Company: Hecktown Glass and Window

Location: 4383 Hecktown Rd, Bethlehem, PA

Formed: 1984

Owners: Gene and David Deming

Employees: 3+

Phone: 610-759-7285/1-800-452-7599

Website:www.hecktownglass.net/index.php

Business Type: Limited Liability Company

Score Counselor: John Donaldson

Hecktown Glass & Window had been operating at a modest level in a very competitive market. The owners Gene and David Deming, contacted Lehigh Valley SCORE requesting help to expand their business. Many discussions followed involving cash flow, costs, pricing, marketing and sales, project management, etc. The owners recognized that they could increase their sales and profit margins by following the recommendations made by the SCORE team in the financial areas. Much progress has been made in the marketing and customer service as well.

Company: The Organic Mattress Company

Location: 1075 Main St. Hellertown, PA

Formed: 2004

Owners: Dennis & Leora Hornick

Employees:

Phone: 484-851-3636 or 1-866-246-9866

Website: www.theorganicmattressstore.com

Business Type: Limited Liability Company

SCORE Counselor: Bob Roll

Dennis Hornick's focus was Organic Mattresses and he sought help from SCORE in Basic Operations, Financial Practices and Marketing. Over several months, Bob and Dennis worked together on Market Research, Suppliers, and Competition. Recently they have been exploring franchising ideas. The Company has changed locations to a much larger facility where they are able to carry a substantial inventory with an attractive showroom. Dennis and Leora have grown the business from a startup to a successful company.

Company: Rita's Ice

Location: 3219 Cherryville Road, Northampton, PA

Formed: 2005

Owners: James and Betsy Rutolo

Employees: 20

Phone: 610-262-9020

Website:www.ritasice.com

Business Type: Franchise/ Limited Liability Company

SCORE Counselor: Bob Roll

James Rutolo first contacted LEHIGH VALLEY SCORE in 2005 as he was anxious to "Start a Business." Having worked many years as an employee in various businesses, Jim felt it was time to start his own. Various options were explored and investigated regarding start up costs, cash flow, potential for success, markets, etc. The franchise opportunity was deemed the most attractive option. Bob Roll then helped Jim work out the business details with the franchisor and is happy to report that James and Betsie now operate a successful Rita's Italian Ice franchise in Northampton, PA.