NAPLES SCORE Helps Business Startup
Olde Naples Marble & Granite



Greg and Linda Johnson, owners of Olde Naples Marble & Granite

In late 2004, Linda and Greg Johnson decided to try something totally new together. They decided they would open a high-end natural stone countertop business in an upscale area of Naples.

While Greg had previous experience in a family construction business, neither Greg nor Linda had previous experience in working with granite or marble countertops. But, they had a determination and fascination for a new challenge.

The Johnsons met twice with Naples SCORE counselors Roger Clapp and Henry Rambacher where they discussed the whole range of starting their new business venture. Linda attended the SCORE Workshop on Bookkeeping and Record Keeping and has since taken over the company books.

Greg and Linda found showroom space in the heart of Naples where customers can choose from a large selection of granite, marble and other exotic natural stones. They utilize quality licensed and insured fabricators and installers to create beautiful handcrafted edgework and seamless laminations. In addition to custom countertops, they do custom back splashes, shower surrounds, floors and any project involving the use of natural stone. Their attention to detail ensures the project is completed on time the first time.

It has now been a year since the Johnson's began their venture and they are happy to report that business is profitable and steadily growing. They have been able to connect with quality contractors and a high-end local cabinetmaker to increase sales volume even further.

The Johnsons attribute their success to a combination of offering a quality product and a hands-on follow through service.

SCORE's counseling services are all at no cost. SCORE offers counseling sessions on a one-on-one basis as well as workshops. E-mail counseling is offered as well to those who are out of the area, or prefer a cyber-meeting. SCORE is a partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration with close to 12,000 members and more than 350 chapters nationwide.

The Naples chapter ran 13 workshops last year with a total of 303 business people in attendance. Additionally, the chapter counseled 480 clients in face-to-face sessions.

We can be reached by e-mail at score@scorenaples.org or by phone at 239-430-0081. Our Web site is www.scorenaples.org

SCORE Counselor Roger Clapp

SCORE Counselor Henry Rambacher

Nature created the stone…we create the experience

287 Ninth Street South
Naples, FL 34102
239-262-7510/Fax 239-262-7511
oldenaplescountertops@earthlink.net