4 minute read
Business Snapshot
Reinventing The Office
iSpace Opens State-of-the-Art Showroom in Mankato
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Let’s face it, these days “work” spaces are so much more than just a place to get work done. That’s important, yes, but those spaces are also used to engage others, to learn, even to relax. Where these spaces may be found has also changed. Work may be in a traditional office space, a co-working lounge or even in one’s home. iSpace Environments has also reimagined itself, bringing its integrated solutions of architectural products, furniture, technology and professional services to a state-ofthe-art showroom in downtown Mankato.
“We excel at shaping environments that inspire, enable and empower individuals through imaginative, intelligent and intuitive solutions,” says Dan White, who serves as director of sales for furniture and architectural products. He is just one member of a customer-focused team of talented enthusiasts with one mission: create the best space, the best environment, according to each individual client’s needs.
“It starts with getting to know our clients, understanding the goals they want to achieve, and providing solutions that will get them there,” says White. “People can buy office furniture anywhere. But we focus our energy on the whole experience. We want to show people how we can improve their whole environment; it goes beyond furniture.” iSpace Environments follows a three-phase approach to the customer relationship. The first phase is discovery. The team takes the time to discover the unique details about your company. Then they research and design the best solutions. Third, they effectively deliver the project while aiming to exceed your expectations. Moreover, iSpace will repeat the process with you to support your company’s evolution into the future.
It’s an approach iSpace brought to the Mankato market in 2016. White was tapped to lead the charge in the company’s first out-state location – a location the company is investing time and resources in, most notably beefing up staff and creating a beautiful showroom in the downtown Graif Building.
“This showroom is a great example of all we have to offer,” says White. “It’s in the heart of the City Center because being involved in the community, supporting our local partners, it’s all a part of the big picture for iSpace and one reason we’ve been so successful in this market.”
The new showroom will open in November. Make an appointment to schedule a tour or meet with the iSpace team.
iSpace Environments Inc.
5 Civic Center Plaza Mankato, MN 56001 Website: ispaceenvironments.com Facebook: @iSpaceEnvironments
Mary Kaus, Account Executive; Dan White, Director of Sales-Furniture; Becca Roberson, Sales Coordinator.
Jane Laskey
EDITOR
A Strong Close to 2021
We close out 2021 with a bang! Despite supply chain issues and labor shortages, Minnesota businesses are quickly regaining lost ground after the pandemic shock of 2020.
Our cover story highlights Kahler Automation in Fairmont. If you’ve driven by a large grain elevator or ethanol plant, chances are you’ve seen its products in action. A leader in the automation industry, it delivers automation solutions for processing bulk goods. Now in its 30th year, Kahler Automation welcomes a new CEO, John Christ, to its leadership team.
Wells Concrete’s architectural and structural precast concrete products appear in many buildings in our region. After 70 years in business, its original Wells plant is still in action, and the company has expanded throughout the U.S.
If there were an award for longevity, it would go to Blue Earth Monument, founded in 1877. Although its memorial etchings are no longer made with a hammer and a chisel, its focus remains the same: telling the final stories of Blue Earth’s residents.
Our three features look at current trends in a variety of business sectors. First, our Groundbreaker interview with Greg Goebel at Investors Commodity Services Inc. examines the commodity futures market and its impacts on area farmers and investors. Next, the Business Trends section focuses on the rise in new business formations and the impact the growing demand for electric vehicles will have on our area. Finally, this month’s Special Report details the popular Entrepreneurial Operating System, a business management system.
Finally, our HotStartz! section highlights three new businesses: Sadaka’s Deli in Mankato, and Ouren Instruments and Minnesota Wing King, both in St. Peter. Here’s wishing you all a successful close to 2021!
Jane Laskey
CONFUSED
CONFIDENT
Businesses continue to feel the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the right advisor can help you take advantage of new opportunities. The Employee Retention Credit, which is designed to help and encourage employers keep employees on their payroll, could provide you up to $7,000 per employee!
