“The Inquisit process really nailed the areas of our business we needed to improve.”

Pondi’s Restaurant

Services Used: INQUISIT Business Assessment, Cash Flow / Sales Projection Model, Loan Assistance, Process Optimization, CEO training program

Established in 1916, Pondi’s Restaurant began in Lisbon, Ohio when John Pondi would invite his co-workers into their home to enjoy his wife, Annie’s cooking. As word spread of how delicious Annie’s food was, the group of hungry workers became large enough to justify converting the first floor of their house into a restaurant. Current owners, Matt and Jessica Borza, have owned Pondi’s since 1998, and continue to honor the history and legacy of the “century” restaurant.

Matt and Jessica contacted the SBDC at YSU to assist with their planned renovation and expansion. A detailed cash flow and sales projection model was created by the SBDC using historical financials. In-depth discussions were held utilizing that model to play through a variety of scenarios, and to determine their effects on future profitability. In doing so, it became apparent there were a number of cost saving / revenue enhancing measures that could be taken. The clients were able to make the decision to move forward with their plans, with the realization they would also take a hard look at costs.

The SBDC then assisted the client in writing a viable loan proposal to accompany the cash flow forecast for the bank. In addition, the client took the INQUISIT Business Assessment, developed by the SBDC, to help them understand areas of their business that needed improvement. Results from the assessment indicated they lacked critical elements in marketing and processes that were necessary for their growth plan to be successful. Short- and long-term goals were then developed to assist the clients in the identified areas. Clients also participated in the CEO training program to learn more about ways to improve her business performance in all areas.
Clients continue to work on the goals developed from the INQUISIT Business Assessment.

With a great deal of hard work and a well-developed roadmap for success, the clients’ loan application was approved. After all the renovations and expansion of the kitchen and dining room, and with the addition of the new “Pondi’s Market”, the project was completed and opened with a ribbon cutting ceremony!