A former state House representative discusses the ups and downs of small business ownership.
Serving as a House representative for four terms, Mark Piepho came to know both NFIB and Minnesota’s regulatory issues. His small business continues to run on employee enthusiasm and a customer-oriented vision.
What does Piepho Moving & Storage provide, and how did it come to be?
It was a family business started 65 years ago by my father. We are an agent for Allied Van Lines, handling storage and moving needs within the state and even around the world, whether it’s for a company or a household. We move their goods all over the world and can store them in our modern warehouses. In the ‘70s, we started expanding, and we have four locations today. It’s still a family business going with the third generation—I got involved after college and have been in it for about 25 years.
What do you find most rewarding about running your own business?
Doing the best possible job for the customer and doing the best that you can for the employees and their enthusiasm. We have around 50 or so employees, and they’re the ones who really do it. It’s fun and kind of challenging. We keep moving forward, always offering the best opportunities for employees to get ahead.
What prompted you to become an NFIB member?
I was a state representative for four terms, and I knew about NFIB while I was in the legislature. The people we had from NFIB were very helpful. They’re aware of many issues that would affect any small business.
What are some of the greatest challenges you’ve had to overcome as a small business owner?
Dealing with the regulatory environment. Taxes are always a concern. As far as the business climate, we want to keep regulations minimal and not require any more mandates—keep things open and accessible so people can achieve and get ahead.
