Durango Running Company owner, Brett Sublett had lots of experience in the outdoor retail and athletic shoe industries but had never owned his own store.
Sublett had managed Your Running Store for four years and then became the footwear buyer at Back Country Experience for three years. He also knew a lot about running and running shoes since he Coached Cross Country at Fort Lewis.
When Sublett decided he wanted his own store, he contacted the SBDC and initially spoke to advisor Joe Keck. Keck asked about his personal experience in the industry, and what his qualifications were to venture out on his own. Sublett explained his prior experience and presented a rough outline of his business plan. Keck made sure all the major points were covered and the two discussed what kind of entity the business would be and how to file with the state. Sublett chose LLC – Limited Liability Company for his new business – Durango Running Company.
He also consulted with an attorney and an accountant and the business was formed.
Advisor Joe Bishop then helped with the hunt for the perfect retail location. “He pointed out the possible pitfalls and red flags and told me what to look for in a location and a lease agreement. One of the most important things Joe taught me was that I didn’t have to just accept what the landlord proposed. I could negotiate.”
Sublett didn’t realize he had leverage and Bishop’s advice gave him the confidence and strength to negotiate a lease that worked for both parties. They reviewed a few leases and looked at a few spaces before deciding on 473 E. College Drive – next to Home Slice Pizza. Sublett confesses to grabbing quite a few quick lunches right next door, as the smell is hard to ignore.
Sublett was very impressed with “the timely manner in which Joe Bishop responded to my questions.” He’d shoot an email out with a question and even if it was Sunday night- Joe Bishop got back to him quickly.
Sublett explains, “Opening a new business can be scary. The accessibility of advisors in this program is outstanding. The process was unintimidating, they were welcoming and it was easy to get an appointment. The expertise of the advisors is invaluable in helping a new business owner navigate all that needs to be done.”
