Did you know that every $100 spent at a local, independently-owned store generates $45 of secondary local spending, compared to $14 for a big-box chain? This was first tested in 2003 by the Institute for Local Self Reliance and is nearly identical to later results across multiple Civic Economic studies.
The Plant City Times & Observer agrees with buying local. With the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, we’ve launched the Buy Local campaign, encouraging residents to shop local. This week’s Buy Local spotlight is Top Shelf Bar and Grill. We caught up with owners Lawrence and Zee Brown to get all the info on this successful business.
How did your business first get its start?
A concept, a dream, that was put into action.
What kind of services can your business offer the community?
We serve restaurant-style cooking. We don’t believe in “Stouffer’s To Go” food. The majority of our food has some freshly prepared component. We focus on fresh ingredients and home-style prepared dishes. We cater events, as well.
How does your business contribute to the community?
We support local charitable events and a myriad of other sponsorships and volunteer efforts.
Why is your business located at its site?
Our food is not ubiquitous, and so we think our establishment shouldn’t be either. We think downtown has a unique charm not found in other places.
What specials are you running?
Vary on a daily basis, some examples include “Hamburger Tuesday” and “Wings on Wednesday.”
What is your business’ motto or mission, and why?
To always serve. It doesn’t matter if it’s serving the best food, or serving the community — service is that part of the American work ethic that can’t be duplicated in the same manner by a machine.
Can you describe your clients/customers?
Our customers are hardworking people who go out and want to have a nice time in a chill atmosphere away from the hectic life that is waiting outside of our doors. We give our customers comfort food at an appropriate price and an atmosphere that is right for them to get their “release” so they can face their day.
What is your background? Professional? Education?
The owners are a college educated husband and wife team.
How long have you been in the business?
Since May of 2014.
What is your secret to success?
Great food, good team and hard work.
What kind of restaurant culture do you promote?
Fun environment, but one that has the necessary rules and procedures to make sure it’s a safe and productive working environment. We believe in integrity, and we thread that ideal throughout the company culture.
What is your management style?
We are not micro-managers, and we don’t believe in Theory X management styles. We believe our associates can be self-directed and autonomous once they are given the right tools for success. We believe in empowering our associates, and we treat others like we want to be treated.