#second5business

[achie-blog]

Weekly Business Interview 👩‍💼👨‍💼

Hello everyone, I'm back with more insights and information about various companies and businesses. On September 7 and 19, 2024, my groupmates—Jessa, Ian, Francen—and I had the opportunity to interview another five different businesses: GREEN & SWEETS, QUADRO OCHO INC, FMN AGRICULTURAL SUPPLY INC., COLOR MIX PAINT CENTER and JAY-Q GRAINS RICE TRADING. During these interviews, we gathered valuable insights into their operations and the stories behind how each business was established.

GREEN & SWEETS

Green and Sweets, owned by Ms. Regina Jandoc, is located at Door 4, FLC Building, Marigold Street, Carmen. The business was established in 2021 while she was still a student. Although she doesn't have any formal business partners, she considers her family's business as a key support system. The business initially started online, using Instagram as its platform. During the pandemic, her father began selling hydroponically grown lettuce. She felt that selling just lettuce was too limited, so she decided to diversify, combining her love for cooking and baking. This passion inspired her to offer healthy food options like salads, sandwiches, and kani rolls. Additionally, she incorporated cookies into the menu, a product she began selling while she was in senior high school. This blend of healthy food and sweets is how Green and Sweets came to be. All the recipes are her own creations, inspired by her love for watching cooking shows and love to cook in the kitchen.

While she initially baked the cookies herself, the growing demands of the business led her to pass this responsibility to her sister, who has since turned it into a business of her own. Green and Sweets targets health-conscious consumers, especially those who are picky eaters or are transitioning into healthier lifestyles. The business aligns with the trend of people seeking more nutritious food options.Green and Sweets now has two physical branches: one in Carmen, which opened in May 2023, and another in Barra, established this year at her mother's request to have a business. The business employs five staff members across both branches, with employees often rotating between the two locations. Additionally, they offer catering services for events. When establishing the physical stores, her first step was securing a location, as it was necessary for acquiring a business permit. She then processed the necessary documents, including registration with DTI, securing a business permit, and complying with BIR requirements. She had already obtained her DTI registration during the online phase of her business. For documentation and bookkeeping, she relies on the help of a bookkeeper, as her family also owns another business aside from Green and Sweets.

CUADRO OCHO INCORPORATED

We had the opportunity to interview Ms. Marichu Villanueva, the manager of the Cuadro Ocho Inc. branch in Carmen. She shared that the business was established on August 8, 1988. Located at Max Y. Suniel Street, Corner Ipil Street in Cagayan de Oro, this branch is one of 11, with the main branch based in Cebu City. The business operates as a corporation, employing 10 staff at the Carmen branch and nearly 300 across all locations. Originally founded by a group of business-minded friends in Iligan City, the company started by selling lumber before expanding into retail and wholesale hardware and construction materials.

Ms. Villanueva explained that the process of setting up the business starts with securing first the necessary documents. Since it is a corporation, they must be registered with the SEC. Next, BIR registration is essential for issuing official receipts, filing taxes, and qualifying for tax credits or deductions. Additionally, since it is a corporation they must file a General Information Sheet (GIS) to comply with legal transparency requirements. Finally, the Articles of Incorporation, which detail key information like the company’s name and objectives, must be submitted also, along with the Bylaws, which define the internal rules for corporate operations such as meetings and decision-making. She also emphasized the importance of selecting a location for the physical store, noting that it would be beneficial to have foot traffic. Additionally, having a parking lot would be ideal, as vehicles are needed to transport materials.

FMN AGRICULTURAL SUPPLY INC

FMN Agricultural Supply Inc. is a business owned by Ms. Nunez F. Concepcion, established on May 18, 2006, and located on V. Neri St., Cagayan de Oro City. Mrs. Guanita H. Tato, the branch manager, was the one we interviewed and provided information. The business is selling feeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. It operates 11 branches in total, with the main branch located on Osmeña Extension, Cagayan de Oro City, which serves as the primary supplier for the other branches. Their warehouse is situated in Baloy.

Mrs. Tato explained that, for the business to operate, they had to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), as well as obtain a business permit. They also secured a Fire Safety Inspection Certificate, a Sanitary Permit, a Certificate of Registration, and a License to Operate. Additionally, they have official receipts and invoices and are required to attend training programs such as those offered by the Red Cross and Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH).

She also mentioned that different permits are required for feeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. For fertilizers and pesticides, they need to obtain a license from the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA), which ensures their products meet the safety and quality standards set by the government. While most documents are renewed annually, the FPA license must be renewed every three years.

COLOR MIX PAINT CENTER

Color Mix Paint Center, owned by Mrs. Teresita Cabutad, was established in 2012 and located on Castro Street in Cagayan de Oro City. This small business specializes in selling a variety of paints, catering to both residential and commercial customers. Operating with a dedicated team of just two staff members, including Mrs. Cabutad. Open from 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Saturday.

To operate her business legally and efficiently, Mrs. Cabutad has secured several essential documents. She obtained a registration from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which legitimizes her business and protects its name. Additionally, she registered with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to ensure compliance with tax regulations. A sanitary permit is also in place, confirming that the business meets health and safety standards. Furthermore, a barangay clearance is maintained, demonstrating that the business is recognized by the local community, and a business permit is held to operate within the city legally. Together, these documents provide a solid foundation for her business operations and help build trust with her customers.

JAY-Q GRAINS RICE TRADING

Jay-Q Grains Rice Trading, owned by Mr. Garciano Baldelamar, is located on Castro Street, Cagayan de Oro City. The business, which operates with just two staff members, specializes in selling rice both in retail and wholesale. During our interview with Ms. Analya Tagaro, an all around staff member, she shared information about the pricing, with a half sack of rice costing either ₱1,140 or ₱1,340, depending on the brand. The store operates from 8 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Sunday.

Ms. Tagaro also discussed the essential documents the business has secured to operate smoothly. Jay-Q Grains Rice Trading is registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). The business holds a business permit and a barangay clearance, ensuring compliance with local laws. Additionally, they maintain official invoice receipts and a certificate of registration, including an official receipt from Red Cross Training. Ms. Tagaro emphasized that their documents are complete and up-to-date, which has helped them avoid penalties. She also highlighted the importance of keeping these documents visible in the store, as this ensures transparency and compliance with regulations.

❤️