L’PIP Rotisserie’ Recipe for Success

Persistence and dedication is the recipe for success.  Mr. Leonel Garza is well known at The University of Texas – Pan American Small Business Development Center (SBDC), a component of CoSERVE.  Over time, he has approached SBDC business counselor Arturo Gonzalez with several business ideas.  The most recent project involved reviving his past experience with his family’s restaurant business.

After evaluating and comparing the local grilled chicken eating establishments, he came to the conclusion that they all lacked a certain spark.  All had similar flavors and prepared their dishes as if they used the same marinade.  With that discovery, he decided to revive the family’s chicken rotisserie business using their authentic mesquite-based recipe.

This venture led Mr. Garza back to SBDC’s doorstep.  After careful planning, Mr. Garza’s vision became a reality.  “It was not an easy task. Mr. Gonzalez was instrumental throughout this process though, especially by taking the time to guide and educate me on the necessary steps and details to start a business venture such as this on.” notes Mr. Garza. “He opened my eyes to different marketing strategies and financing options.” 

Setting up the business had its usual snags.  Mr. Garza commented how he was surprised at how hard it was to coordinate efforts between the architect and the city.  In retrospect, one thing that he would have done differently is subcontracting all the work himself; it would have saved him time and money.  In addition to using his personal savings, Mr. Garza was also able to secure financing.

Looking towards the future, Mr. Garza plans to expand his menu items to feature regional traditional food with his own special touch. For those contemplating starting a business, Mr. Garza recommends, “Have a business plan developed in conjunction with the SBDC and take advantage of the local resources that are available to you.”