Circles of Change: Conversations with Dr. Zara Larsen
on Change Leadership and Career Fulfillment
May 3, 2009
“The Sandal Man Can”
Guest: Dave Piper
1-800-441-2259 www.pipersandals.com
Anchoring Points:
- I have been making hand-made leather products, specifically sandals, since 1971 in partnership with my then 2-years old son, Jon. As a single father teaching school, I needed the additional income plus wanted to do something that was flexible and involve my son – we raised each other.
- We continue as a one-of-a-kind, small family business based in San Antonio, Texas – my son, his wife, Robin, young daughter, Penelope (who “owns” our children’s line) and next door neighbor, Bob. Our goal is to live comfortably and as simply as we can, living then well on our own terms and have independence.
- Our sandals are 100% Made in the USA with the highest quality American tanned cowhide leather. Unisex sizes 1-14, two basic models, recently adding colored leathers to brown and black. Guaranteed to fit, feel good and last a lifetime. We replace the adjustable straps for free (even if the dog eats them!)
- At an outdoor street fair in Austin, Texas, a return customer approached our booth in 1993 to say he was going to put up a website for us, one of the first 1,400 sites that launched the eCommerce retailing world when the US Government opened access to the worldwide web. We didn’t even own a computer – nor did I really want to.
- We have sold over 48,000 pairs in 38 years, roughly 2,700 pairs a year – 2/3 via face-to-face sales from our shop and traveling to fairs, 1/3 via the internet – with customers from around the world.
- Our 800 telephone number and website are stamped on every pair … your sandal maker is never more than one foot away!
- Being in business is quite frankly so much simpler than I thought it would be, although there is never enough capital -- this challenge reminds me to always stay within my means.
America is starved for service, so we do this. You must offer a genuine service to be a successful business, have a quality product with a range of goodness and value for the price, and ALWAYS stand by your product.
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