Online Bovine Business Going Strong

Online Bovine Business Going Strong DAIRY EQUIPMENT & IDEAS Ron Frey admits he had his doubts about the feasibility of an “everything cow” website when he created Simply Bovine back in 2000 starting with 40 products Today he sells 325 cow-themed products and business is good “There’s lots more cow lovers out there than I thought ” laughs the Dodgeville Wis business owner who commutes two blocks from his home-based office to his warehouse filled with cow goodies His main customers are people looking for party supplies with a cow theme That includes cow prints on balloons plates napkins and cups for everything from kids’ birthday parties to corporate bashes Simply Bovine is also a major provider of items for Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A’s promotions that use cows holding signs that say “Eat Mor Chickin ” Another big market is people who decorate rooms in their homes with a cow theme including everything from cow doormats to wine holders California ranks first in the number of orders It’s challenging to find new items Frey says He attends gift shows in major cities and uses the internet to search for U S and overseas markets U S -made selections include aprons potholders boxer shorts tote bags and cloth napkins Initially he buys a few items to see how well they sell “I’m always amazed at the popularity of cow-themed candy ” he says Mini cow pies and cow tails cost 40 cents Moo Chews and Udderfingers are also popular at $2 99 He was also surprised that the Achy Breaky singing cow $22 50 sold well Another toy cow Bessie Mae $29 50 sings in Spanish Frey notes that Simply Bovine is a good example of a business that likely wouldn’t succeed if it were in a store But on the internet it’s open to anyone anywhere in the world All items ship through the post office or UPS for a $7 95 shipping fee in the U S Contact: FARM SHOW Followup Simply Bovine LLC 112 N Iowa St Ste B Dodgeville Wis 53533 ph 888 223-1987; www simplybovine com

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