Leader in Business: 05.30.10
CORPUS CHRISTI Malcolm Ward
Owner, Mars Discount Vacuums
Address: 4912 S. Staples, Corpus Christi, TX
Phone: 361-991-6612
Website: www.marsvacuums.com
Company description: Vacuum cleaner sales, service and parts
Hometown: Port Aransas
Years in business: 45 years
Tenure in position: 38 years, 22 as owner
Education: Aransas Pass High School 1979 graduate and some college at Del Mar College
First job: When I was 12, I started working at Mars for my father on Saturdays, mostly rebuilding trade-ins for resale. I learned how to work on vacuum cleaners and sewing machines and I learned how to save my money to buy things without having to beg my parents.
Biggest career break: By 1985, my Dad was running a store in Houston and I was in charge of this one. In 1988, I purchased the business from my father and he continued to operate the Houston store. Being the owner allows me to make my own decisions and learn from my mistakes.
Business turning point: About 9 years ago, I started listening to Dave Ramsey (book and radio financial advisor). In 2005, I finished paying off all my debts except my house. I’ve established an emergency fund. It’s given me more confidence and peace of mind. It helps me sleep better at night not worrying about personal and business bills.
Business philosophy: A satisfied customer is our greatest asset. They will tell their friends about us and it has a snowball affect. .
Our customers, vendors and even our competitors are our friends. When a customer needs a part we don’t have, we will call a competitor to see if they have it.
How would you improve the Coastal Bend’s business climate? Doing business with local companies every chance you get is a great start. Many assume that they will get a better deal online or at a big box retailer, without giving the locals a chance. Local businesses don’t have mass merchandisers’ advertising budgets, so word-of-mouth is critical. If you buy local, more of your money will stay in your own community.
How has your business changed with today’s economic climate? Vacuum cleaners are essential for most households. I’ve noticed a slight decline in new vacuum sales and an increase in repairs. I’m getting new customers that might normally toss out their vacuum, come in to see if it can be repaired economically. We also have customers who would rather recycle their old machine than send it to the landfill. Even before the recession, we have always encouraged our customers to buy American made vacuums. Customers will not only get a better product but they will also keep Americans working.
— Janet Herlihy/Special to the Caller-Times
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