Supporting small businesses is important in every country. While such enterprises are regarded as outsiders alongside major conglomerates, global banks and supply networks, the reasons for their prosperity are compelling. By influencing the growth of small enterprises, you may help them become catalysts for both the regional and local economies. Additionally, a business of this type leaves a far smaller carbon footprint because small enterprises generate less pollution during operation due to their limited usage of transportation. They also create new jobs and care for customers, which are critical to the success of any business. Find a selection of the top small businesses in Queens at queens1.one.
Schmidt’s Candy
The chocolate factory and store, Schmidt’s Candy, produces and sells handmade confectionery products. Its glass display cases feature sweet rabbits and bunnies, as well as sweets with salted caramel, frosting and more. The best-selling item is chocolate with jelly filling.
The facility was opened by German immigrant Frank Schmidt on the site of his own soda fountain. The resourceful entrepreneur located it on Jamaica Avenue (Woodhaven neighborhood), which was regarded as the borough’s commercial center and was conveniently accessible by subway for residents from different parts of New York. He got the idea to open a sweets store from a publication titled “67 tested ways for you to make money.” Schmidt decided to combine traditional German chocolate recipes with the highest quality ingredients.
After Frank’s death, Schmidt’s Candy was taken over by his son, and later by his granddaughter Margie. Schmidt’s Candy’s strong management enabled them to survive competition, the Great Depression and the COVID-19 pandemic. All proprietors had to work hard long hours. For example, beginning in October and ending in the spring, Margie’s working day lasts at least 12 hours. The store experiences particularly high demand on the eve of holidays such as Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter.
Earth & Me
In order for a small business to stay afloat, it must distinguish itself from its competitors. This encourages owners to become inventive entrepreneurs, implement novel concepts, develop new distinctive products and meet customer needs. The Earth & Me domestic goods company can safely be described as exceptional. Its main principles include sustainable development, environmental friendliness, product quality and availability. The store sells household and cosmetic products while encouraging consumers to reduce waste and minimize their negative impact on the environment.
The brand was founded by Kayli Kunkel. Until 2020, she was a marketing director in the technology sector. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kayli noticed how difficult it is for small businesses to survive. She was actively involved in various charitable initiatives and began participating in social justice protests. After a period of standing up for her own principles, Kayli lost her job. Then she thought it was time to take a chance and launch her own business.
Since her parents were also business owners, Kunkel was fully aware of the benefits and risks associated with starting a company. After thinking carefully, she decided to give it a try. The plan was to purchase goods in large batches from small-scale suppliers, lowering their prices by making inexpensive eco-packaging. The entrepreneur launched an online store selling eco-friendly products on Etsy. She then also employed Instagram to increase sales.
After a while, Kayli started producing her own laundry soap, lip balm and lotion. In ten months, a modest business has grown into a rather large space with a wide variety of items. In early 2021, the businesswoman built an offline Earth & Me store in the Astoria neighborhood. It sells a diverse range of natural handcrafted products for personal hygiene, domestic use and even gifts. There are also liquid essential goods (such as soap or shampoo) that can be collected in your own containers. As a result, the store contributes to the environment by reusing containers and reducing the need to manufacture new ones.
It is well known that American small businesses contribute significantly to local community charities. According to statistics, they donate 250% more to non-profit and public causes than larger corporations. This was also demonstrated by Kayli Kunkel, whose company mainly supports minorities, particularly women, people of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community. The store contributes a significant amount of money to improving the state of the environment.
Yam
There are numerous jewelry brands in New York, but not all of them offer truly unique products. The Yam brand, on the other hand, creates made-to-order handcrafted items. It was established by designer Morgan Thomas as a tribute to her mother, who taught her how to make jewelry. Yam items can be described as minimalistic, yet bold and playful. Their jewelry frequently features sentimental silhouettes that remind people of something important. They also come in a variety of shapes inspired by industrial metals, as well as motifs from nature and pearl accents.
Each item is crafted by hand, so clients can request modifications to any of the pieces of jewelry in the catalog, or they can even commission one based on their own design. The business is eco-friendly since its products are frequently made from recycled materials, which gives them a vintage appeal.
Apoterra Skincare
This brand manufactures and sells skincare products that are rich in nutrients and environmentally friendly. Apoterra Skincare was founded in 2012 by Dominique Caron. This is the story of how demand resulted in supply. Dominique struggled to find suitable products for her sensitive, rash-prone skin. As a result, she decided to start her own company to make these kinds of products. They pride themselves on safety, environmental cleanliness and efficiency.
Apoterra Skincare cosmetics are made entirely with natural components. After studying the beneficial properties of plants, their specialists develop nutrient-rich products. All components are vegan, with the exception of honey and beeswax. Most importantly, the goods are not being tested on animals. Cosmetics formulas do not contain carcinogens or other chemicals that may affect the endocrine system and cause irritation. The brand is environmentally conscious, employing glass and biodegradable packaging materials rather than plastic.
By the way, according to the Small Business Administration, small firms created 1.8 million job opportunities in the United States in 2019 alone. Apoterra Skincare mostly employs cosmetologists, chemical technologists and sales representatives. By supporting small businesses, you help to achieve the American dream. According to this concept, every resident of the United States can achieve success through hard work, determination, perseverance and courage. This notion holds that everyone has an equal opportunity to achieve their personal dreams and goals. Small business owners not only believe in this dream but actively pursue it. Therefore, it is critical to support honest, sincere people who strongly believe in their business and want to make a positive difference in society.