8
November 2024

Field to Fork to Finance

Thando Sikhosana
Staff Writer
In this article
From Field to Fork to Finance – Discover how Steve, the passionate owner of The Local Grill, blends his culinary expertise with savvy business strategies. With over 30 years of experience, Steve shares the challenges and triumphs of running an award-winning restaurant.
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Field to Fork to Finance

Steve, the owner of The Local Grill, is a seasoned professional in the food industry with over 30 years of experience. He humorously states, “Some people are born with a silver spoon in their mouths… I was born with a whisk in mine!” This reflects his deep-rooted passion for cuisine and the daily challenges posed by an industry that demands a lot from him. As the owner of this award-winning restaurant, he constantly multitasks and often faces the pressure of making quick, high-stakes decisions.

“2017 was incredibly tough on restaurants, and it is imperative that we continuously innovate and stay top of mind!” During this challenging time, Steve discovered Merchant Capital, which he turned to when he needed support the most. Although he was initially reluctant to take out a loan, he found comfort in Merchant Capital’s flexible terms, fast turnaround times, competitive rates, and the ongoing potential for re-advances. “No one else could do that!” he admits. “In times like these, Merchant Capital is an indispensable partner.”

Steve embraces a “field to fork” mentality, immersing himself in every aspect of his production line. He spends time on the farms, physically sourcing the best produce, and monitoring how it is farmed. He deeply cares about his industry: the treatment of livestock, ensuring the fields have enough water, and the safety of farmers, all while striving for a thriving industry.

Steve also wants partners who care about him as much as he does about his patrons and suppliers. Traditional lending was never an option for him, as he feels, “All my effort goes unnoticed by banks, which see restaurants as high-risk, making it impossible for us to get what we need to grow and thrive. But Merchant Capital, on the other hand, really tries to find the best possible solution for me and not for them.”

With his Merchant Cash Advance, Steve was able to settle debt and reinvest in his business, effectively empowering himself as an owner and regaining control of his establishment. Doing what you love can be challenging and can test you along the way. However, with perseverance and partners who genuinely care about his business, Steve believes that success is achievable.

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