Nancy Avalos

PROPRIETOR

ROYAL DELI

112 W Front St.

(419) 874-7451

Royal Deli Foods on Facebook

How was this business started? We have always been in the food service business, we noticed that a need for home-delivered meals existed, so we followed our hearts and ended up where we are.

What inspired you to enter into this field? My mother became ill and needed meals. I started cooking for her and decided I wanted to do this service for other people who need this.

What were the steepest challenges in creating this business? Actually there were so many challenges in the first year, it was just a blur. So I would ay the first year was our steepest challenge – all of it.

What does your support system look like? Her name is Bonnie. I also have my wife Heather of 25 years, and three daughters. My oldest, Gwen, joined the family business as our leasing manager last year and is making her dad proud!

What sets you apart from other businesses in your industry? Our community of 44 units allows the tenants to really get to know each other. The morning coffee and pastries and afternoon snacks gives them the opportunity to socialize and participate in the many activities available.

If you’re thinking about starting a business, you should… Make sure that whatever you pick doesn’t feel like work. You should enjoy it and work every day to get better at it. If it feels like work, you just bought yourself a job!

What does your support system look like? I have a wonderful support system. Our daughter and son both work here and keep me going. We also have a grandson and granddaughter here so we are full of family support.

How did you determine your business’ big picture goals? Have you met them? Our big picture goal was really to enjoy what we do, and we have accomplished that.