Miranda Pederson/Daily NewsTim Huston owns Huston’s Abbey Carpet & Floor, 1109 Lovers Lane.

Each week, the Daily News profiles a locally owned business.

Name of business: Huston’s Abbey Carpet & Floor

Location: 1109 Lovers Lane

Type of business: Residential and commercial flooring

When did it open? 1989

Owner: Tim and Nancy Huston

Number of employees: Nine

Specialties: Quality selection of carpet, area rugs and ceramic tile from entry-level products to import wools with the most up-to-date patterns and textured products.

How did the business get started? In 1976, I started working for a young and expanding carpet company, Kinnaird & Francke, wanting to grow and have my own business. Through many changes in the industry, the company was sold and the Bowling Green store closed. Not wanting to leave Bowling Green, many friends suggested that I open my own store and here we are 20 years later.

What is your background? I have worked in retail since I was 14 years old. From a hobby shop to Sears, working through college. Then I worked for a large flooring company for 15 years.

What are your biggest challenges as a business? Keeping up with changes in products and technology. Also, adjusting to the economy in the highs and lows of consumer confidence and spending.

What’s your business philosophy? Give the best value to fill each customer’s needs and have a shopping environment that is comfortable and pleasing.

What issues are affecting your industry? Overcapacity of manufacturing and raw material cost as related to the cost of oil.

What are the factors that make your business successful? Selection of products and personal service with every job. We inspect and pre-cut all products before they get to the home. Also, extended guarantees, like our 60-day satisfaction program, and our Web site, www.bowlinggreen.buyAbbey

.com.

How do you handle competition? There will always be competition. I have always tried to market in a different direction as my competitors because we are different.

What is your advice to someone thinking about opening a business? Have a good business plan. Do not try to do too many things at once – you cannot do everything for everyone. Have a great relationship with your banker, follow your plan, be yourself and stay positive.