Hawkins Supply
Frank Hawkins, Owner
Monticello, Arkansas
Frank Hawkins was referred to the Arkansas Small Business development Center by a financial institution in Monticello. He contacted Kathryn Peacock, center director of the University of Arkansas - Monticello College of Technology - McGehee SBDC, for assistance with a business plan and financing to start a welding supply business.
Peacock worked with the client to outline a plan, provide information on the industry, welding resources, competitors, and formulate financial projections. Three banks expressed interest in the plan Hawkins presented, while a potential competitor approached him to establish a mutually beneficial supplier relationship rather than invest in a facility of his own. Financing was arranged through Union Bank & Trust in Monticello.
Hawkins Supply opened in May 2003 with the motto "Proud to Serve". The business sells and provides delivery of welding supplies, safety equipment and tools to welders, loggers, farmers and area industries Frank and Ashley Hawkins have since continued their learning and expansion efforts by attending the ASBDC's Selling to the Government seminar.
