Simon Cassar first contacted the Central Coast SBDC in 2003 to review his business plan and start a home-based cleaning product business.  He returned in 2005 to develop a strategic plan for his invention of a connector that makes a push broom and dust mop unbreakable and ergonomic. The product created such a demand that Cassar applied for a business loan and contacted the SBDC in 2007 to meet with Advisor Linda Johnson to focus on a marketing plan with a goal of obtaining large volume national accounts.

After his business loan was approved, Cassar moved into manufacturing space on Hangar Way in Watsonville and began production.  Johnson advised Cassar on customer presentations, materials and relationship building. Within 6 months, Cassar had increased sales 600%, hired 3 employees and worked with Johnson to obtain a line of credit to build inventory. Two of Cassar’s new hires came from Hope Services, a program Johnson introduced to him that provides trained disabled workers for local businesses. As a result of SBDC assistance, Cassar met all sales for 2007 and developed 8 strong accounts.
 
In the Fall of 2008 Cassar continued expanding his ability to reach national customers by entering into a partnership to create an Eastern U.S. Division and streamlining delivery of large orders. He expects a 20% increase in sales by year end. Cassar also entered into trade shows at Johnson’s urging and is currently developing private branding with a larger distributor he met at a show, leading to a potential 500% sales increase in 2009 and another facility expansion!

Client Statement: “The SBDC was instrumental in obtaining our business growth.  Linda Johnson helped push the idea of trade shows that increased our business.  She also helped in preparing a concise and valid business plan that helped obtain the necessary loans for growth.  Without the SBDC, this could not be done.”

Client:
Flexsweep
Cassar Industries, Inc.
2431 Tuckahoe Terrace
Watsonville, CA  95076
www.flexsweep.com

SBDC Advisor: Linda Johnson
Central Coast SBDC
lindajohnsonh@yahoo.com