Profile of a Small Business

Profile of a Small Business

In this paper, the discussion will be an examination of the business profile of chocolatier Michael Mischer. The business profile is in the text Effective Small Business Management on page 554. In addition to the examination will be the discussion on the start-up process for the business. Next an analysis of the opportunities that Michael sought while deciding to open the chocolate shop. In addition, the products, and services sold will be discussed. Based on the decisions that Michael chose, certain areas will be examined to determine what made his shop successful. Last, the effects that globalization had, both the challenges, and benefits will be discussed.

Michael Mischer was “born and raised in Northern Germany” (Scarborough, 2009, p. 554), and studied under Swiss Master Pastry Chef Andreas Haertle. Michael decided that he wanted to venture out into the pastry and confectionary market on his own. He moved to Oakland, California, and began working in pastry shops. Eventually he opened his own shop while continuing to work in the other shops to gaining more knowledge about the industry. “With a love for the craft of producing fresh products, the idea for a small chocolate shop was born” (Scarborough, 2009, p. 554). Michael wanted the challenge of offering products that customers had never tasted before. He rented a space that will allow him to expand; however, with that comes a steep price tag. After spending $75,000 in renovations, Michael could open his shop. He did most of the renovations himself, cutting the cost by almost $2,000. In addition, he could reuse machinery from a previous business venture saving additional funds. Keeping decorations and design to a minimum he could use those additional funds for a special display for his gelato. After three years, he is turning annual revenues of approximately $250,000.

Once Michael decided to open his own shop, a profitable location was needed. He located a...