Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in hospitality service but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alex Thalassinos, SVP, Strategy & Operations of Silverware POS Inc., located in Markham, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We develop and implement advanced technology solutions built exclusively for the hospitality space. Our solutions are designed and delivered specifically for fanatical organizations about thrilling their guests. We are deliberate on who we target –our suite of solutions and ecosystem is purpose-built for sophisticated establishments, ranging from medium and large-sized independently operated restaurants to large chains, through to global hotel conglomerates.
Tell us about yourself
My father was a true entrepreneur. He developed the first version of Silverware in the basement of our childhood home. He then sold, implemented, and supported the technology. A true entrepreneur. No investors. A 'hustler' if you will. Just someone who saw a hole in the market and realized how technology could fill that gap. I had the opportunity to witness the type of grind that is required to operate a successful business my entire life. As the company continued to grow, so did the team around my father. Today, we have approximately 100 employees who we consider the 'Silverware Family.'
We've been at the forefront of driving change in the Food & Beverage space since our inception in 1992. Being part of that innovation as a child has helped me think critically and think outside of the box. I initially joined Silverware assisting with special projects, then moved into a Sales role before becoming our Business Development Manager.
Today, as the Head of Strategy & Operations at Silverware, I lead strategic initiatives, drive strategic opportunities that influence growth and profitability, and work with our leadership team to create operational efficiencies. I love driving change; this is what makes me tick.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Our biggest accomplishment has been realizing this type of exponential growth with no outside investment.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that comes with operating our business is managing the technology priorities. We are constantly pushing out new products to help our clients increase revenue streams and operate more efficiently. There is a consistent list of items on our roadmap.
Our clients trust us. Not just today, but they trust that we will constantly innovate and bring more to the table as we continue to grow together. The most challenging part is effectively predicting the future and prioritizing which products to focus on.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Think critically.
- Be agile.
- Don’t be scared to make a mistake.
- Grind.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.silverwarepos.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SilverWarePOS/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silverwarepos/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/silverwarepos
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/silverwarepos/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.
