03/20/2002
In 1970, just one year after he graduated from college, Ken Daniel used $300 to start Midway Wholesale, a Topeka-Kan.-based distributor of roofing, siding, window, doors and concrete accessories. More than 30 years later, Midway has grown to 100 employees and has been financed completely with private money.As a small business owner, Daniel worries most about heavy tax loads and burdensome regulations. He's been an advocate on these and other issues since he started his business. But Daniel joined NFIB when he realized how much more effective he'd be as a member of the largest small business advocacy group in the country.
"Now that I'm part of a huge team, the results of my efforts are far greater than they were when I was a one-man act," he says.
Not one to sit on the sidelines, Daniel plays an active role in drumming up support for NFIB-backed issues and the state and federal levels. He has testified before the Kansas Legislature, keeps in constant contact with lawmakers and serves as chairman of the NFIB/Kansas Leadership Council.
Quick Facts:
Name: Midway Wholesale, www.midwaywholesale.com
Location: Topeka, Kan.
Founded: 1970
Number of employees: 100
How did you get into the business?
Right out of college, I started as a straight-commission salesman for one manufacturer. Though my territory was an existing one, it had not been worked for several years, so there wasn't much being sold. While it was easier to regenerate old business than it would have been to start in a brand-new territory, it was still a hard go. After about a year, I started stocking some of my own materials, and the business has grown from there.
Why did you join NFIB?
A friend recommended the organization to me, and then the NFIB territory manager sold me on the importance of being involved. It quickly became clear to me that NFIB is the single-most effective and valuable business resource for our small business. We belong to other business groups, but NFIB delivers the most bang for our buck. What's most important to me is that NFIB members determine which issues are important -- not a board of directors made up of Big Business interests.
How did you become involved in NFIB grassroots activism?
I was an activist before joining NFIB, just not a very effective one. A friend pointed out that I should channel my efforts through NFIB, instead of going at it alone. Now that I'm part of a huge team, the results of my efforts are far greater than they were when I was a one-man act.
What have you done through NFIB to help the cause of small business?
I serve as the Chairman of the NFIB Leadership Council in Kansas. But involvement isn't just about serving in a group. I also have testified before the Kansas Legislature, and I consistently contact legislators about important issues. I've done a lot of research so that I can speak intelligently and accurately on the issues. Plus, I've talked a lot of small businesses into joining the organization by explaining the effectiveness of NFIB.
What are your top legislative concerns at the state and federal levels?
At the state level, I am most concerned about the crushing tax loads small businesses are forced to bear. I am working to make sure small business is not singled out for big tax increases. At the federal level, excessive regulation is my top concern, with the IRS, DOT, OSHA and ERISA being the main culprits.
Why do you like being a small business owner?
I like being part of a winning team, one that I got to choose myself. As one of this company's leaders, I get a lot more credit than I deserve. I've always been active in civic, charitable and church organizations, but building a company that allows 100 people to earn a living, be respected for their abilities and enjoy going to work is about the most important thing I'll ever do. I'll also be satisfied if my work through NFIB helps a few fellow small business owners.
