SBDC @ University of New Mexico – West
The Vanilla Bean Frozen Custard & Treatery is just the right spot to satisfy your sweet tooth with a wide array of items including frozen custard, homemade fudge, locally-made gourmet chocolates, flavored popcorn and espresso beverages – among its many offerings. The store is located at 1908 Wellspring Avenue, Suite 108 across from the Rust Medical Center on Unser Boulevard in Rio Rancho. The Vanilla Bean is owned and operated by Ken and Cheryl Baker, local Rio Rancho residents, and the Sandoval County SBDC is proud to present them as our State Star.
The Vanilla Bean is the creation of Cheryl and she has been hands on all aspects of the business. There is nothing like it in Rio Rancho and it is a true product of the Bakers’ imagination and determination. The many excellent reviews from customers are a testament to the high quality of products and service that the Vanilla Bean is getting known for.
Ms. Baker came to the Sandoval County SBDC initially looking to start a franchise organization. After conducting research and learning more about business, she decided that the Vanilla Bean would fill a void in the community by offering a great place where people could go in a family-friendly atmosphere to celebrate everyday events or just grab a special treat when you wanted something a little different from the ordinary sweets.
Cheryl, who has a successful career in the insurance industry, was able to put a solid business plan together using the basic tools provided by Ted Trujillo, Director of the Sandoval County SBDC. She was able to secure an SBA loan and has been able to create 8 jobs as a result of her and Ken’s efforts. “Ted was wonderful. He gave me a good overview of how a business plan worked and on setting goals.”
The Vanilla Bean Frozen Custard & Treatery shop has partnered with MVD Express and plans to test a westside marketing campaign that will reward newly permitted drivers with a free goodie plus reinforce safe driving habits. This is but one example of the community commitment that the Bakers have made as they grow the Vanilla Bean Frozen Custard concept and product offerings for their friends and neighbors in Rio Rancho and the Westside of Albuquerque.