We had the pleasure of stopping in to visit Bill Martin of Water Street Bakery! Continue reading to learn more about Bill and Water Street Bakery!
What is your name, and how long has your business been open in Summerside?
My name is Bill Martin, I own Water Street Bakery and Deli along with my wife, Josette Martin. I purchased the bakery back in 1988, but it opened in 1984 originally as a Bun King Franchise. My wife joined in the early 90’s, becoming a 50% owner, and now our daughter and oldest son even works here, making it really a family business.
What inspired you to start this business and did you always want to own a bakery?
Nope. As a matter of fact, I did not want to own a bakery. Buying the bakery was not even on my radar but a combination of circumstances evolved between myself as a Business Consultant and the original owners that resulted in an opportunity I could not refuse. Looking back now, it was the right decision.
Can you tell me about your business and what products/services you offer?
I’m excited about what I call the home meal replacement products, because it just gives us a whole other avenue for A) satisfying customers, B) attracting customers and C) keeping customers.. you know, really the purpose of a business.
What do you love most about being a business owner in the Greater Summerside Area?
The thing about Summerside, coming from a former mayor, it always punches above its weight. Whether it’s it’s sporting activities, whether it’s renewables, whether it’s infrastructure, whether it’s electric utility, whatever, this city is progressive, and it’s just a great place to do business.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start a business, and why should they choose the Greater Summerside Area?
I used to do business seminars. I did them for 30 years and I would always start with the question “What’s the purpose of business?” I always got the same answer: “Make money.” I say back, “Yeah, I get it. I understand that. You have to make money. But it’s not the right answer.” And people would argue with me, and they’d say, “Well, what’s the right answer? It’s to create and keep customers. That’s the purpose of the business, because when you do that, and everything else is the way it’s supposed to be, your customers are in line, your prices are in line, your service is good, your operation’s clean, the whole nine yards, then you’ll make money.
What advice would I give to people starting a business in Summerside? Starting a business anywhere? Hire great people. Pay them well. Treat them well. Like our pension and our health plan. Huge for families. While they’re both expensive for the business, they’re worth their weight in gold.