Two empty Adirondack chairs in front of a twilight fireworks display
Two empty Adirondack chairs in front of a twilight fireworks display

Three shops, one vision

Kevin and Amanda Watson appreciate personal, supportive banking relationship with First Financial Bank

Overview

Kevin Watson has been in the fireworks industry in Indiana for over 27 years, building a portfolio that includes multiple locations and business partners. Last year he and his wife Amanda set their sights on expanding their fireworks business. The co-owners made the decision to purchase Piddles Trading Post and The Country Store in Monticello, IN. This business has a trio of stores at one location. The fireworks shop is joined by The Country Store — a classic market with food, fudge, art, and more — and Piddles Trading Post, a thoughtfully curated women’s boutique with clothing, gifts, and décor. Each of these three shops proudly welcomes Monticello locals and the many tourists who visit each summer for a lakeside escape. The Watsons saw the potential of such varied offerings for sales to tourists and locals and decided to dive in.

Banking with First Financial Bank

When it was time to choose a banking team, Kevin turned to his local network. Kevin has historically banked with a large national bank but knew that for this project he wanted to work with a bank that offered a more personal approach. A business partner at Kevin’s other fireworks store uses First Financial Bank for a variety of needs, so Kevin reached out to his local First Financial branch and connected with Business Banking Specialist Harry Langbehn. After that initial conversation, Kevin knew he’d found the team he wanted by his side. “When I got linked up with Harry, he was just wonderful,” Kevin explains. “I just knew that First Financial was the personable bank I was looking for.” The Watsons started by opening a business bank account, then decided to work with First Financial through the SBA loan process.

This was no simple task. Beyond the usual complexity of an SBA loan, this transaction also included the purchase of three buildings and the insurance requirements for fireworks stores. Working with Harry and SBA Specialist Virgil Underwood, the Watsons knew they were in good hands. Along the way, the First Financial team managed complexity by closely coordinating with the Watsons, the seller, realtors, accountants, and insurance agents.

This loan was a very long process, and the FFB team was patient and helpful. When things started to get delayed, they kept everything rolling.
– Kevin Watson, co-owner

Vision for the future

The Watsons have a clear vision for growth that serves their community. All three businesses have historically closed from January-March when tourism slows. Kevin’s goal for their first year of ownership is to learn what happens during the off-season and what locals might need or want during the fall and winter months. One growth idea is a coffee shop and bakery — the perfect pick-me-up before a summer lake trip and a cozy winter gathering place for locals in the off-season. As Piddles Trading Post, The Country Store, and the fireworks store continue to evolve, First Financial Bank is proud to be on the Watsons’ team for everything from day-to-day banking to funding business growth and supporting future goals.