ship, Lawless explained that he was able to focus more on Bakersfield needs instead of national appeal. “We improved the quality of the atmosphere, changed the menu, and added custom items that were wanted in Bakersfield,” Lawless said. Hungry Hunter takes pride in the support its local ownership garners. “Local support has been really good to us, because of the recognition of local ownership,” Lawless said. He makes sure to advertise that the restaurant is locally owned and operated.
Smith’s Bakery: Longtime business adheres to its founding principles Bakersfield favorite Smith’s Bakery has been a local dessert staple since its founding in 1945. Owner James Balmain purchased the popular confectionary from founders Howard Smith and Balmain’s father, Roy, in 1985. Balmain attributes his business’ success to the maintenance of the principles upon which Smith’s Bakery was founded:“to provide good quality bakery goods and service to the people of Bakersfield.” Smith’s prides itself in always using the best ingredients, instilling in its employees the importance of making every product correctly the first time, and always putting its employees and customers first. Additionally, Balmain explained the importance of learning to “stay current with new ideas, while, at the same time, caring for the tastes of your long-term customers.” Local support acts as the pillars buttressing Smith’s success. “Without loyal customers, no business can survive,” Balmain said. “The support
Photo by Felix Adamo
Smith’s Bakery prides itself on its quality ingredients and customer service. is built by trying to treat your customers as you would like to be treated and by making products that are consistent and of good quality.” One thing is clear. These businesses all carry strong leadership — an important key to any business’ success, according to business consultant Derek Edwards. “A top inefficiency in businesses, more than any other, is a lack of accountability at all levels,” Edwards said. “If the leadership of an organization has selfish motivations, then this mindset will very quickly flow down to the employees. This will result in an organization where no one communicates or shares key ideas, which, in turn, will lead to the organizations stagnant growth or worse.” Showing a deep respect for employees as shown in these businesses is in alignment
Photo by Brian Drake
Maintaining a strong local connection has helped Hungry Hunter thrive in tough times.
with advice given by Edwards. “Many organizations forget the importance of placing their employees first, their customers second and their management third,” Edwards said. “What this means is that if the employees are happy, they will be more likely to go the extra mile for their customers, which, in turn, will result in more profits and/or efficiency for the organization, which ultimately is the goal of any organization’s leadership.” While these businesses are financially successful, it is in other ways that these businesses shine the brightest. “Success is more than the bottom line,” Coughlin said. “The only measure of success in my view is lifestyle. If you’re happy, fulfilled, if your family is functioning, then you’re a successful businessman, regardless of your bank account.” Bakersfield Life 2011 Financial Health