A few years after selling his first business, Claude Pope had the "serendipitous" opportunity to acquire Maritime Market. Now owner of four years, he discusses the joys and challenges of running the small island grocery store.
NFIB Member: Claude Pope
Business: Maritime Market
Location: Bald Head Island, North Carolina
What surprised you about owning Maritime Market?
To understand the Market, you need to understand Bald Head Island. It is a tiny island off the coast of North Carolina with about 4,000 residents in the summer and 160 residents year-round. It’s unique because we are the only grocery store on the island and there are no cars. We have to ship our supplies from the mainland when the weather is good, so the logistics are exceptionally difficult. It compels us as entrepreneurs to step up our game and serve the community. We hope to offer a large selection and keep prices as low as possible and stay engaged in the community.
What surprised me is the loyalty and dedication islanders have to the Market. It’s very much the epicenter of social life. We once had a 30-hour power outage and people gathered here for a hot meal, news and a party in the evening. The market kept everyone together and informed. It has been a profoundly positive and humbling experience.
What is your favorite part of the workday? What is the most challenging part?
My favorite part of the day is getting to work and seeing people first thing in the morning. People will come get coffee and a biscuit to start their day, and I’ll join them and sit and have a chat. The most challenging part, like any business, is the unknowns you have to deal with. The barge with supplies will run late or someone will call in sick. The small business owner has to do a little bit of everything and go where you’re needed most.
Why did you join NFIB and what do you like about it?
I joined NFIB right after buying our office supply company in 1995, so 20 years ago. The Chambers of Commerce and other business associations didn’t represent my interests; they more represented larger businesses, so I joined because of that. I got more involved, joined the leadership council and served as the chairman for five years. Small business is the backbone of American greatness and I am thrilled to do anything I can to help it.
