So many small businesses begin as a dream to control one’s
own outcome. Such was the case of Archbold based Fielitz Corporation, formed in
1954 by two men who grew tired of the hour-long commute to Toledo each day.
Originally the partnership offered start-to-finish carpentry from a small
garage. Today, Fielitz is a leader in custom cabinetry.
After working for the company for years, Duane Fielitz
purchased it from his father. Fielitz now employs six skilled craftsmen to
serve the Northwest Ohio and Michigan areas. Residential and commercial
customers alike turn to Fielitz to meet their needs.
Fielitz says there is always trouble finding help. The
company requires proficient workers who care about what they do and have the
carpentry skills to do the job.
Additionally, the constant stream of regulations adds a tremendous
burden on Fielitz.
Here, Fielitz turns to NFIB. He inherited the membership from his father,
who originally joined in 1967. Fielitz believes NFIB looks out for small
business. In particular, he appreciates NFIB’s work on municipal tax reform,
which adds time and cost to his operation.
NFIB also offers information on protecting businesses, which
is key to Fielitz. As he notes, too many people are waiting to pounce when a
mistake is made, and the fines that follow can be crippling.
Even with these troubles, Fielitz enjoys the freedom that is
afforded a small business owner. As he says, “I get to work when no one else
wants to.” This upside is what attracted his father to open shop almost sixty
years ago, and what keeps Fielitz Corporation running today.
