GOODS & SERVICES
Jayme Anderson is the owner and manager of Ollie’s Service in Alexandria.
O
llie’s Service began in 1955 when it was Ray and Ollie’s automobile repair. It was owned by Ray Schultz and Ollie Anderson. Ollie became the sole owner until about 1972, when his son, Earl, became a partner. In 1983, Ollie retired and Earl and his wife, Sonya, purchased the business. In 2001, it became Ollie’s Service Inc. and Earl and Sonya’s son, Jayme, joined the business as an owner and manager. He continues to own the business today.
Q
As the current owners, why was it important to you to keep the family business going?
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I have four children of my own, three of which currently work here at Ollie’s! I’m hoping one day they will want to take over. All of us here at Ollie’s have a lot of pride providing service to the Alex area.
Q A
How has the business changed over the years? Any new locations, etc.? Ollie’s started at 1213 Broadway and grew at that location. In 2019, we expanded to our current location at 111 Donna Ave. behind Fleet Farm.
OLLIE’S SERVICE Q A
What are the biggest challenges/ rewards of owning a generational business? Making sure you don’t make too many mistakes and damage the reputation and hard work your family has put into making it a great business. The greatest reward is seeing all the returning customers year after year! We have such a dedicated and passionate staff.
Q A
What impact, do you feel, a generational business has on our community? We have so many generational customers that it’s just plain amazing! Here at Ollie’s, it is very important to stay connected to the community and provide personal service.
My great-great-grandfather started our family business in 1917. Daily, I am reminded of the responsibility, and the blessing, I have in being the 5th generation to lead Forum Communications Company and making sure it is passed on to the 6th. In today’s world of huge internet companies eating up small family businesses, I encourage everyone in the communities that are part of our company, including Alexandria, to do business with a family business. These are the people that are paying taxes, voting and making our communities vibrant and whole. – Bill Marcil, Jr. President, Chief Executive Officer, Forum Communications Company
OUR MISSION
To connect and inform communities through quality journalism, entertainment and business solutions.
18 | IMPACT 2023