Century Old 'Schlemmer Bros' Gets Digital | Small Business Revolution - Main Street: S1E5

In the YouTube video "Century Old 'Schlemmer Bros' Gets Digital | Small Business Revolution - Main Street: S1E5," the focus is on revitalizing Schlemmer Brothers, a century-old business in Wabash, Indiana. The video highlights the importance of adapting to modern market demands while maintaining a strong legacy.

Main Financial Strategies and Business Trends:

• Adaptation and Growth: Emphasizes the need for long-standing businesses to evolve and embrace new technologies and marketing strategies to survive.
• Employee-Centric Culture: The management believes that a strong company culture is crucial for retaining skilled employees and fostering loyalty.
• Diversified Revenue Streams: Schlemmer Brothers operates multiple revenue streams, including metal fabrication, retail sales, and service offerings.
• Online Presence and Marketing: The necessity of improving online marketing strategies is highlighted, particularly the importance of a mobile-responsive website and measurable online marketing efforts.
• Community Commitment: The business’s long history and its role as a local employer are underscored, suggesting that community ties can enhance business sustainability.

Methodology/Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Assess Current Operations: Understand the existing business structure and revenue distribution between fabrication, retail, and services.
2. Improve Online Marketing:
   • Enhance the website for better user experience and mobile responsiveness.
   • Implement search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to increase visibility.
   • Utilize measurable online advertising methods, such as Google Ads.
3. Employee Training: Provide training for employees (e.g., Kris) in retail and marketing to improve customer engagement and sales strategies.
4. Physical Store Improvements: Make façade improvements and optimize customer flow within the retail space.
5. Explore Off-Season Opportunities: Identify additional services or products that can keep employees engaged and generate revenue during slower periods.

Presenters/Sources:

• Amanda Brinkman (Marketing Expert)
• Robert Herjavec (Entrepreneur)
• Kent Henderson (Owner of Schlemmer Brothers)
• Kris White (Employee at Schlemmer Brothers)
• Various members of the Small Business Revolution team.