such as tools, pocket knives, and hardware supplies. We even carry baseball cards in addition to die cast toy cars and little crystal figurines.”
Philosophy: “This business is totally dependent upon return customers which makes me the door greeter. I act like a friend because if you aren’t one yet, you will be soon. I go out of my way to help solve problems, including those rare times when it has to do with my products or services.”
Future: “I have another building in the back I am considering renting for a small engine repair business. My biggest hope for the future is that the government realizes this country is moving toward more small businesses and keeps that fact in mind when considering new legislation. Much of the time small business owners can only make it by a song and a prayer.”
