BusinessLink March 2020

Page 1

BUSINESS LINK THE HILL COUNTRY’S PREMIER BUSINESS PUBLICATION

Vol. 8, Issue 3 • March 2020

COVER STORY

MAKE IT IN

KERR Manufacturing could play a major role in Kerr County’s future, and companies like All-Plastics will lead the way in driving this growth


Business Link KERRVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 1700 Sidney Baker St., Suite 100, Kerrville, TX 78028 PHONE: 830-896-1155 | FAX: 830-896-1175 | kerrvilletx.com

CHAMBER LEADERSHIP CHAMBER STAFF Tim Rye | Chair Peterson Medical Associates Lisa Winters | Past Board Chair Peterson Health Allison Bueche | Leadership Kerr County Kerrville Public Utility Board Tricia Byrom | Secretary Guadalupe Bank Mike Wittler | Chair Elect, Policy & Governance Kerrville Public Utility Board Justin Foster | Treasurer Community First National Bank Brian Bowers | 1st Vice Chair Government Affairs Centennial Bank Michael Anglin | Communications ARTIFEX42 Summer West | Events and Fundraising Alegria Barn E Kerry Sutton | Membership HCTC Shawna Fahrenthold | Education Alamo Colleges Sue Tiemann Brinkman Preferred Properties David Reast Schreiner University Rose Bradshaw So Fast Printing Clint Fiore Texas Business Buyers, LLC Colby Johle Brookdale Guadalupe River Plaza

E. Walter “Walt” Koenig III |President and CEO walt@kerrvilletx.com Rachel London | Vice President and COO rachel@kerrvilletx.com Penni Coggins | Director of Finance penni@kerrvilletx.com Angela North | Director of Membership angela@kerrvilletx.com Sydney Blain | Marketing Manager sydney@kerrvilletx.com Jennifer Lord | Receptionist info@kerrvilletx.com

BUSINESS LINK STAFF Carlina Villalpando, Publisher Louis Amestoy, Managing Editor Jeanette Nash, Asst. anaging Editor Tom Holden, Photographer John Doran, Advertising Director Advertising: Brandon Baldwin, Valerie Tucker and Luly Bliss Composing: Manager Dean Heep and Johanna Rangel

A PUBLICATION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

These micro parts are just some of the products made in Kerrville by All-Plastics. For more please see page 12.

2 BusinessLink • March 2020

Kerrville needs a strong economic development voice run by businesses By E. Walter Koenig III

T

Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce

he reality that we all face is that it’s an incredibly competitive world. The competitive landscape is particularly acute in the State of Texas. Top-flight companies are moving to Texas but they are very selective and deliberate in how they choose to invest and on where they choose to locate. If we, as a community aren’t proactively working to attract companies and if we don’t have the necessary incentives on offer to gain their commitment to establish in Kerrville, we will certainly lose and miss valuable opportunities in this challenging market. We will also lose, to some degree, control of our own destiny. Primary jobs are defined as those jobs that produce goods and services that are consumed outside Kerr County. This class of jobs is important since they bring new revenue into our local economy. The Kerr Economic Development Corporation is focused on both supporting local and recruiting new companies who provide primary jobs. Our local manufacturers are one key provider of primary jobs. To effectively grow and diversify our economy, we need to continually grow the number of primary jobs available to our local workforce. In the encouragement of thoughtful, planned growth of our manufacturing capacity, we view the engagement and recruitment of the best companies to join our community as fundamental. We want companies that bring high paying jobs and who operate in an environmentally friendly fashion. We want companies who are community-minded and involved. We want companies who have the financial strength and strategic position to survive and thrive over the long term. We also understand that every community wants this type of company and that to be successful, we need to compete to win. We also support and encourage the promotion of opportunities for all citizens and future generations. We support the growth of our middle class and middle class families. This demographic shift requires the addition of high quality, career-oriented jobs, to our community. We must also and perhaps more importantly capture the imagination and provide opportunities for our young people. We need to insure that whether a student is graduating from Tivy High School or from one of our great Universities that they need to have the opportunity to establish a life and a career in our community. To achieve this we again need more high quality, career-oriented jobs provided by the best companies. In order to attract the kind of companies to our community who will ultimately support the growth of our local economy requires concerted, proactive and effective economic development efforts. We are fortunate to have a great team that spans all of the required disciplines to address the emerging opportunities. While we have work to do to truly be a great place to do business, we have seen real progress and we are gaining traction on a number of fronts. The Chamber is committed to the continued support a competitive and successful economy by working hard on all fronts to ensure that Kerrville has the necessary tools and facilities to continue to effectively compete to attract and retain the finest companies possible. We view the maintenance of a business-led economic development corporation as essential to the continued progress and success that we are enjoying.


Table of CONTENTS Membership

Get to Know People & Places Events Leadership & Education

3


MEMBERSHIP

January Membership New Members Bronze

Sendera Springs - Hannak Plucheck - 830895-2691 Ellis Insurance Agency - Kevin Johnson 210-979-9000 DNA Hair Studio on Broadway - Deena Foster - 830-896-2881 A Child's Place Learning Center - Julie Behrens - 830-792-3770 Sealcoat Specialists - Jenny Martin - 830315-2100 Kroneal Coaching & Training - Kenneth O'Neal - 830-285-7010 Kerrville Area Toastmasters - Kenneth O'Neal - 830-285-7010 Fuddruckers - Martin Miller - 830-8950519 Knight Remodeling - Edward Knight 830-343-8824 Greater Texas Solar - Andi Parker-Kimbrough - 817-822-2312

Individual

Eli Garcia - 830-285-1594

Renewals Individual

Morris E. Tenery

Bronze

A3 Studio AMVET'S Post 1000 Any Baby Can Aqua Beverage Co./ Ozarka Water Arrow Z Ranch Art2Heart Audio Video Technologies B.C. Collision Center Benefit Solutions Bill's Bar-B-Que & Catering Service Books To Share Browning Warehouse Self Storage Buzzie's Barbecue City Storage Clima Storage at The West Kerr Center Coldwell Banker - Ron Hackett Comfort Place Apartments Creative Business Breakthroughs Culvers of Kerrville Custom Glass & Mirror Dairy Queen - River Oaks

4 BusinessLink • March 2020

Moore’s Home Furnishing’s is one of Kerrville’s oldest businesses and renewed its Diamond-level membership in March. Last year, the furniture store was named one of the top businesses in the community. The initial family business was started in 1892 by Tom Moore in Ingram, Texas and throughout the years has consisted of many different operations including general store, lumber and furniture. David Rittenhouse & Associates, Inc. Davis Bonding Company, LP Designs N Such DOCUmation Edward Jones - Bryon Mein Edward Jones- Zach Riffett Foxworth-Galbraith Lumber Co. Garrett Auctions Gregory R. Seibert, CPA Herring Printing Hill Country Cafe, a Texas Legend Hill Country Dist. Jr. Livestock Show Hill Country Stone, Inc. J M Lowe & Company Kerr Emergency 911 Network Kerrville Aviation Kerrville Board of Realtors, Inc. Kerrville Clock Company Mountain Villa Assisted Living NobiliTea R & R Pest Control Residential Finance Corp. Rhodes Construction Royal Pane Window Cleaning San Saba Cap & Apparel, Inc. Schilling Overhead Door Co.

Tenery Service Terminix Pest Control Voo Voo Vintage Y.M.C.A. - Kerr County

Silver

Boy Scouts of America, Alamo Area Council Chicken Express Creative Cabinets, Inc. Davidson Freedle Espenhover & Overby, P.C Days Inn Kerrville First Baptist Church Ingram I.S.D. Motel 6 of Kerrville Museum of Western Art, The The Ultimate Gift of Life Foundation Upper Guadalupe River Authority Wayland Baptist University West Central Wireless

Gold

Cecil Atkission Motors - Kerrville Guadalupe Bank Huser Construction Company, Inc. Kerrville Public Utility Board Mooney International Corp.


MEMBERSHIP Riverhill Country Club, Inc.

Right at Home Hill Country - Jeff Clark - 830315-3131

Moss Motors Old River Road RV Resort Platinum Rezults Atmos Energy Individual S & S Self Storage Kerrville State Hospital Mike McBain - 888-692-4246 St. Paul's United Methodist Church LeMeilleur's RV, Truck & Equipment Stevens Rich, PLLC Y.O. Ranch Hotel and Conference Center Renewals Terminix Pest Control Individual The Party Affair Diamond Morgan, Bill & Margie Inn of the Hills Hotel Silver Martin Marietta Bronze Colonial Oaks Apartments Moore's Home Furnishings Air Med Care/Air Evac Lifeteam Kerr Arts & Cultural Center, Inc. AMVET'S Post 1000 Majestic Trees Apothecary Shoppe February Membership Bandera Electric Cooperative Gold New Members BBVA Compass Bank Kerrville Folk Festival Foundation Bronze Coldwell Banker - Linda Stilwell The Museum of Western Art Casita Blu Properties - Brian Olsen - 651-216Comfort Place Apartments University Health System 0030 Cruces Cedar Clearing, LLC Five Star Deck Pros - Royce McDaniels - 830First Presbyterian Church Platinum 890-1583 Gateway Printing and Office Supply Inc. Guadalupe Bank Kerrville Pets Alive - Karen Guerriero - 713Grace Academy of Kerrville LeMeilleur's RV, Truck & Equipment 855-6291 Gregory R. Seibert, CPA Makayla's Cleaning Service - Carmelina Hill Country Septic Service Diamond Valenzuela - 830-955-5828 Kerr County Federal Credit Union Navarra Window Cleaning - Anthony Navarra Hilltop Village Nursing & Rehabilitation KWIKSIGNS Martin Marietta - 830-896-8279 Monroe's East End Grill Rezultz - Raenna Willis - 830-792-0700

Quarter Page Community First 0190

Quarter Page LeMeilleurs 7426

HOME SWEET HOME

• Quick Turn Around • Buyer Education • Local Market Knowledge • Competitive Rates Jeff Harris

Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS ID 1678994

1101 JUNCTION HIGHWAY • KERRVILLE, TEXAS 78028 (830) 315-2362 • WWW.CFNBTEXAS.COM

5


COFFEE TALK MARCH COFFEE TALK

➤ The March Coffee Talk at the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce featured a presenation from the Precinct 2 Prosperity Program, which aims to reverse longheld alcohol prohibitions in that part of Kerr County. According to the website of the intiative: Our mission is to pass legislation that will legalize the sale of all alcholic beverages, including mixed beverages in Precinct 2 with a vision to bring increased economic opportunities to our region. The group will be collecting signatures to have the item placed on the Nov. 3 General Election. Claudia Richards is helping lead the initiative with the support of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce.

Above: Claudia Richards, standing left, and Rachel London, vice president at the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce, discuss the need for the Precinct 2 Prosperity Program. Right: Richards and London show off a vest that will be worn by volunteers who will canvass Precinct 2 of Kerr County seeking signature to place the amendment to end restrictive drinking laws on the Nov. 3 General Election ballot.

6 BusinessLink • March 2020


RIBBON CUTTING

REGIONAL STANDARD TAXI LLC (pictured above)

➤ Regional Standard Taxi LLC provides transportation for Kerrville and surrounding areas will be celebrated their Grand Opening with a ribbon-cutting at the Chamber. The Chamber recognizes the importance of accessible transportation in the area and love having Regional Standard Taxi as one of our members. If you need a ride, give them a call at 830-370-3324.

UPPER GUADALUPE RIVER AUTHORITY

Cash

Prizes

Art Contest

Half Page UGRA Clean Up UGRA River ALL KERR COUNTY STUDENTS K-12TH GRADE ARE ELIGIBLE ENTRY DEADLINE IS MAY 8, 2020 7993

Winning Design Printed on All River Clean Up T-shirts

Entry Forms at www.ugra.org or Call (830) 896-5445 Join Us for the 17th Annual River Clean Up on July 25th! 7


2020 HILL COUNTRY ECONOMIC SUMMIT

HIGHER REACH Economic future of Kerrville seems ready to soar to new heights as new projects head this way in the near future Story by Sean Batura and Ariel Lutnesky news@dailytimes.com

T

he consensus among officials who offered presentations at Thursday’s economic summit in Kerrville was that the city is perfectly placed to become a regional retail hub and attract more blue- and whitecollar workers. An alliance of businesses, local government officials, nonprofits and economic development experts has pledged to make this a reality, as evidenced by the various presentations at the fourth annual Hill Country Economic Summit. “We want to take this community now to a whole different level,” said one of the event’s speakers, Gilberto Salinas, Kerr Economic Development Corporation chief operating officer. Rather than being known as a semi-retirement, outdoorsy community, officials and residents must welcome more manufacturing and high-tech companies, along with the necessary housing and amenities future workers will need, he said. But this can be done without sacrificing “quality of place” and while still making the area attractive to retirees, he indicated. Other officials also expressed confidence that a growth in industry and the county’s population — projected at about 10,000 more by 2050 — can happen while preserving the elements that make Kerrville a great place to retire and start families. "This community is such a special place to be, and I get to share that and I get to be inspired by you,” said Theresa Metcalf during her talk at the event. She leads business retention and development at KEDC.

8 BusinessLink • March 2020

Gil Salinas “We want to take this community to a whole different level.”

Theresa Metcalf “This community is such a special place to be, and I get to share this and I get to be inspired by you. I say this all the time: I get to live here, we get to live here and it’s really an incredible place.”


2020 HILL COUNTRY ECONOMIC SUMMIT REACTIONS

Keely Herod

Richard Elkins

Lynn Niles

“I'm kind of impressed with some of the statistics. I'm surprised at some of the population numbers, particularly on the younger side (in the Kerr County area). I didn't realize they were that high. That was enlightening.”

“The biggest takeaway is that this community’s EDC group has a good handle on what’s going on and is strategically looking at what’s needed and putting in place plans to make it happen. That’s great; that means it protects our quality of life.”

“The information presented by the Texas Workforce Commission and all of their many, many programs, was amazing. It made me think of some of our local groups that could very well utilize that if they’re not already.”

Alex Starovic “You need to know these things to see what direction (to go), and if it’s not good, what can we do to change it? I see that we’re vibrant, we have good people here, young people, and we’ve got to see what it takes to get our town going and what to do for young people in our future.”

Eighth Page NOW OPEN Lobby IN KERRVILLE Hobby 2101 Sidney Baker Street 7376 (830) 257-0144

Arts & Crafts, Party Supplies, Fabric, Home Decor & more...

Securities and Advisory Services offered through Sunbelt Securities, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC.

Wealth Management Alternative Investments Experienced Professionals 45+ years in combined experience John Fleckenstein II 210-202-1340 www.SunbeltSecurities.com John.Fleckenstein2@sunbeltsecurities.com

Hours: Monday – Saturday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm, Closed Sunday

9


2020 HILL COUNTRY ECONOMIC SUMMIT “I say this all the time: I get to live here, we get to live here and it’s really an incredible place,” Metcalf said. A lot of the growth in Kerr County is expected to be enabled by the sewer infrastructure being laid in the eastern part of the county toward Comfort, Salinas said. He said it’s “too late” for Kerrville to have a say in avoiding some of the growth that’s come to communities in Boerne. “It’s a good thing,” Salinas added. The keynote speaker at the event, housing economist Jim Gaines, presented data indicating there will be growth in Texas spreading out from the San Antonio area. Gaines said the state will gain from 22 million to 30 million people by 2050 — the number-one state for this growth — although he added that various projections may change with the next U.S. Census. Current estimates indicate 55 %t of the increase will be from Americans migrating from other states, while 45 percent is expected to be from people moving from other countries, he said. Officials stressed the need for a better-trained workforce to accommodate healthy growth and continue the high quality of life in the Hill Country. Dale Robertson of the Texas Workforce Commission spoke to attendees of employee training grants available from the agency. One grant offers up to $1,800 for the training of full-time employees hired less than a year ago. Another grant is available for employees who have been working longer for a company. More information about these grants can be found at https://bit.ly/38rS8iK. Julian Alvarez III, commissioner representing labor, Texas

Quarter Page MG Bldg. 0357

10 BusinessLink • March 2020

Workforce Commission, was a speaker at the summit. He spoke of a $150,000 matching grant available for workforce development, which could mean new equipment for a high school. He also spoke of the commission’s commitment to helping disabled people, underprivileged children, and felons get workforce training. The summit, a Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce event that drew about 250 people to the Hill Country Youth Event Center, was planned by members of a committee that included Brian Bowers, Zach Riffet, Colby Johle and Michael Anglin. Event sponsors included Kerr County Abstract and Title, KEDC, Edward Jones, Brookdale Senior Living Solutions, Texas Business Buyers, HCTC, Centennial Bank, So Fast Printing, Community 1st National Bank and Alamo Colleges District. Other people who spoke at the event included representatives of the Arcadia Theater Group, Kerrville City Manager Mark McDaniel and chamber CEO Walt Koenig. “I believe 2020’s going to be a breakout year for Kerrville in many ways.” Koenig said to attendees just before the event finished. “Pull together, work together and support each other as we always do, and I think 2020's going to be an outstanding year." In a segment on housing, Michael Prats of Community Development Strategies told attendees that Kerrville is “pretty much at 100% occupancy” in terms of multifamily development. And the housing market is just about as tight. “You have a really good inventory if you want a million-plus house,” said James P. Gaines, the summit’s keynote speaker.

Quarter Page Dietert Center 7425


James Gaines, a housing economist from Texas A&M, was the key note speaker at the Hill Country Economic Summit. Gaines, a housing economist at the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, presented data showing Kerr County median home prices increasing steadily — by an average of 7.2 percent a year — since 2011. The average price was $314,606 for the first 11 months of 2019, or $147 per square foot. In January, it was $519,632, or $217 per square foot, according to the data. According to a housing survey and strategic plan commissioned

Quarter Page SSB&T 6245

by the city and available at https://bit.ly/3bAzMOD, there were 971 households in Kerrville $35,000 and less who paid 30 percent or more on housing, 16% of all owner-occupied households and 10% of total households in the City. But very few homeowners were making more than $75,000 and paying greater than 30 percent of their income for housing, the survey found. Officials at the summit said more affordable and available housing will let companies know they can expand in Kerrville while finding adequate employees; and more housing will attract people willing to work and raise families here. Regarding the current home inventory, Gaines had this to say: Other data Gaines presented showed January home sales down 29.4 percent year over year. Even some of the few, more affordable homes that have been built recently were snapped up by one person, apparently, Gaines said. This unnamed person reportedly used the homes as “investment properties.” “2020 will probably be a good year (for housing development) if the builders can find developable lots at cost — if they can develop the lots at the right price bracket,” Gaines said. One of the benefits of having a company like D.R. Horton building a housing development like Vintage Heights (where homes are expected to be $227,000 or less) is that it can use some of its own money to offset land costs, Gaines said.

Quarter Page River Hill Mall • Little Aurora Ranch Cafe • Bath & Body Works • Kerrville Real Estate Co. • Burke’s Outlet 8732 • Level Up Arcade • Candi’s Hair Studio

• maurices • Claire’s Boutique • Pro Nails Salon • Cross Cultures • The Jewelry Box World Wide Imports • Tinsley Real Estate Executives • Factory Connection • General Nutrition Center • Hibbett Sports • Hill Country Telecommunications • J.C. Penney Styling Salon

Management Leasing 896-0606 • riverhillsmallkerrville.com

11


COVER STORY

MADE HERE Bringing in manufacturing jobs is a priority for community leaders Louis Amestoy

louis.amestoy@dailytimes.com During the 2020 Hill Country Economic Summit the emphasis on manufacturing took center stage, because that’s where many community leaders see the best opportunity for growth in

At All-Plastics in Kerrville products are made to support the medical community, but also the food and beverage community. It’s one of Kerrville’s busiest manufacturers.

12 BusinessLink • March 2020

the coming years. While Kerrville has had a history of manufacturing from Mooney airplanes to James Avery jewelry, the reality is that it’s accounted for about 5% of the community’s workforce over the last See XXX, page XA


M

Y

Y

Y

MANUFACTURING IN KERR COUNTY ➤ Since 2010, the number of manufacturing jobs have ebbed and flowed but have been at the highest levels in a decade in 2017-2018, according to the U.S. Census American Community Survey. During this period, Kerrville’s manufacturing jobs fell to a low of 854 jobs in 2011, but that climbed in 2017 to 1,265 people employed in the sector. The numbers acount for about 5% of the Kerr County workforce.

BBB Ad Kerrville.pdf

1

2/26/20

5:37 PM

Petition Circulation begins April 1, 2020

BBB helps build better businesses.

And, when businesses are better, their customers benefit. The following Kerrville-area businesses are celebrating milestone anniversaries as BBB Accredited Businesses: Hill Country Pools & Spas | 15 years TRA Homes Inc | 15 years JuAhn Skin Clinic | 13 years Steve Can Fix It | 12 years A+ Action Automotive, LLC | 7 years Earnest Roofing | 7 years Perry's Crane Service | 7 years

To find out more about how BBB can help you build a better business, visit whybbb.org.

Claudia Richards, Program Director

830-777-3881

crichards@precinct2prosperity.com info@precinct2prosperity.com www.precinct2prosperity.com 13


COVER STORY

All-Plastics Kerrville facility is a 24-7 operation and produces a wide range of component parts for various industries.

decade. Nearly one-third of the region’s 1,200-plus jobs in the manufacturing sector are with James Avery’s operation near the Kerrville-Kerr County Airport, but Kerr Economic Development Corporation Chief Operating Officer Gil Salinas says that’s about to change. “We are hopeful to make an announcement soon and that’s going to set the stage for us to really build a particular cluster that’s going to lead us to recruiting talent, which in turn is going to recruit the companies,” Salinas said. The expected development that KEDC will announce will be a high-tech manufacturer, most likely something affiliated with aerospace, but it’s a sign of things to come, according to Salinas. In reality, there are already several hightech operations in Kerrville that produce everything from medical parts, jewelry, oilfield tanks to the plastic basins that hold Chick-Fil-A lemonade. It also demonstrates that manufacturing doesn’t need a large footprint to be highly productive. The biggest, of course, is James Avery’s production facility near the airport. In all, more than 300 people are employed there to make charms, bracelets and other pieces of jewelry. It’s a state-of-the-art facility that

14 BusinessLink • March 2020

QUOTABLE ➤ I would be happy to have more (companies) like this. We are looking for companies that are paying good wages and offer good benefits.” Walt Koenig Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce hums along to make custom products and those for sale in the company’s retail stores. Around the corner from James Avery is Fox Tanks — another key manufacturer. Fox makes oilfield tanks that have been critical as the west Texas shale is developed. The company also makes the tanks that help separate oil from the water that comes up with the production. These are key components in the oil extraction process, and they’re made right here in Kerr County. Most people might drive by All-Plastics along Holdsworth Drive in north Kerrville and not know it’s there, but this plant is in operation 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is also one of the region’s most consequential employers and the type of manufacturing Kerrville’s economic leaders want to attract in the years to come.

“I would be happy to have more like this,” said Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Walt Koenig. “We are looking for companies that are paying good wages and offer good benefits.” Salinas agrees with Koenig’s assessment. “For a community our size, we’re fortunate to have a medical device manufacture such as All-Plastics due to the value-add it provides and healthy payroll it infuses into our economy,” Salinas said. “The supply chain associated with such an industry has a much larger economic impact in the area than other sectors. As they continue to grow and like other local manufacturers, we work with them to ensure Kerrville meets their needs. And, we’re always looking at ways to further develop their supply chain with the intent of landing additional suppliers tied to their operation.” Since 1964, All-Plastics has been working in Texas to produce plastic components for use in a wide range of industries and products. When you see the clear plastic basin that holds lemonade at a Chick-fil-A that was made right here in Kerrville. Other products are in use in medical facilities around the country. All-Plastics work is an example of a primary industry that scales beyond the borders


of Kerr County bringing in out-of-the-area revenue and wages that exceed the average wages in the region. The company employs about 70 people, and like many businesses in the Kerrville area, is actively seeking employees, said Jennifer Latiolais, the Development Director for the Kerrville-based company, which also operates another plant in Addison, Texas near Dallas. Latiolais said All-Plastics works to maintain a competitive advantage when it comes to hiring talent, and wages are within industry standards. While much of the work at the company requires technical staff and engineers, there are jobs that do not require a degree, but Latiolais said gaining experience and training internally is one of key selling points for employees. “Even our entry-level positions have a tier-level program,” Latiolais said. “We pay more for what you learn. We like to promote from within.” When it comes to salaries, the company takes a careful look at the benchmarks within the industry — often trying to match or beat those wages. Many of the jobs command salaries greater than $60,000 based on the benchmarks. Even entry-level positions can make $30,000 or more per year. If there’s one challenge the company has faced it’s in recruitment, which has led them to some re-thinking of work schedules, Latiolais said. “We run 24-7 and we hire for 12-hour shifts,” Latiolais said. “Now, we’re considering part-time schedules and other options.” The company’s ability to scale its business and service offerings is also connected to its use of technology, and it has proven nimble when it comes to making the investments to stay current and competitive. Recently, the company purchased additional state-of-the art equipment, including a Haas VF5 Taper CNC machine, and added additional technical staff to support rapid growth in machining operations for the food and beverage market. The computer numerical control machines allow the company to provide plastic machining as a turnkey service once the parts are molded. They are also able to use the equipment for mold maintenance, engineering changes and mold building. The CNC machines are commonly found in many manufacturing companies, but the key for All-Plastics is that it adds value to the customer relationship. “Our success over the years is directly related to partnering with the right customers,” said Thomas Houdeshell, CEO of All-Plastics. “We believe in building relationships where each party obtains value. We are willing to invest in the right opportunities and relationships

and this is a great example of where all the stars align. These types of investments are fun and exciting for us,” In 2017, All-Plastics reported a 1,135% increase in manufacturing of food and beverage componentry. Since then the company has continued to grow this market and will see an additional 75% growth with the addition of capacity available for plastic machining.

Mulching Eighth Page•Cedar •Land Clearing • General Cactus Creek Construction – 8644 roads, ponds,

LAND CLEARING

& CONSTRUCTION

fences

cactuscreekclearing.com

830-285-6576

15


MIXERS/CHAMBER EVENTS MARCH 11 Membership / Networking Luncheon Sponsored by Rotary Club of Kerrville, MARCH 19 Sponsored by Alegria Barn, 15475 S State Hwy 16, Fredericksburg, TX APRIL 16 Sponsored by the Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Hwy MAY 21 Sponsored by Emerald Cottages, 1501 Bandera Hwy JUNE 11 Membership / Networking Luncheon Sponsored by Ranch Radio, JUNE 18 Sponsored by the Dietert Center, 415 Guadalupe St JULY 16 Sponsored by Kerrville Hills Winery, 3600 Fredericksburg Rd AUGUST 20 Sponsored by Riverpoint of Kerrville, 1441 Bandera Hwy SEPTEMBER 17 Sponsored by Broadway Bank, 500 Main St OCTOBER 15 Sponsored by Ken Stoepel Ford, 400 Sidney Baker St. S NOVEMBER 19 Sponsored by State Farm – Amber Thomason, 221 Thompson Dr DECEMBER 10 Before Hours Breakfast Sponsored by: Peterson Medical, Location: TBD DECEMBER 17 Sponsored by Centennial Bank, 1145 Junction Hwy

Hurry...April Issue Deadlines on March 13, 2020

BUSINESS LINK THE HILL COUNTRY’S PREMIER BUSINESS PUBLICATION

Monthly glossy magazine featuring business development in the Hill Country.

12x $550 $325 $180 $100

6x $640 $375 $210 $115

Half Page KDT Programs 6346

Full Page 1/2 Page 1/4 Page 1/8 Page

1x $850 $500 $275 $150

All rates are net. Full Page 8.375” wide x 10.875” tall • Half Page 3.564” wide x 9.833” tall or 7.375” wide x 4.793” tall Quarter page 3.564” wide x 4.793” tall • Eighth Page 3.564” wide x 2.273” tall

APPLAUSE Ad Program Celebrating a business anniversary? We want to help you celebrate with an ad at a special rate. $325/Full $100 Quarter $175/Half $55 Eighth Anniversary/Employee of the Month/Retirement

The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce Call your Advertising Representative at the Kerrville Daily Times to Reserve Your Spot! Brandon Baldwin - 257-0310 brandon.baldwin@dailytimes.com

Valerie Tucker - 257-0309 valerie.tucker@dailytimes.com

Luly Bliss - 257-0308 luly.bliss@dailytimes.com

16 BusinessLink • March 2020


MIXER GRAVITY CHECK SALOON

➤ The February mixer was held at the Gravity Check Saloon in Kerrville, and was one of the best attended mixers in some time. Those in attendance learned about Precinct 2 Prosperity Program, which the Chamber is backing, that would change the alcohol rules in that part of Kerr County. Photos by Valerie Tucker.

Thank You to Our Diamond & Platinum Investors

Diamond Investors • Jam Broadcasting 94.3 • Martin Marietta • Adapting Online, LLC • Mo-Ranch • Alamo Colleges • Moore’s Home Furnishings • Alara Strategic and Creative • Nationwide Insurance • Ashley HOMESTORE Joe Cook & Associates, Inc. • Brookdale Senior Living • Palate Thyme • Calvary Temple Church • Peterson Health • Centennial Bank • Precision Dentistry and • Century 21 The Hills Realty Implants of Kerrville • Comerica Bank • Ragsdale Family Camps • Community First National Bank • Randolph Brooks Federal • Cypress Roofing Credit Union • Frost Bank • Sam’s Club • Ronnie Gesell Construction • Schreiner University • Robert Glossop Jr. • Security State Bank & Trust • Gravity Check Saloon & Arena • Tango Homes, LLC • HCTC • Texas Lions Camp • H.E.B. Foods-Drug Store • Texas State Optical • Hill Country MHDD Centers • United Hunting • Inn of the Hills Resort & Heritage International Conference Center • UTSA Small Business • James Avery Artisan Jewelry Development Center • Ken Stoepel Ford • Wal-Mart Store, Inc. #508 • Kerr County Federal Credit Union • Wells Fargo Bank • Wine-O-Bout It • Kerrville Public Utility Board

Half Page Chamber Diamond & Platinum 6348

Laura Mesia and Shelly Rogers.

Platinum Investors

Back row left, MG Koenig, Paula Wilson, Carolyn Northcutt. Bottom row, Margie Jetton and Linda Stillwell.

• 72 Degrees Air Conditioning & Heating • Airtech A/C & Heating • All-Plastics • Douville, Goldman & Associates, PLLC • Guadalupe Bank • Heart of the Cards • Hilco Federal Credit Union • Hill Country Memorial • Hill Country Youth Event Center • Home Simple Goods • Kerrville Hills Winery • Laity Lodge Youth Camp H E Butt Family Foundation • LeMeilleur’s RV, Truck & Equipment Repair Co. • Precision Dermatology, PA Kerrville Dermatologist

• Prime Capital Investment Advisors • Safeguard Business Systems • San Carlos Ranch • State Farm Insurance Justin Hamilton • Superior Services Tree Care • Talarico and Associates, A Wealth Management Firm • Texas Hill Country Bank - Kerrville • Turtle Creek Olive GroveVacation Rental • Turtle Creek Olive & Vines • Volunteer Services Council for Kerrville State Hospital • Windstream Communications • Y.O. Ranch Resort Hotel and Conference Center • Y.O. Ranch Headquarters

Your Membership Is An Investment In Your Business The Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce

Linda and Tom Peterson

1700 Sidney Baker St., Suite 100 • Kerrville, TX 78028 Phone 830-896-1155 / Fax 830-896-1175

www.kerrvilletx.com

17


MIXER Please join us in extending a word of “Thanks!” to these businesses for sponsoring the major events being held in 2020 by the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce. Because of their generosity and support, we will be able to continue to educate and serve our membership and community about shared opportunities, issues and challenges.

Half 25 Page ANNUAL CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC Chamber Major Monday, April 6, 2020 Events 6347 ROBERT GLOSSOP JR. - INDIVIDUAL SPONSOR TH

Mac Anderson, Rose Anderson and Albert Rodriguez.

SCOTT SCHREINER MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE

BUSINESS EXPO WITH FRIDAY NIGHT WINE SHARE August 7-8, 2020

HILL COUNTRY YOUTH EVENT CENTER

98TH ANNUAL CHAMBER CHOICE AWARDS BANQUET Thursday, October 29, 2020 • Location TBA

Justin Foster, Montana Martin and Jenny Martin.

4TH ANNUAL HILL COUNTRY ECONOMIC SUMMIT Thursday, February 13, 2020

HILL COUNTRY YOUTH EVENT CENTER

Jim Motheral and Ray Thidobeaux

1700 Sidney Baker St.,Suite 100 • Kerrville (830) 896-1155 • www.kerrvilletx.com

18 BusinessLink • March 2020


AIR CONDITIONING State Aire 2472 Junction Hwy. Kerrville, Texas 78028 (830) 367-4131

APARTMENTS Full Page

AUTO REPAIR AND SERVICE LeMeilleur’s RV Center 620 Junction Hwy. Kerrville, Texas 78028 (830) 257-4366

BOUTIQUE SHOPS

The Creek Boutique 3272 Junction Hwy. Ingram, Texas 78025 (830) 367-3281

CAMPS

Texas Lions Camp 4100 San Antonio Hwy. Kerrville, Texas 78028 ( 830) 896-8500

INSURANCE

Farmers Insurance Rolando Lopez 1214 Bandera Hwy. Kerrville, Texas 78028 (830) 257-7272

Farmers Insurance Renee Smith 1016D Junction Hwy. Kerrville, Texas 78028 Directory (830) 896-4100

JEWELERS

Taj Mahal Jewelers 200 Sidney Baker St., Suite #8 Kerrville, Texas 78028 (830) 896-0335

LIGHTING FIXTURES & SUPPLIES TEU Services 228 Washington St. Kerrville, Texas 78028 (830) 496-4090

TITLE ENTERPRISES Kerr County Abstract & Title Co. 712 Earl Garrett Kerrville, Texas 78028 (830) 257-5151

CHAMBER BUSINESS GUIDE

Wilson Asset Chamber Management, Inc. 231 Earl Garrett, Ste. 300 Kerrville, Texas 78028 (830) 792-4200

Farmers Insurance Nathaniel Turner 260 Thompson Dr. Kerrville, Texas 78028 (830) 896-4100

WINDOW COVERINGS Kerrville Window Fashions 507 Junction Highway Kerrville, TX 78028 (830) 733-0041 kerrvillewindowfashions.com Want to see your business featured here? Contact Valerie Tucker at The Kerrville Daily Times 830-257-0333

19


We’re changing the way you connect.

SM

• Voice Solutions • High-Speed Internet

Your world, connected.

• Networking Solutions & Support • Secure Data Storage • Business Systems Solutions • Business & Home Security Solutions • Comprehensive Wireless Solutions

20 BusinessLink • March 2020

Call us today to connect. 800.292.5457 | hctc.net Visit our retail locations: Ingram | Kerrville | Mason | Junction | Comfort | Sonora

Hill Country Telecommunications, LLC, 220 Carolyn Street, Ingram, TX 78025 Security Lic.# B15426 • Fire Lic.# TX ACR-3212 This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.