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(story continued)
For self-employed Anthony Magaro, time management presents a challenge. "It can
be chaotic around here with the two businesses and raising our family, three
girls, ages 3, 8, and 15, but our work ethic transcends everything," he said.
AFM Refinishing, a.k.a. Mr. Sandman , a wood-floor refinishing company that caters
to the residential industry, has been in business for 17 years. AFM specializes
in set up and finishing of occupied and unoccupied residences; lifetime warranties,
dust and odor control, mark-free sanding and environmentally safe finishes.
The couple shares office space, as well as business plans.
"We bounce ideas back and forth. It's nice to have another business mind around," said
Jacqueline Magaro, who created a radio promo for her husband.
Anthony Magaro, who is the only employee of AFM, said gross sales were $75,000
in 1999 and $150,000 in 2000. Currently sales are up 30 percent over last year's
and by the end of 2002, they are expected to reach $250,000.
"It is important to be recognizes as a leader in floor refinishing and expand
into other areas where the demographics will support ," said Magaro, who services
more than 600 local clients. One of Magaro's largest competitors, who preferred
to remain anonymous, agreed that Magaro is a leader in the industry. |
Kathleen Rodgers of Mechanicsburg recently hired Magaro to refinish her floors. "He
did an excellent job," she said. "It was probably the best work we've had done
on the house."
THe next step for Mr. Sandman is a venture into franchising. Magaro believes
the demographics will support his move. "A franchise will enable me to apply
the skills and techniques I've refined as a one-man business and take it to
the next level," he said.
Confidence and risk-taking are both challenges and keys to success, Anthony
Magaro said. "It is vital to network within the industries, to keep up with
technologies, and get advice from professionals," he said. "Engage those resources
to guide you."
- Jena Laske « Go
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