Sarasota-Based Company Builds Success from the Ground Up
Intra-State Terrazzo & Concrete of Sarasota County
When Andrea Couture acquired a terrazzo and concrete business in the vibrant community of Sarasota County, she made it her mission to make waves in the flooring industry. Specializing in terrazzo, concrete, and shellcrete applications, Intra-State Terrazzo & Concrete has distinguished itself through exceptional craftsmanship in both commercial and residential projects. Knowing she had a unique product that could transform spaces with beauty and durability, Couture also knew she would need the right guidance to keep her new business thriving.
Since acquiring the business, the new business owner faced challenges of gaining visibility, creating a solid business plan, and managing finances effectively. It was at this critical point that Couture turned to the Florida SBDC at USF for assistance. Once there, Couture was paired with Florida SBDC at USF business consultant and marketing specialist, Scott Carpenter for business guidance.
The Florida SBDC at USF provided a range of services designed to support the business in their growth and development. For this Sarasota-based company, the journey began with business planning. Crafting a detailed business plan allowed the business owner to set clear goals, identify potential obstacles, and strategize on overcoming these challenges.
“I started to work with the SBDC at USF because I needed to have some insight to do the acquisition of the business. I needed to have some support in building the business plan to have the financing as well as understanding the market in Sarasota and the area,” Andrea Couture said.
In addition to business planning, the business owner received an in-depth consultation on marketing strategies and financial guidance. “So Intra-State Terrazzo has grown since [working with] the SBDC at USF by giving us some good insight and financial management. On implementing marketing strategies and as well as opening up other doors to us and to the market and giving us great data to know where to go from where we are at currently,” Andrea Couture said. Carpenter’s help in developing a comprehensive marketing plan and providing useful market research increased their visibility within the community and led to beneficial results.
“So, we have doubled the revenue in the past three years,” Andrea Couture mentioned. As a result of the guidance, Couture was able to expand the company’s services and visibility which has brought in great revenue results. Their portfolio also now includes a wide range of impressive projects, from intricate residential flooring designs to expansive commercial installations.
Moving forward, Couture plans on using the Florida SBDC at USF whenever changes are made within the business. “We’re going to be using SBDC at USF going forward by participating in their workshop. Business is always evolving so we’re going to grow with them. There’s going to be some changes to be made as we add more products with our marketing as well as our financial forecast,” Andrea Couture said.
The support from the Florida SBDC at USF has not only helped the company grow but also empowered the owner with the knowledge and skills to continue thriving in a competitive industry. “Scott Carpenter has been very friendly, very competent in guiding me through the success where we are going, and we are at today,” Andrea Couture expressed.
Today, this terrazzo and concrete business stands as a shining example of what can be achieved with determination, hard work, and the right support. The business owner goes on to tell other small business owners why they should seek the Florida SBDC at USF as their support. “I would suggest any small businesses to work with the SBDC at USF because they are dedicated to small business, growing the entrepreneurial community all around,” Andrea Couture said.
With their foundation firmly set, the future looks bright for this Sarasota County business, as they continue to build beautiful and durable spaces for their clients.
