Mike's Hardware was one of the few businesses in New Orleans
that survived Hurricane Katrina with no physical damage. However,
the store struggled with the erosion of its client base caused by
the storm. With the help of its local small business development
center, the family-owned hardware store took steps to rebuild its
customer base.
Founded in 1981 in New Orleans, Mike's Hardware is owned and
operated by Mike Lafleur along with his sons Lee and Rob Lafleur.
To expand the store's services, the Lafleurs identified a
point-of-sale system, which electronically processes sales and
captures customer information, as a good investment.
The store received nearly $9,000 through Louisiana Economic
Development's Small and Emerging Business Development, or SEBD,
program toward the purchase of the system.
"The SBDC in New Orleans helped us with our SEBD application and
continues to follow up on our progress," Mike Lafleur said.
"Through the SEBD program, we received point-of-sale system
software and installation training. We hope that this new
computerized system will streamline our services, enabling
employees to interact more with customers, engage in outside sales
and secure commercial accounts."
Louisiana Small Business Development Center
Network provides low- or no-cost guidance and training for
small business owners and potential owners. Centers around the
state offer one-on-one counseling, training sessions and
business development resources.
