How do I buy a business?

Answer: Be Able to Take On Debt

Madison, Wisconsin: "Manufacturing is coming back!" is not prophetic verse but the reality of our advancing technologies where highly-educated workers can do it better, often faster, and sometimes cheaper than anywhere in the world.

Sara and Chris Fortune bought Graber Products in 1989 when it had 24 employees and $3.3 million in sales. When we taped this story there were up to 60 employees and with revenues over $10 million. They continue to grow, changed the name of the company to Saris Cycling Group, and are very committed to keeping their manufacturing in the USA.

This episode is a case in point: And, this story comes from the heartlands of America. These are the kind of people who love this country and all those basic freedoms to do the right thing in the face of adversity. They have done it right and now they ship their products around the world.

When Chris and Sara bought Graber Products, they bought a solid business with a good reputation, but the sales were flat. The employees were dedicated, but the company needed fresh energy to start growing again. To dump the stodgy image of the company that he bought, Chris found an Italian fashion designer who came up with improved form and function for his bike racks. Chris believed that the market was ready, willing and waiting for new ideas and he was right. Customers have flocked to the new products and employees love to come to work.

They're industry leaders. They're keeping manufacturing in America. And, their industry recognizes them for their generosity of spirit, moral courage, and ethical leadership. These people are truly quiet heroes,  among the new pioneers who are making our world a better place.