Last Update: Wednesday August 20, 2008

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Can a family-owned hardware store survive?

DeLand, Florida: Just northeast of Orlando, this town personifies the statement, "Big business homogenizes. Small business diversifies."

On the Main Street of this town they celebrate the rich variety of one-of-a kind shops owned by locals. Just on the outskirts of town looms Lowes and Home Depot.

How does a family-owned hardware store on Main Street survive? How can they compete? We do not have any simple answers. We do know that small businesses must develop a many-sided customer relation that competes in value against the volume discounts of the "big box" retailers.

Drop in on Feasel's on Main Street, buy something, and talk with the new folks. Encourage their esprit de corps for the continued Main Street revitalization. Cited by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as a "Great American Main Street" award winner, the people of Feasel Paint & Glass are helping to paint that picture.

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Twelve Key Ideas to inspire you... Or, just click on the image.

	1. Become a local icon 2. Find a deep spiritual connection to work 3. Make marketing personal (All the Key Ideas) For more, go to the homepage of this episode and meet Marc Katz of Katz's Deli, Austin, Texas. Key Question: How do I start a business?"
	4. Think Big From Day One. 5. Build with People Your Know 6. Go to all the Key Ideas and videos For more, go to the homepage of this episode and Jodi Johnson and learn how she developed a multi-million dollar business. Key Question: What is a path for growth?
	7. Acquire your competition! 8. Dream impossible dreams 9. Customize for Key Customers (All the Key Ideas) For more, go to the homepage of this episode and meet the Souto brothers of Rowland Coffee Roasters, Miami Key Question: Can my business be my legacy?
	10. Sell part of your business to employees. 11. Do a Business Valuation 12. Teach Ownership (Go to All the Key Ideas) For more, go to the homepage of this episode; meet Ray Smilor and four business owners who use the ESOP effectively. Key Question: Who is the best buyer?