OWNERS: CRAIG & MAGGIE COPPENBARGER

1. Briefly describe Meyer's Market and the products/services offered.

A general store with something for everyone!

2. How did you get started as a small business owner?

My journey began when I started my own tax business, Olive Branch Accounting, in downtown Knob. I knew that the town needed more and thought a general store that everyone could find something at, would be a great fit!

3. What was your mission at the start of Meyer's Market and has that mission evolved over time?

Honestly groceries. At the time, Knob didn't have a grocery store. I thought it would be convenient to have somewhere that you could grab that random onion or tomato you needed at dinner, without having to drive all the way to Warrensburg.

4. How many employees does Meyer's Market have?

8

5. What is unique about Meyer's Market?

Just our variety of offerings. Knob has grown to have groceries, gifts, toys, wine, a sandwich and smoothie deli and more. We opened Warrensburg about two years ago and the opportunities to add items there is endless. We even have boozy ice cream there!

6. How much time did it take for Meyer's Market to earn a profit?

Honestly, we are still working towards that goal and mainly for the mere fact that we reinvest our profits into opening more businesses and rentals. But that freedom is a form of profit, so would say the first year!

7. What has been a significant challenge that you have faced and overcome as a small business owner?

Employees and the pandemic - we started the Warrensburg store a few months after covid "hit". The most time consuming facet of business is scheduling, payroll, training etc.

8. As a small business owner, how do you measure success?

Smiles. It might be a customers smile, a child eating ice cream or (and most importantly to me) our employees smiling because they enjoy being at work.

9. What do you like most about owning a small business?

The freedom. I have been able to bring my kids to work, work around their busy lives and ultimately feel a sense of accomplishment that I never received in the corporate accounting world.

10. What piece of advice would you offer to new entrepreneurs?

Don't give up and you CANNOT make everyone happy. Set your personal goals, do your best and the rest will fall into place.