Business Member Spotlight: Spencer Road Storage

This year, my goal is to support as many small businesses as I can. Whether that means buying a clothing item from a national brand from a local boutique, getting financial advice from the advisers at my credit union or buying produce from my neighborhood farmer’s market, I want to keep my cash in the community. How do you “C.U.” supporting local businesses this year?

Our economy thrives on small business. According to the Small Business Association (SBA), small businesses make up 99.7% of U.S. employer firms, 64% of new private sector jobs, nearly half of private sector employment, and 43% of private sector payroll firms (SBA.gov). With tools like Kickstarter and social media, today’s sharing economy makes it easier than ever to start a business.

Okay, okay. I’ll stop with the small business start-up chat and get right to my highlight of the day: one of our favorite business members, Spencer Road Storage. Located in St. Peters, MO, business owner Michelle Otto has held her business account with American Eagle Credit Union for the past year and a half, initially drawn in by Paul Sheahan, our Vice President of Business Lending, and she couldn't be more satisfied with her service.

“Working with American Eagle has definitely helped Spencer Road Storage. I get quick and efficient responses and have direct accessibility to the business team. It’s nice not going through a corporate phone tree every time I have a question. Overall, customer service is just better,” said Otto.

Nationally, credit unions rank at the top of consumer satisfaction surveys.  In 2014, credit unions averaged a score of 85 in customer satisfaction, with small banks coming in second with a score of 83. Large banks, however, averaged quite lower with 73. Speed of service and accessibility were two key components in consumer scores.

Another key point from Michelle? The notion of people, not profits. Simply put, credit unions and banks are just different. “American Eagle is more personable, offers better service and more flexibility than a larger bank,” she said.

So, if you’re looking for an excellent storage unit in St. Charles, St. Peters or O’Fallon, MO, be sure to think about Spencer Road Storage. Remember that when you buy locally, your money stays in the community.

What are some of your favorite local businesses? Tell us below-we love learning about new local favorites!