Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food & beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Clint Thompson, owner of Scotsman's Well, a friendly neighbourhood pub located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a neighbourhood pub that strives to be part of our local community. We strive to be a central part of our neighbourhood where people can meet for food & drink. We try and get involved in as many fundraisers as we can to help our community. We have become a local sports hub for people to come down and cheer on our local sports team.
Tell us about yourself
I started working in the hospitality industry at a very young age, 13yrs old. I really enjoyed the fast pace and meeting so many different people from different walks of life. Every day is different good & bad, but it keeps you on your toes, especially during these trying times (COVID). I love dealing with the public and have met so many amazing people with great stories. This is why I decided 30 yrs ago to focus on the pub business.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Surviving COVID and was able to keep our business and staff afloat! This wouldn't have been possible without the unbelievable help of my wife and boys. It was fun (and stressful) coming together as a team to plow through these most difficult times. Plus, moving to Calgary and building the Scotsman's Well, being in business now for 14 yrs and meeting so many great people.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Keeping relevant, being flexible moving with the changing times, and hiring good people that have the same goals as you. Our industry is very competitive and changing all the time; try not to keep complacent.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Never stand pat, always keep evolving.
- Watch your nickels & dimes; a $1 savings is very important.
- Even with social media, our business is still face-to-face with your clientele, making sure their experience is positive and hopefully come back!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Our industry is a celebratory atmosphere that is great, but as owners & staff, you can't get caught up in it. At the end of the day, it is a business that needs care & attention!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://scotsmanswell.com/
Instagram: @scotsmanswell
Facebook: @ScotsmansWellPub
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.
