David Storm first came to the Allegany Business Center in August of 2006. After working in the Belfast Hardware store for 10 years, David found himself out of a job following the store’s closing. The store had been a downtown fixture for over a century; David felt it could be a success. He attended the Business Center’s Entrepreneurial class and sought technical training from a Business Counselor.
Storm’s Belfast Hardware opened in October of 2006, offering customers a wide array of hardware; from plumbing to electrical and much more. In addition, David offers cut glass, hand cut & threaded pipe, installation of replacement screens and custom-built screens. He is currently working on custom-built screens for a local college. His gross sales have increased 400% since his opening. He plans on expanding his screen building business, and is currently developing “how-to” classes.
David cites the class as being “invaluable” to new business owners, stating that “I learned that there was a lot to running a business; a lot more than what you think.” Learning break-even analysis was crucial to him, and he says “new business owners better love what you do, because your business will become your life.” |