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The Mom & Pop Store: How the Unsung Heroes of the American Economy Are Surviving and Thriving
A celebration of the history of small, independent retail and the story of how mom & pop stores across the country still thrive on attentive customer service and renewed community support for local businesses.
Business journalist Robert Spector grew up working in his family's butcher shop in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, where he learned invaluable lessons about the independent retail business-and about life. Mom & pop stores have always brought people together, fostering a sense of neighborhood identity and camaraderie, and are the glue that connects people in big cities and small towns alike. Long fascinated by the "direct connection" people feel as merchants and customers when they do business in neighborhood shops, and responding to the growing "buy local" movement across the country, Spector sets out to discover the state, and the state of mind, of independent retailing in America. From a specialty soda pop shop in Los Angeles to a florist shop in Dayton, Ohio, from a bakery in Chicago to a bookstore in Bellingham, Washington, mom & pop store owners shared their stories with him, revealing the spirit and tenacity of the small business owner, dealing with frustration and defeat as well as triumph and success. Spector also interweaves the history of independent retailing. The Mom & Pop Store reflects the story of this country, for it embraces and cross-references every ethnic group and virtually every element of our society.
Business journalist Robert Spector grew up working in his family's butcher shop in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, where he learned invaluable lessons about the independent retail business-and about life. Mom & pop stores have always brought people together, fostering a sense of neighborhood identity and camaraderie, and are the glue that connects people in big cities and small towns alike. Long fascinated by the "direct connection" people feel as merchants and customers when they do business in neighborhood shops, and responding to the growing "buy local" movement across the country, Spector sets out to discover the state, and the state of mind, of independent retailing in America. From a specialty soda pop shop in Los Angeles to a florist shop in Dayton, Ohio, from a bakery in Chicago to a bookstore in Bellingham, Washington, mom & pop store owners shared their stories with him, revealing the spirit and tenacity of the small business owner, dealing with frustration and defeat as well as triumph and success. Spector also interweaves the history of independent retailing. The Mom & Pop Store reflects the story of this country, for it embraces and cross-references every ethnic group and virtually every element of our society.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published September 15, 2009
About the author
Robert Spector
45 books4 followersRobert Spector is an author of business books, consultant and motivational speaker focusing on customer service.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 5, 2009
For many Americans, the phrase "mom and pop store" is irresistible, bringing back memories of a favorite candy store or corner grocery, usually run by an irascible immigrant with a hidden soft side. It's no news at all, of course, that the advent of monolithic chain stores and "big box" "category-killers," to use retailing parlance, threatens the existence of these embattled gems.
With "The Mom & Pop Store: How the Unsung Heroes of the American Economy Are Surviving and Thriving," Seattle-based business guru Robert Spector has written a celebration of the traditional virtues of such shops and a proclamation of their continued vitality. Spector crisscrossed the country, speaking to the owners of small operations from classic Jewish delis to Southern barbershops to funky Little Havana fruterias, listening to their stories and asking about their secrets to success. The common themes are no surprise: Customer service and a friendly atmosphere are the not-so-secret weapons against corporate competitors. In Dayton, Bill Furst of Furst Florist says, "We don't want to be the largest; we just want to be the best," before asking the author, "When you came through the front door, were you greeted with a smile?"
The stories that Spector has gathered are cheering testimonials to the value of hard work and creative retailing, heartwarming in this day of conglomerates. Despite his good intentions and obvious affection for his subjects, however, the author provides little evidence that these success stories are the norm rather than the exception.
Although Spector breezily begins with the assertion that "after the apocalypse, the only survivors will be cockroaches and mom & pop stores," he doesn't back it up. He offers few clues to how small-business owners can compete with the Wal-Marts or Best Buys, whose prices are kept low by vast economies of scale and whose computerized "just-in-time" inventories and national distribution offer immediate access to nearly limitless items.
Readers who enjoy Capra-esque stories about plucky general merchandising outfits run by colorful individualists will enjoy Spector's book. Those who are looking for a nuts-and-bolts account of how mom and pop stores can thrive in today's chilly retail climate will have to seek it elsewhere.
From the Cleveland Plain Dealer, September 13, 2009
With "The Mom & Pop Store: How the Unsung Heroes of the American Economy Are Surviving and Thriving," Seattle-based business guru Robert Spector has written a celebration of the traditional virtues of such shops and a proclamation of their continued vitality. Spector crisscrossed the country, speaking to the owners of small operations from classic Jewish delis to Southern barbershops to funky Little Havana fruterias, listening to their stories and asking about their secrets to success. The common themes are no surprise: Customer service and a friendly atmosphere are the not-so-secret weapons against corporate competitors. In Dayton, Bill Furst of Furst Florist says, "We don't want to be the largest; we just want to be the best," before asking the author, "When you came through the front door, were you greeted with a smile?"
The stories that Spector has gathered are cheering testimonials to the value of hard work and creative retailing, heartwarming in this day of conglomerates. Despite his good intentions and obvious affection for his subjects, however, the author provides little evidence that these success stories are the norm rather than the exception.
Although Spector breezily begins with the assertion that "after the apocalypse, the only survivors will be cockroaches and mom & pop stores," he doesn't back it up. He offers few clues to how small-business owners can compete with the Wal-Marts or Best Buys, whose prices are kept low by vast economies of scale and whose computerized "just-in-time" inventories and national distribution offer immediate access to nearly limitless items.
Readers who enjoy Capra-esque stories about plucky general merchandising outfits run by colorful individualists will enjoy Spector's book. Those who are looking for a nuts-and-bolts account of how mom and pop stores can thrive in today's chilly retail climate will have to seek it elsewhere.
From the Cleveland Plain Dealer, September 13, 2009
November 27, 2010
Spector begins with his family's history in Perth Amboy, New Jersey as owners of a butcher shop, and continues with anecdotes from other longtime small business owners in the area. Next is a history of small business, beginning several thousand years BC and anecdotes from mom and pop shops around the world. Finally, Spector describes the mom and pop shops and small businesses in his more recent home (of 30 years) in West Seattle. He lightly makes a plea on behalf of less regulation for small businesses and the importance of young people patronizing small businesses.
This was a very light and easy read. Some of the anecdotes were more interesting than others and I found the middle section (where Spector interviews small business owners around the world) the most interesting. Though I enjoyed this book well enough, I'm not sure that there is much for me to take away from it. I do have a (very slightly) better understanding of the reasons to patronize small businesses now, but this importance wasn't really news to me. All in all, this book is exactly what it intended to be - a celebration of famliy businesses and an acknowledgement of the risk and hard work that it takes to make such a business succeed.
Themes: USA, history, economics, business, anecdotal/feel-good, family
This was a very light and easy read. Some of the anecdotes were more interesting than others and I found the middle section (where Spector interviews small business owners around the world) the most interesting. Though I enjoyed this book well enough, I'm not sure that there is much for me to take away from it. I do have a (very slightly) better understanding of the reasons to patronize small businesses now, but this importance wasn't really news to me. All in all, this book is exactly what it intended to be - a celebration of famliy businesses and an acknowledgement of the risk and hard work that it takes to make such a business succeed.
Themes: USA, history, economics, business, anecdotal/feel-good, family
February 21, 2010
My mother has been the sole proprietor of a gift shop in a small town for about 35 years. I grew up working there and to this day put in time at the wholesale marts and on the sales floor when I’m home visiting. I picked up this book from the library with my mom in mind. She came for a visit and took it home with her to finish. Rather than me write a review, I thought I would quote her letter that came in the mail when she sent the book back (we believe in returning things to the library).
“This book is just wonderful. It validates my adult life! …A nice travel over the country visiting independents, call for supporting local independent business, many points made about people who work where they live and how they support community. Some Chicago businesses highlighted are Dinkel’s Bakery in North Central Lakeview and Miller’s Lumber on Division in Bucktown/Wicker Park. Go buy something from them. Also lots of stories about immigrants which I am always drawn to. This was a very good read. I just kept muttering ‘That’s right”, “What a great way to say that”, and “That’s just what I think.’”
“This book is just wonderful. It validates my adult life! …A nice travel over the country visiting independents, call for supporting local independent business, many points made about people who work where they live and how they support community. Some Chicago businesses highlighted are Dinkel’s Bakery in North Central Lakeview and Miller’s Lumber on Division in Bucktown/Wicker Park. Go buy something from them. Also lots of stories about immigrants which I am always drawn to. This was a very good read. I just kept muttering ‘That’s right”, “What a great way to say that”, and “That’s just what I think.’”
October 21, 2009
I think this book is very interesting and educational. I love the way the writer explains things and helped you to tune into the characters he portrayed.
August 8, 2019
Found this book in the dollar section of The Strand, an independent bookstore in lower Manhattan. Make of it what you will.
Like other reviews, I agree that Spector’s book is a good story. Lots of positive history and anecdotes. A street level eye view of the local retail world, similar to Tom Friedman’s political stories. If you are looking for or enjoy such stories, add a star.
But while he makes an argument for the local mom & pop shops, the rose-colored view of the industry, not just for small, independent retailers, but larger regional and national chains, does not hold up well. The United States as a country has been over-stored for decades, and with the growth of online shopping, has resulted in entire sections of the retail industry come crashing down. While bricks and mortar operations have a place for consumers, the value proposition has shifted, as dot.com businesses operate with larger inventories, are “open” more hours, more conveniently, and with shipping Infrastructure improvements, can get goods to consumers extremely rapidly.
While Mr Spector points to these local stores as lynch pins of the community, the understanding is that consumers operate otherwise. And this has left holes in commercial downtowns across the country. There is less need for such enterprises. And as was noted in the book, things continue to change and evolve. Just as we no longer have merchant guilds and shopping towns, so too, will retail change. For brick and mortar businesses, their owners need to re-evaluate the value proposition between their business and consumers, looking for new ways to draw in profitable customers. While some have argued for more experiential shopping, there are only so many experiences to be had in any one town to keep a commercial district whole.
Like other reviews, I agree that Spector’s book is a good story. Lots of positive history and anecdotes. A street level eye view of the local retail world, similar to Tom Friedman’s political stories. If you are looking for or enjoy such stories, add a star.
But while he makes an argument for the local mom & pop shops, the rose-colored view of the industry, not just for small, independent retailers, but larger regional and national chains, does not hold up well. The United States as a country has been over-stored for decades, and with the growth of online shopping, has resulted in entire sections of the retail industry come crashing down. While bricks and mortar operations have a place for consumers, the value proposition has shifted, as dot.com businesses operate with larger inventories, are “open” more hours, more conveniently, and with shipping Infrastructure improvements, can get goods to consumers extremely rapidly.
While Mr Spector points to these local stores as lynch pins of the community, the understanding is that consumers operate otherwise. And this has left holes in commercial downtowns across the country. There is less need for such enterprises. And as was noted in the book, things continue to change and evolve. Just as we no longer have merchant guilds and shopping towns, so too, will retail change. For brick and mortar businesses, their owners need to re-evaluate the value proposition between their business and consumers, looking for new ways to draw in profitable customers. While some have argued for more experiential shopping, there are only so many experiences to be had in any one town to keep a commercial district whole.
January 5, 2015
Good beginning, goes downhill quickly. In the age of Amazon.com, Google Express, big box brands, etc., what about the little mom and pop shops? What will become of them? How did they get started? How do they adapt? what is so appealing about the small, independent stores? What makes people come back?
These are the questions author Spector looks at in his book. The son of a man who once owned his own shop, the author examines the rises of such stores and the people who made them: immigrants, retirees, people who wanted to do or create something.
And while many of these stories are quite interesting (from an immigrant's journey to seeing how one small place ended up becoming Pizza Hut to the backstory of the Politics & Prose bookstore in Washington DC), the book gets quite tedious. He starts off pretty well when talking about his own family's history and how his family immigrated from Ukraine to the US. How the author himself actually disliked working at the store as a teen (and identifies with the young men and women bored behind the counter of places he patronizes) but recognizes what working there gave him, as he became a journalist and author that looked at things like customer service in business.
But the book is just not well-written. After he talked a bit about his family history, I was eager for him to move on. But his other parts about other businesses also got pretty boring pretty fast too. I'm not sure what exactly it is about his writing style: it's very personable, and yet it just couldn't keep my interest. The most intriguing parts are the actual stories themselves: one bookstore's owners had to evacuate to avoid Hurricane Katrina and could not return due to Hurricane Rita.
But eventually they did and shared how many notes, emails, calls, etc. of appreciation that people had when they found their store was open and up for business, vs. the Barnes & Noble that waited another 6 months. One of the proprietors even admitted he could argue the case for Barnes choosing not to return.
It's an interesting idea, but poorly executed. This would be of interest to those who are considering opening a similar style of store but I'd recommend borrowing it from the library (it's not a how-to book, but more like a history/memoir type).
These are the questions author Spector looks at in his book. The son of a man who once owned his own shop, the author examines the rises of such stores and the people who made them: immigrants, retirees, people who wanted to do or create something.
And while many of these stories are quite interesting (from an immigrant's journey to seeing how one small place ended up becoming Pizza Hut to the backstory of the Politics & Prose bookstore in Washington DC), the book gets quite tedious. He starts off pretty well when talking about his own family's history and how his family immigrated from Ukraine to the US. How the author himself actually disliked working at the store as a teen (and identifies with the young men and women bored behind the counter of places he patronizes) but recognizes what working there gave him, as he became a journalist and author that looked at things like customer service in business.
But the book is just not well-written. After he talked a bit about his family history, I was eager for him to move on. But his other parts about other businesses also got pretty boring pretty fast too. I'm not sure what exactly it is about his writing style: it's very personable, and yet it just couldn't keep my interest. The most intriguing parts are the actual stories themselves: one bookstore's owners had to evacuate to avoid Hurricane Katrina and could not return due to Hurricane Rita.
But eventually they did and shared how many notes, emails, calls, etc. of appreciation that people had when they found their store was open and up for business, vs. the Barnes & Noble that waited another 6 months. One of the proprietors even admitted he could argue the case for Barnes choosing not to return.
It's an interesting idea, but poorly executed. This would be of interest to those who are considering opening a similar style of store but I'd recommend borrowing it from the library (it's not a how-to book, but more like a history/memoir type).
November 7, 2009
I love supporting independent, neighborhood stores, but I didn't really know much about the history of them or all the time and energy that went into making these sort of shops a success. The author of this book tries to paint a picture of how mom and pop stores have influenced cities and communities and why their success is so important for individuals, as well as the economy in general. A number of owners of such stores are featured in here, explaining how they got where they are today and giving advice to others.
It was fascinating to learn how some stores have made such an impact on their community, with the store being such a meeting point for people to catch up. I loved the description of how one shop made the "best" ice cream in the world, and it made me want to travel there just to try it. The author brought up the idea that these sort of shops thrive when the focus is on service, and people should want to help their neighbor's business succeed, even if it costs them slightly more than purchases at a large chain store. He explained the impact of these shops on the economy, noting how many small stores open and how they grow and, over time, succeed.
While I found the individual stories interesting, the book began with nearly too much history of the author's own family history with his family's market. The book, as a whole, felt like it was lacking something, preventing it from going deeper into the subject matter and really making a difference; as it was, the book read as a collection of individual stories from mom and pop shop owners, which is interesting, but not particularly groundbreaking.
The book did, however, leave me with a greater respect for those who devote so much time and energy into owning their own business. It's certainly a great idea to be one's own boss, but it's also a lot of time, energy, expense, and headache. I also really liked the author's suggestion that these independent shops are the ones that give cities "flavor" - anywhere can have chain stores; independent stores are what makes a city or town unique and provide it with character.
It was fascinating to learn how some stores have made such an impact on their community, with the store being such a meeting point for people to catch up. I loved the description of how one shop made the "best" ice cream in the world, and it made me want to travel there just to try it. The author brought up the idea that these sort of shops thrive when the focus is on service, and people should want to help their neighbor's business succeed, even if it costs them slightly more than purchases at a large chain store. He explained the impact of these shops on the economy, noting how many small stores open and how they grow and, over time, succeed.
While I found the individual stories interesting, the book began with nearly too much history of the author's own family history with his family's market. The book, as a whole, felt like it was lacking something, preventing it from going deeper into the subject matter and really making a difference; as it was, the book read as a collection of individual stories from mom and pop shop owners, which is interesting, but not particularly groundbreaking.
The book did, however, leave me with a greater respect for those who devote so much time and energy into owning their own business. It's certainly a great idea to be one's own boss, but it's also a lot of time, energy, expense, and headache. I also really liked the author's suggestion that these independent shops are the ones that give cities "flavor" - anywhere can have chain stores; independent stores are what makes a city or town unique and provide it with character.
April 16, 2020
This book is equal parts love story (with small business), biography and economics history. While I could see how some of the biographical details could get a little stale and repetitive for some readers, I felt that it really helped frame the nuts and bolts of what it means to be a small shop owner. Spector did a good job of covering small shop owners, in all industries, from across the whole country.
It was interesting to see all of the similarities in all of these family-owned businesses. And how these lessons learned translate into community and a sense of creating a better place. All of the shop owners seemed to share a strong sense of pride in their work their families and for caring for the customer. None of these shop owners are set to take over the world, but you can see how each street is better off for having had that privately owned company there. I don't want to overly-romanticize the impact of all of these small businesses, but they all sure seem to have a clue that the rest of corporate America could use.
Sprinkled throughout all of these family histories and shop stories are economic nuggets and facts. Such as, "shop" is derived from an Old Saxon or German word for "porch", from a time when people sold their wares from the front porches of their homes. It's also fun to read how attitudes towards salesmen and shop owners ebb. Spector quotes Nietzche, "Merchant and pirate were for a long period one and the same person. Even today mercantile morality is really nothing but a refinement of piratical morality."
Even though some of the shop histories and family stories run long and blur in their sameness, this is a book that has stuck with me and one that I will continue to recommend.
It was interesting to see all of the similarities in all of these family-owned businesses. And how these lessons learned translate into community and a sense of creating a better place. All of the shop owners seemed to share a strong sense of pride in their work their families and for caring for the customer. None of these shop owners are set to take over the world, but you can see how each street is better off for having had that privately owned company there. I don't want to overly-romanticize the impact of all of these small businesses, but they all sure seem to have a clue that the rest of corporate America could use.
Sprinkled throughout all of these family histories and shop stories are economic nuggets and facts. Such as, "shop" is derived from an Old Saxon or German word for "porch", from a time when people sold their wares from the front porches of their homes. It's also fun to read how attitudes towards salesmen and shop owners ebb. Spector quotes Nietzche, "Merchant and pirate were for a long period one and the same person. Even today mercantile morality is really nothing but a refinement of piratical morality."
Even though some of the shop histories and family stories run long and blur in their sameness, this is a book that has stuck with me and one that I will continue to recommend.
October 9, 2010
I won this in a Goodreads giveaway. I was expecting a nostalgic look at Mom and Pops. It wasn't nostalgic in the least. It was about the vibrancy of small business owners and families that truly enjoy working together.
Spector begins with his own memories of his family's butcher shop in NJ. His family was not one that loved working together, yet Spector reflects on what he learned about business and life from his early years working there.
We are then introduced to a variety of small business owners. Each of these vignettes is used to illustrate a trait that he sees as essential to thriving in a family business. Beyond the ability to run a successful business, Spector shows shop owners who thrive on the hard work involved. I liked how he interlaced the stories, bringing us back to a shop owner we'd met earlier in the book. It gave the feel of going back to their shop as a return customer. Both multi-generational family businesses and new small business owners were featured.
The final chapter is basically a plea to patronize small businesses. I'm already anti-chain restaurant, but admit I do not usually think about other small businesses. In large part, I think this is due to living where there are so few of them.
Spector begins with his own memories of his family's butcher shop in NJ. His family was not one that loved working together, yet Spector reflects on what he learned about business and life from his early years working there.
We are then introduced to a variety of small business owners. Each of these vignettes is used to illustrate a trait that he sees as essential to thriving in a family business. Beyond the ability to run a successful business, Spector shows shop owners who thrive on the hard work involved. I liked how he interlaced the stories, bringing us back to a shop owner we'd met earlier in the book. It gave the feel of going back to their shop as a return customer. Both multi-generational family businesses and new small business owners were featured.
The final chapter is basically a plea to patronize small businesses. I'm already anti-chain restaurant, but admit I do not usually think about other small businesses. In large part, I think this is due to living where there are so few of them.
December 22, 2009
One of the things that I like most about First Reads is the exposure to books that I might have never actually picked up myself. I tend to read fiction, mostly novels, and occasionally some non-fiction that somehow touches on medicine. So, a non-fiction book on business is not something that I would typically read. With that said, I really enjoyed this book. It gives some great insight into why mom-and-pop stores are doing okay in this terrible economy, and provides a very convincing argument about how we, as consumers, should frequent these smaller, friendlier places more than the "big-box" chains. I really liked the specific examples that Mr. Spector uses to show these things, especially his discussions about Hobby's in Newark, NJ, where I've eaten (it was excellent!) and where my medical school has gotten food catered from. I also really liked his focus on New Jersey, where he grew up - it's always fun to recognize places in books. Anyway, this book is an easy read (even for someone who knows next to nothing about business), and left me with an appreciation for stores like these.
January 20, 2011
Nonfiction account of the Mom & Pop stores around America. Stories of how some chain stores & brands (like Pizza Hut and Calvin Klein) started as well as the average American store that is surviving based on their great service and product. Some of the history (like the Perth Amboy area) was a little long for my taste but I would love for this author to do a piece on the Mom & Pop stores in my area - because sometimes you don't even know they exist until you wander in one day. It made me think twice about where I spend my money (not that I'm boycotting Walmart & their cheap deals) and maybe I'll be less stingy when it comes to spending a few extra bucks to support the local rather than the big guy.
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About the book store business: "This is no way to get rich...If this is your passion, it's a great way to make a living. But if you're opening a bookstore because you love reading books, then become a night watchman because you'll be able to read more books that way."
"A mom & pop store always represents hope - the hope of the proprietor and the hope of the community."
-------------------------------------------------
About the book store business: "This is no way to get rich...If this is your passion, it's a great way to make a living. But if you're opening a bookstore because you love reading books, then become a night watchman because you'll be able to read more books that way."
"A mom & pop store always represents hope - the hope of the proprietor and the hope of the community."
June 4, 2010
When Robert Spector's father died, he reflected on the kind of man he was, a Russian immigrant who came to America with only an eighth-grade education but despite this, he went on to own and operate a butcher shop in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Robert considered his father a hero and it wasn't until he was older that he realized how hard he had worked to maintain a family-owned business and it is this realization that inspired the author to write this book. So for two years, he traveled across the United States and even went abroad to interview different owners of mom and pop businesses. In a way, this book is a tribute to his father and shop owners everywhere.
I read this book with great interest since my husband and I owned a party supply store at one time. I enjoyed working with the customers, especially the brides who would come in and order wedding invitations but as much fun as it was to be a proprietor, it was a lot of work too.
The author's message is that while it is hard, it is not an impossible goal to achieve.
I read this book with great interest since my husband and I owned a party supply store at one time. I enjoyed working with the customers, especially the brides who would come in and order wedding invitations but as much fun as it was to be a proprietor, it was a lot of work too.
The author's message is that while it is hard, it is not an impossible goal to achieve.
November 12, 2009
I won another book on Goodreads! I thought this would be interesting since we own one of those small businesses. I also thought it would be an interesting read for my husband Alex.
Updated: First off, I LOVED this book. I found it a fascinating look into small business, and more specifically of course Mom and Pop stores. I didn't think I would like this book as much as I did by the way. There was a lot of history in this book that outweighed the economics that I'm not as interested in.
He talks first about growing up as the son of a butcher and the family business. It talks about why they were successful. Then he hits the road and talks to people throughout the US including Japan and London. He finds out what makes them successful and discusses it.
This book will stay put on myself and be used as part of my children's economics studies in "high school." This book is well written, funny and very informative.
Updated: First off, I LOVED this book. I found it a fascinating look into small business, and more specifically of course Mom and Pop stores. I didn't think I would like this book as much as I did by the way. There was a lot of history in this book that outweighed the economics that I'm not as interested in.
He talks first about growing up as the son of a butcher and the family business. It talks about why they were successful. Then he hits the road and talks to people throughout the US including Japan and London. He finds out what makes them successful and discusses it.
This book will stay put on myself and be used as part of my children's economics studies in "high school." This book is well written, funny and very informative.
November 1, 2009
I thought this was pretty interesting reading. In the beginning the book focused on Mom and Pop businesses who didn't make it. It looks like a lot of business were either driven out by larger retailers or third and fourth generations who didn't want to bother with the business and let is falter.
The second half of the book focused on those who made it and why. It all comes back to people who are dedicated. You have to be willing to work seven days and week and be able to be working behind the counter, HR, accountant, etc.. all in one. And the entire family works in the business with you. It is all they have ever known.
These people want to be their own boss and not report to anyone else. Personally I wouldn't want to do it. I like going to work at set hours, receive medical coverage cheaply because I am in a large corporation and knowing when I am on vacation there is someone covering for me. It wouldn't be for me.
The second half of the book focused on those who made it and why. It all comes back to people who are dedicated. You have to be willing to work seven days and week and be able to be working behind the counter, HR, accountant, etc.. all in one. And the entire family works in the business with you. It is all they have ever known.
These people want to be their own boss and not report to anyone else. Personally I wouldn't want to do it. I like going to work at set hours, receive medical coverage cheaply because I am in a large corporation and knowing when I am on vacation there is someone covering for me. It wouldn't be for me.
September 20, 2010
I won this book from Goodreads.com back in November '09.
I wish I've would have read it sooner. I didn't realize what an impact that Mom & Pop stores had on a whole communty. I just that people just wanted their business or that just got sick of working for other people. Why not start a business if you can? This book set me straight on the in and outs in Mom & Pop businesses. I look at these businesses as speciality stores. The stores I've been into had product that no other store had. If the local 7-Eleven didn't have an item, I walked to the Mom & Pop grocery store that was a little far away. I never took notice that the Mom & Pop stores was a special part of a community, city, etc.
I like how the author told his story at the beginning of his working in the family store. At the end, he drive to all these different businesses to do interviews with different types of Mom & Pop businesses. A good educational book.
I wish I've would have read it sooner. I didn't realize what an impact that Mom & Pop stores had on a whole communty. I just that people just wanted their business or that just got sick of working for other people. Why not start a business if you can? This book set me straight on the in and outs in Mom & Pop businesses. I look at these businesses as speciality stores. The stores I've been into had product that no other store had. If the local 7-Eleven didn't have an item, I walked to the Mom & Pop grocery store that was a little far away. I never took notice that the Mom & Pop stores was a special part of a community, city, etc.
I like how the author told his story at the beginning of his working in the family store. At the end, he drive to all these different businesses to do interviews with different types of Mom & Pop businesses. A good educational book.
November 3, 2009
This is subtitled "How the Unsung Heroes of the American Economy Are Surviving and Thriving". It's divided into three sections. The first deals with the author's recollections of his family's businesses. The second (my favorite part) deals with many stories of real, currently operating mom-and-pop stores throughout the country. Some of the ideas presented are redundant, but I guess that just means that some methods are pretty much universal, i.e. customer service is paramount, be physically present in your business, etc. The latter section is stories from the community including how we, as consumers, can help these stores survive in the face of the "big box" competition. They survive with superior service and unless we recognize that, they're doomed. Happily, there are plenty of consumers out there for whom service and locally owned businesses are worth a few cents more. This is an eye-opening book about an important topic in our economic culture.
August 21, 2011
Being the "mom" in a mom & pop store, I needed to read something to boost my morale when battling Big Box Stores and City bureaucracy. This book did the trick. I learned a little, but was reminded of a lot, of why Mom & Pop stores exist, and thrive, in this era of corporations, where one city blends into another in an endless chain of chain stores. The stores that stick out now ARE the small, locally owned businesses, that know their customers, and know what they want, offering something that the big corporations can't offer.
I would think this book might be even more interesting from the "other side", if you aren't a small business owner. I know I am more motivated than ever to shop locally, even though it's been my mantra for many years.
Highly recommended for a visit into the small business mindset. Great examples throughout this book of why these Mom & Pop stores featured are still around, against the odds.
I would think this book might be even more interesting from the "other side", if you aren't a small business owner. I know I am more motivated than ever to shop locally, even though it's been my mantra for many years.
Highly recommended for a visit into the small business mindset. Great examples throughout this book of why these Mom & Pop stores featured are still around, against the odds.
November 13, 2009
This is an excellent inspirational book for anyone who is running a small business, or who knows someone who is doing such.
The success stories are fascinating and varied, and the context of small business within the development of American culture is both inspiring and helpful.
This is NOT a book that gives any particular lessons about running a small business, or making it succeed; if you're looking for that, this is not the best choice.
However: we're seeing a lot of media stuff these days about how small businesses are DOOMED!!!! I found this book an excellent anecdote to that; it shows, through anecdotes and examples, how this ain't necessarily so (quite a relief to me, since as a small business owner myself, I've been growing concerned!).
Apart from the above, it's an engaging and fascinating read, and I enjoyed it very much.
(I received this as a review copy.)
The success stories are fascinating and varied, and the context of small business within the development of American culture is both inspiring and helpful.
This is NOT a book that gives any particular lessons about running a small business, or making it succeed; if you're looking for that, this is not the best choice.
However: we're seeing a lot of media stuff these days about how small businesses are DOOMED!!!! I found this book an excellent anecdote to that; it shows, through anecdotes and examples, how this ain't necessarily so (quite a relief to me, since as a small business owner myself, I've been growing concerned!).
Apart from the above, it's an engaging and fascinating read, and I enjoyed it very much.
(I received this as a review copy.)
December 2, 2009
I won this book as a Goodreads First-reads. In a way, this book begins as a memoir, with the author giving us a firts-hand look at life in his father's butcher shop when he was a kid. The story gives us the viewpoint from the owners of small businesses, how they have stuggled, remained successful, and simply gotten by. He reminds us of how valuable the neighborhood shop is, the small business where the customer and the merchant actually interact and have a relationship. There is some history involved so we can all get a good idea of how the concept of the small business started. I enjoyed the stories because I worked in a small business through high school and college and saw how hard the store owners worked and how much of their lives they gave to that little store.
November 3, 2010
Spector has collected stories of these kind of shops and has entwined them into a collection that reveals the movement and traditions through the ensuing decades. There are many stories and histories of 'Mom and Pop' families who have carried on the traditions of this kind of shop.
I remembered with nostalgia the many hours spent with my closest friend and she waiting on customers in a little gas and goodies type of station. We grew up together in the midst of that experience.
This will be of interest to any and all who enjoyed similar experiences as they too grew up.
This is the growth of an American way of life.
I had a difficult time getting into this one. I read the first 20 pages and then it just sat there for a long time.
I remembered with nostalgia the many hours spent with my closest friend and she waiting on customers in a little gas and goodies type of station. We grew up together in the midst of that experience.
This will be of interest to any and all who enjoyed similar experiences as they too grew up.
This is the growth of an American way of life.
I had a difficult time getting into this one. I read the first 20 pages and then it just sat there for a long time.
February 22, 2010
Fun book, and I enjoyed the portraits of retail history over the last century. Spector does an especially good job of talking about how immigrant families have prospered through the businesses they started. However, it's hard to shake the feeling that a lot of the store owners profiled here are living on borrowed time.
The retailers who are building strong in-store communities will probably last the longest, but the demographic that is comfortable ordering almost everything online gets broader every day. There are a lot of businesses out there where physical contact and service a huge part of the experience (barbershops! restaurants!), but I'm not sure retail is one of them any more.
The retailers who are building strong in-store communities will probably last the longest, but the demographic that is comfortable ordering almost everything online gets broader every day. There are a lot of businesses out there where physical contact and service a huge part of the experience (barbershops! restaurants!), but I'm not sure retail is one of them any more.
October 7, 2010
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway contest. Full of many inspirational stories of mom and pop store owners and their lives and experiences. I commend this book for having so many anecdotes and obviously well researched information. The author is the son of a butcher from Perth Amboy New Jersey, and he did not follow his father into the business but had helped in the store during his teen years. After his father's death, he decides to write about what made the store a success and in the course of writing that book interviews many other store owners throughout the US and in Japan and in England.
November 19, 2009
I was honestly surprised to find that this book was far less like an academic research piece than I'd imagined. I loved the author's own anecdotes about his family business, and I really appreciated the stories he told about little Mom and Pop stores operating today. There were moments where the text dragged the tiniest bit, but overall I was definitely entertained. A good read. I'd recommend it to economy or business students who are looking for something lighter and more fun to read in their field.
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May 14, 2010If you've ever doubted the importance of independent retailers, Robert Spector's book will convince you. He talks about his own background growing up in a family business in New Jersey, and goes on to profile many small businesses around the country and in England. Happily he uses the term "Mom and Pop" fairly broadly, since not all of the stores he describes are owned by a married couple, but the message is that the relationships that build the business are important and the relationships with customers and staff that sustain the business are equally so.
April 29, 2010
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads, and I admit that I was a little skeptical about reading it. However once I finally started I found that I absolutely loved all the stories about how those little businesses that we all love have survived over the years. I sometimes find myself going to the bigger chain stores simply because they are cheaper, but after reading this book it's safe to say that I know my business will now be going to the much loved mom & pop stores.
January 21, 2016
You will think twice about buying items from "big box" stores or chain restaurants (assuming you have a Mom and Pop alternative in your town) after reading this book. It is an excellent read about how small business owners have survived the economic times of the last century and how they help one another and their community members when the chips are down. I admire their tenacity and strong willed personalities.
May 20, 2010
the first part of the book was kind of boring, it wasn't what i was expecting but it got more interesting in part II.
I enjoyed part III and I do agree with most of the points discussed in this book specially about buying local. I always try to do that and during my lunch hour I always have the usual, I love going to that place because they know me.
I enjoyed part III and I do agree with most of the points discussed in this book specially about buying local. I always try to do that and during my lunch hour I always have the usual, I love going to that place because they know me.
November 30, 2009
Interesting discussion of the "mom and pop" business model, mostly told by interviews with the owners on how and why they chose the small buisness route. It focuses almost exclusively on the retail sector, however, ignoring the many microbusinesses in the service, construction and manufacturing industries.
Still, an interesting, if somewhat disorganized read.
Still, an interesting, if somewhat disorganized read.
April 17, 2010
This could be a good book if your really into the local store scene. The book has many snippets of details of different small shops. I didn't think it flowed very well and I got bored with it. There was some good stuff in it, but I would rather have read it as a article in a newspaper rather than a book.
October 22, 2010
This was a Firstreads win for me, and unfortunately, the book and I were not a good fit. I was hoping for more than cute stories and wishful thinking, but this book is short on practical advice.
If you're interested in the author's reminiscences about growing up in a family which owned a small store and in stories from "Mom and Pop" retailers across the country, this is the book for you.
If you're interested in the author's reminiscences about growing up in a family which owned a small store and in stories from "Mom and Pop" retailers across the country, this is the book for you.
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