List of the insights that I gained from the interview:

1. Johnny's Auto Parts

During our interview with Johnny's Auto Parts, we gained valuable insights into how industry experience and customer-focused practices contribute to business success.

They shared that the reason Mr. Johnny chose this type of business was because of his previous work experience in the same industry. This background gave him the knowledge and experience needed to understand how the business works. This just shows that it also plays a big impact on having prior industry knowledge and experience when planning and building a business.

Having been operating for two decades just shows that Johnny's Auto Parts has already built a strong reputation in the community for being reliable and customer service. It can be seen that they were able to cater to local demand and maintain customer loyalty over the years. Additionally, with their location, it is accessible to customers as there is a parking space, making it convenient for the customers who own a car.

2. Royal Glass Supply

In our interview, we gained valuable insights into both the history and challenges of managing Royal Glass Supply.

Ms. Emilou Tumilap, the manager of Royal Glass Supply, shared that before it became Royal Glass Supply, the business was originally known as Tay Chin Glass, established in 1965 by Mr. Sherwin's grandfather. The business has been passed down through the generations, from his grandfather to his father, and now to Mr. Sherwin. And this just helps keep their family's legacy alive and ensures that their valuable experience and traditions are preserved.

Another thing that Ms. Emilou shared with us during our interview was the problems that they faced. One of them is the installation, especially backdrops when doing a home service, as installing a backdrop can be difficult. Another problem is the parking space because it does not have enough area, which makes it a bit inconvenient to customers who have cars. And this just shows that it is really important to really organize and plan when having a business to make services more convenient for customers.

3. Tech-Converge I.T. Solutions

Tech-Converge I.T. Solutions gave us insights into the company’s growth and the importance of listening to customer needs.

We were amazed by the story behind why Ms. Catherine decided to open a physical store for Tech-Converge I.T. Solutions. Ms. Jenny, the salesperson, shared with us that the business originally operated from home in Opol. However, after receiving numerous suggestions from customers who wished for a physical store, Ms. Catherine took their advice and made it a reality. And in every business, it is really important to really take into consideration and listen to the needs and feedback of the customers.

Ms. Jenny also mentioned that customer complaints are one of the challenges they face. Some of these complaints arise when they install CCTVs that don’t function properly afterward. When we asked her if their location posed any issues, she said it wasn’t a problem because their store is well-placed, favoring good visibility and foot traffic. She also added that they are planning to expand in the future. This just shows that while they face some technical challenges, the business is strategically positioned and growing, with plans for further development.

4. Honyun Computer Store

Through our interview at Honyun Computer Store, we gained insights into how staff interaction and business challenges affect customer experience.

Ms. Shella Mae Tobito, one of the staff members, shared that since they sell surplus items, there are instances when customers complain about the products they purchase. She explained that while their location is advantageous and there aren’t many competitors in the area, they do face challenges with their parking lot. The limited parking space can create inconvenience for customers, potentially affecting their overall experience.

During the entire interview, me and my groupmates felt welcomed and at ease, as the staff were approachable and friendly. Because of this, our interview felt light, and we were not having a hard time asking them questions. This experience highlights how having approachable staff can foster open communication and make interactions more enjoyable for everyone, especially the customer.

5. NWOW Electric Bicycle

During our interview with NWOW Electric Bicycle, we gained insights into both the operational procedures and challenges faced by the business.

The staff that we interviewed shared that customers who want to buy an e-bike must submit requirements, like providing an ID, and some other legal requirements that correspond to having an e-bike. This process helps promote safety and legal use of an e-bike, as the company is focused on responsible and lawful business operations. 

One of the challenges that was mentioned by the staff is the store's location, which does not have enough space for a parking area to accommodate customers who have cars. This problem can make it difficult for customers who drive and can potentially affect the convenience of visiting the store and their overall experience. Addressing this issue could have better accessibility and can improve customer satisfaction.

- Having the opportunity to interview and learn about these businesses, we gained valuable insights into the importance of industry experience, customer service, and overcoming operational challenges. Whether it is about handling customer complaints or the space of the area, these businesses show how crucial it is to stay adaptable and focused on improving customer experience and satisfaction. 

We’re excited to share our third batch of interviews with business owners and managers in Cagayan de Oro, providing a closer look at their journeys and stories about how they have grown their businesses to what they are today.

Steve's Barbeque

Steve's Barbeque, operated by Dulce J. Asoy, is a renowned dining establishment located inside The Warehouse on Corrales Avenue in Cagayan de Oro City. Specializing in famous chicken barbecues, iconic sisig, and other delightful dishes, it opened its doors as the third branch of the restaurant on January 6, 2020. The original Steve's Barbeque was established in 1977 in Cogon owned by Casilda Ibanes Carson and has since expanded with multiple locations across the city. The restaurant targets local diners and barbecue enthusiasts, reaching new customers through social media promotions and word-of-mouth.

NLM CONSUMER GOODS TRADING

Next Level Millennial (NLM) Consumer Goods Trading, founded in 2020, focuses on selling household items and furniture. The business primarily targets customers through social media, conducting live selling on Facebook and TikTok. They also collaborate with resellers and retailers to expand their customer base, although most buyers are netizens. Walk-ins are welcome, but online sales dominate on Facebook. NLM offers discounts, with greater savings for customers who purchase multiple items. Loyal live viewers and sharers can also win giveaways, which they can claim at the store. The business started with a total of seven staff members. CEO Lenie Quinto, at 23 years old, is open to suggestions from her staff to improve and grow the company. She mentioned that she used to study at PHINMA COC College but then stopped and started the business as an online seller, supported by Manager Lenielyn. NLM plans to open more branches in the future.

BLEND AND BLOEM

Blend and Bloem is a fruit and vegetable store, launched in February 2024 and operates with 6 employees, depending on shifts. They offer negotiable discounts for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) and students, targeting fruit lovers and anyone craving fresh produce. The store has physical locations in Ororama, Buena Oro Macasandig, SM Downtown and SM Uptown. Their product offerings include local and imported fruits, fruit shakes, and healthy fruit snacks. However, they face challenges with limited supplies due to delivery logistics, as the owner manages deliveries from downtown to Ororama and the main store in Macasandig. Their main goal is to sell all products displayed daily. Blend and Bloem started as an online store before expanding to physical locations in August 2024.

Anster Autoworks

We virtually interviewed Anster Autoworks, which founded in 2019 and currently employs 12 staff members, including part-timers. Their main customers are business owners who use cars for work, and most inquiries come through their Facebook page and Marketplace. Anster Autoworks specializes in Surplus Japan Transformer Assembly and offers a range of services, including unit conversions, electrical and car air conditioning services, repainting and washover, and both "as-is" and finished units available for sale. To keep customers satisfied, they provide regular updates, such as pictures or videos of the cars, especially for clients located far away. Their key expenses include materials, electricity, and salaries, with a monthly budget of around ₱100,000, plus savings. In the future, they plan to expand their operations by working on more cars, growing their shop, and eventually opening additional branches, all while remaining adaptable and targeting the right customers.

KARRFASSST Car Accessories

KARRFASSST Car Accessories is a company specializing in selling and installing car accessories. The business has been operating for nearly 30 years, according to the owner, Rey Samson, who also manages inventory. KARRFASSST offers special discounts, particularly to long-time and loyal customers, and occasionally provides free services when a customer has multiple repairs. The biggest issue they encounter is customers neglecting vehicle maintenance until major problems arise; however, they manage to overcome this challenge as their mission is to help customers with their needs. The company's total monthly expenses amount to around ₱40,000, covering all operational costs.

Me and my groupmates, Angel Jean Obsioma, Ian Gariel B. Ramas, and Francen P. Sellote, roam around the city to look for businesses that we can go to and ask the business owner or staff if we can ask a few questions regarding their business, so that we can gain knowledge and in-depth understanding about how business works, and we also asked permission if it is okay to take a picture.

Here is the list of the businesses we interviewed and the key information we gathered for week 5-6.

1. Johnny's Auto Parts

Johnny's Auto Parts is a car spare parts seller that is owned by Mr. Johnny Ibala which established in the year 2004. This business is solely owned by Mr. Johnny. It located at Vamenta Boulevard, Cagayan de Oro City. They consist of seven staff and their operating hours from 8:00 A.M. to 5 P.M., Monday through Saturday.

For compliance with the legal documents, the business is DTI and BIR registered. It is a DTI registered since it is just owned by Mr. Johnny. They also have barangay clearance and a business permit, ensuring that the business is legally compliant and can legally operate.

2. Royal Glass Supply

Royal Glass Supply was established in the year 2005, owned by Sherwin Lo, and located at Cruz Taal Street Corner, Rizal St. Cagayan de Oro City. They offer glasses, aluminum, and accessories for glasses, and they do home service for installations and also caters walk-in customers. They have a total of 13 staff that will cater the customers, and operating hours from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M, Monday through Saturday. And they get their supplies from Cebu and Manila.

As for their legal documents, the business is a DTI and BIR registered. Since it is a sole proprietorship, it is a BIR registered. Additionally, the business has a business permit and a Notice to Issue Receipt/Invoice, which ensures that the business maintains proper records and gives the customers their proof of transaction. And these are the legal documents for them to be able to operate their business.

3. Tech-Converge I.T. Solutions

Tech-Converge I.T. Solutions offers IT products, repair devices, and doing home services, like the installation of CCTV. It is owned by Ms. Mae Catherine Nadal and established a physical store recently, last year, in 2023, in Room 105 De Leon Bldg. Yacapin-Velez, Cagayan de Oro City. Operating hours are from 8:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M., Monday through Saturday. 

The business has the documents to be able to operate. It is DTI registered, and since it is solely owned by Ms. Mae, it is also a BIR registered. They also have a business permit, sanitary permit, and fire safety inspection certificate, ensuring that the business premises are safe for both the employees and customers. And they also have Notice to Issue Receipt/Invoice, ensuring that the business has proper records and give the customers their proof of transaction.

4. Honyun Computer Store

Honyun Computer Store offers laptops, computer sets, and accessories, and these are surplus items. It is owned by Ms. Cathlea May G. Pontiano and established just this year, in July, and it is located at Brgy. 08 Jr. Borja, Don Apolinar Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City. They have four staff, two salespeople, and two technicians, and they operate from 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M., Monday through Saturday. And they also shared with us that their supplies are from Manila.

The business is a DTI and BIR registered. Additionally, they also have a barangay clearance, business permit, sanitary permit, and Notice to Issue Receipt/Invoice. These documents and permits are the key for Ms. Cathlea to build and operate this business.

5. NWOW Electric Bicycle

NWOW Electric Bicycle offers E-bikes. It is owned by Ms. Jessica Seda, and the one that is located at J.R. Borja, Capistrano St., Cagayan de Oro City was established in the year 2019. They have six staff, and their operating hours are from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., everyday. 

As for their business to operate and offer their products, NWOW ELectric Bicycle is a DTI registered. It also has barangay clearance, a sanitary permit, and a fire safety inspection certificate. Additionally, they have Notice to Issue Receipt/Invoice to ensure that they have proper records and give the customers their proof of transaction.

Here is the link for you to access my insights.