Building businesses and supporting local entrepreneurs
Thompson B. Ventures Inc. was founded on the principle that successful businesses are built through strategic planning, sound financial management, and experienced guidance. We combine hands-on business ownership experience with a deep understanding of the challenges facing small businesses to provide practical, results-driven consulting services.
Following the passing of Paul Astrouski, Johnny Coker and I acquired the inventory of Journey Comics from his family, launching A Boy and His Tiger. This marked the beginning of my self-employment journey and introduced me to the world of entrepreneurship in specialty retail.
After significant business damages and Johnny's family deciding to relocate, we made the strategic decision to divide our partnership into two distinct ventures. Johnny established To The Moon and Back in Morton, Illinois, while I transitioned to an online model with Spellbound Stories, demonstrating our ability to adapt and pivot during challenging times.
When the global pandemic disrupted traditional retail, the foresight to establish an online presence proved invaluable. This same year, I assumed full ownership of Sullivan Taylor Coffee House, expanding my portfolio and deepening my experience in multi-business management during unprecedented times.
With a strengthened business foundation and clear strategic vision, I reopened Spellbound Stories as a brick-and-mortar establishment, bringing the brand full circle and proving that physical retail still thrives when combined with strong fundamentals and community engagement.
With over 16 years of proven business management experience, we bring real-world expertise to every consultation:
9 years of management before 5 years of ownership experience operating a successful coffee house, developing deep expertise in food service operations, customer experience, and retail management.
11 years of ownership and operation of a comic, gaming, and collectibles store, mastering inventory management, community building, and specialty retail strategies.
Teaching business and finance classes for Innovations Hair School, helping young stylists understand essential business fundamentals including taxes, payroll, inventory management, profit margins, and money management. Also teaching basic small business management and financial classes for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Providing consultation on financial planning and comprehensive business plan development, guiding businesses through critical growth and planning stages. Assisted Johnny Coker with business structure and strategic planning for both his comic shop and interior design business ventures.
Assisted in the creation and successful launch of Local Brew Coffee Shop in Rushville, providing end-to-end support from concept to opening day.
Successfully managed the transfer and ongoing operations of R&R Spa in Macomb, IL, demonstrating expertise in business acquisitions and smooth ownership transitions.
Extensive experience planning and managing events at Spellbound Stories LLC, Sullivan Taylor Coffee House, and The Old Bailey House in Macomb, IL.
Active management of multiple businesses and real estate investments, providing firsthand understanding of diversification and portfolio growth strategies.
We believe in actionable strategies based on real-world experience, not just theory. Every recommendation we make has been tested in actual business operations.
We understand the unique challenges and opportunities of local businesses. Our solutions are tailored to the realities of serving your community.
We're committed to building sustainable businesses that thrive for years to come, focusing on solid fundamentals and strategic growth.
Complex business challenges require diverse expertise. When developing comprehensive solutions for our clients, we collaborate with a trusted network of specialized professionals to ensure every aspect of your business receives expert attention.
Expert guidance on tax strategy, financial compliance, and accounting best practices.
Skilled attorneys for contracts, business structure, and regulatory matters.
Programmers and developers for digital solutions and technical implementation.
Mathematicians and data analysts for complex financial modeling and forecasting.
This collaborative approach ensures that our clients receive well-rounded, thoroughly vetted advice that addresses every dimension of their business needs.
Ready to take your business to the next level? We'd love to hear about your goals and explore how we can help you achieve them.
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