In honor of National Small Business Week, May 4-10, here’s a look at Lynchburg Soap Co., a credit union business member.
When you’re looking for a special, one-of-a-kind gift for a special someone, there’s no better place to look than local small businesses.
Tennessee’s communities are full of unique small businesses, many of which credit unions are proud to partner with to provide business banking solutions and services. One of the partners that Ascend Federal Credit Union is proud to work with is Lynchburg Soap Company, where founders Mike and Jheri Beth Haseltine and their team have taken a passion for soap-making and turned it into a nationwide brand from Jack Daniel’s country.
Since its beginnings in 2009, Lynchburg Soap Company has had a mission to provide its customers with affordable, skin-friendly personal care products. Their goods are all-natural and made with a commitment to quality.
“Our brand is built on fostering a friendly, personal connection with our customers, making them feel welcomed and valued,” said Haseltine, founder of Lynchburg Soap Company. “As we’ve grown, we’ve remained steadfast in our dedication to handcrafted soapmaking and accessible pricing.”
Though soap bars are their core product, with approximately 50,000 sold worldwide annually, Lynchburg Soap Company has expanded in recent years to include candles, lotions, creams, and other items.
The small team of 10 employees is constantly looking at customer demand and feedback, including annual customer surveys, to identify opportunities for new products that align with their brand.
“Our recent launch of sugar scrubs and body butters is a direct result of this customer-centric approach,” said Haseltine. “We’re continually exploring potential extensions of our product line, such as hair care and other skin-sensitive products.”
With growth, there have been some challenges, but Haseltine credits a loyal customer base that’s helped them adapt to overcome those obstacles.
He’s also thankful to have a partner like Ascend, which is proud to assist small local businesses with a full suite of business accounts and services.
“Ascend Federal Credit Union has been an invaluable partner in our business growth,” Haseltine said. “Their understanding of small businesses and commitment to community development have been instrumental in our success. Ascend has provided us with essential financial tools and support, enabling us to focus on our core business operations and achieve our goals.”
In support of its mission, Ascend is committed to giving back to the communities it serves in Middle Tennessee by supporting small local businesses and partnering with organizations that are making a positive impact. Lynchburg Soap Company shares these values and is an active member of the Lynchburg Chamber of Commerce as well as the Nashville Farmers Market.
“We are immensely proud to be a Tennessee-based company with a nationwide reach,” Haseltine said. “Our goal is to bring a piece of Lynchburg into every home through our products.”
If you’re looking for the perfect gift, consider shopping at small local businesses like Lynchburg Soap Company during National Small Business Month in May. Find them online at lynchburgsoapcompany.com or in person at several Middle Tennessee locations.
Small businesses, much like credit unions, are important pieces of Tennessee’s communities. Supporting them aligns perfectly with the mission of credit unions – serving our members and the communities we call home.
Ascend is federally insured by the NCUA.
