6-18-15 Changing your business model to match changing times and interests

As I wrote this title, I was thinking about Kim and David Tiller who own Whidbey Island Natural, based in Langley. Their story was just featured in the Business Spotlight on Whidbey Local.

They loved Whidbey Island, and chose to move here. Their business story emerged as each chose to leave their software jobs to create a business so they could work and live on the island.  Kim fell in love with the idea of making soap and Whidbey Island Soap Company emerged. David soon joined her. First, they had a business in Coupeville, then moved to a larger space in Langley.

The crash of the economy in 2008 forced them to change how they operated in order to maintain their business. They downsized the retail operation and began building an on-line presence. They also looked to other locations, both on and off the island, where other stores could sell their products.

Kim and David also changed the focus of their business so that they used only organic ingredients, and they expanded their line to include many healing products. They also are beginning to grow many of their own herbal ingredients.

Today, the business future for Whidbey Island Natural (the name was chosen to fit their new way of doing business) is looking bright.

Being flexible and willing to grow in new directions is important when you establish a business.