Inspired Or Acquired Cassi Niekamp - Growing A Fencing Business 5x
Apr 23, 2025
Cassi Niekamp, owner of Bowden Fence Company in Columbus, Ohio, is a former corporate sales professional who transformed her company after acquiring it four years ago. She shares her journey of growing revenue from $700,000 to $3.3 million and the stress that comes with rapid growth. Cassi discusses the challenges of balancing profitability with expansion, the complexities of navigating debt and asset appreciation, and the importance of a strong team in transitioning to commercial markets. Her passion for fencing and dedication to improving business structure shines through as she looks towards the future.
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Cassi's Start with Bowden Fence
- Cassi found her fencing business on BuySellBiz and convinced her husband to visit it after initially deciding against buying a business.
- The business was very traditional, even operating off a fax machine, offering her a clear opportunity to modernize and grow it.
Out of the Woods Milestone
- Out of the woods means your physical assets can cover your business debt.
- Cassi’s business reached that milestone as selling assets could fully pay off the SBA loans, removing personal risk.
Timing Sale Maximizes Value
- Selling now based on 2024 earnings would not yield a big gain, given modest profitability and staffing costs.
- Waiting for 2025 projections with higher margins and revenue could significantly increase business valuation and seller proceeds.