Interview with Jeremy Stout, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: As a young child, my father taught my brothers and I how to live simply and sustainably. He passed away early in my life and I have always kept his teachings in my daily life. When I first learned to garden with hydroponic techniques, I was amazed with the results. As I got older, I wanted to learn more about hydroponics, but found very limited places around Colorado that carried any supplies needed. This sparked my entrepreneur spirit and I decided it would be great to help others learn and perfect their Hydroponic and organic gardening. I really saw an empty space in Colorado’s hydroponic and organic garden supply chain and I wanted to fill it.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: What distinguishes The Big Tomato from others is our combination of product availability, best price, product knowledge and customer service. We are not a chain store and that gives us the ability to know our customers individually and give them the specific attention that they deserve.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: Our customers are the best. I get to interact with hundreds of different people everyday that love to grow. Over the years, I have gotten to know our customers and watch them perfect their craft. It is very fulfilling to be able to share knowledge and experience knowing that it can make a difference for someone that wants to learn.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Our biggest challenge is always making sure that our customers get the very best and up-to-date product information. This industry has exploded over the past few years and with that comes a barrage of new products (some very great and many not-so-great). Our staff prides itself on the ability to ensure our customers that they are getting the very best products and skipping all the fluff.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: The Big Tomato was established in 2000 and is owned and operated by Colorado natives that know Colorado’s “growing industry.”
Profile
Business: The Big Tomato
Address: 14440 E. Sixth Ave.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday
Founded: 2000
Contact: 303-364-4769, ,
Employees: 8
