ISFA FABRICATOR PROFILE: LYCOS

By Kevin Cole, Editor

Many fabricators have learned the value of diversification in their operations, but Lycos took the idea in a significantly different direction than what may come to mind. The branching out of the company has put it in a somewhat uniquely successful position, but before examining how Lycos, Inc. took its business to a whole new level, an understanding of the company’s history is critical.

Building the Foundation Owner Jon Taylor first came across solid surface in 2004 when he was installing countertops on a spec home he was building. Instantly intrigued, he decided to attend various fabrication training programs around the country to learn how to work with the material and learn more about the surfacing industry. Soon after, he was fabricating solid surface countertops for the residential market. When the housing market crashed in the mid-2000s, he decided he no longer wanted to work in residential. In 2007, he started Lycos, Inc. “From my garage in Carson, Iowa, I started bidding public work and even went as far as knocking on people’s doors just trying to get my name out there,” said Taylor. “Eventually, that led to landing a huge deal to fabricate and

Missouri. This deal really helped catapult Lycos and opened doors for us to start fabricating solid surface for nationally known franchises across the Midwest.” Lycos focuses only on commercial work and provides in-house estimating, project management and installation to all clients interested in improving their space with solid surface. All of the company’s solid surface work is gained through public bidding with general contractors in the commercial arena. Through the years, the company branched out into fast food and retail markets and then to service pretty much all other industries including healthcare, hospitality, education, government and office facilities. This led to the development of a solid reputation for the company, which in turn gave Taylor both the

install solid surface countertops for a large

inspiration and the opportunity to branch out

gas station chain across Iowa, Nebraska and

into other areas.

28 • Vol. 12 / Issue 4 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Lycos focuses exclusively on commercial fabrication of solid surface, such as this unique reception desk at University of Nebraska Medical Center’s College of Nursing.

Jon Taylor was first introduced to solid surface in 2004, and since has built a large, reputable commercial solid surface company as well as four additional offshoot businesses over the past 15 years.