Name of business: JoJo’s Jerky
Address: 3310 S. Jones Blvd., Suite F2, Las Vegas
Email: [email protected]
Website: JojosJerky.com
Hours of operation: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily
Owned by: Hans and Anya Hippert
In business since: 2012
Describe your business.
We make premium beef and turkey jerky, spice rubs and marinades using all-natural ingredients, premium cuts of grass-fed beef and all-natural turkey breast. We use top sirloin and hand trim all of our products, so you get the leanest, most tender jerky available without nitrates, corn syrup, MSG or sulfates.
You make all of the jerky yourself. Why not hire a meat processor?
Because we truly do care. We don’t want to be like every other jerky company out there. Our ingredients are the best we can find, local when available and fresh.
I will never sell customers or myself short on my standards. I am committed to making the best. Sometimes it’s tough to swallow as a small company, but if I don’t like it, it doesn’t get sold.
Who are your customers?
Everyone. Facebook says mostly 25- to 44-year-old women, but I don’t believe it. We make products that everyone can appreciate, including beef jerky, extra-lean turkey jerky, gluten-free jerky and cactus jerky for our vegan friends. We also make our own Vegas Valley Ranch dressing/rub and other spice rubs that add flavor to everything from steak to tofu.
You are opening a second store downtown in Container Park. Why did you choose that location?
We were offered a tremendous opportunity with Container Park, and it is exciting to see it grow from an idea into what it is today.
We have big plans for our store. It will be interactive and fun. We will sample all of our products and plan to bring a few new ideas to the table.
What makes your business unique?
Our creativity and our commitment to quality and customers. We care and listen. Some of the most inspiring ideas come from our customers. That is how cactus jerky was born.
The ingredient line in every bag of rub says made with “lots of love.” It’s true. I really love what I do, and I think it shows.
What is your business philosophy?
Fresh, quality ingredients are a staple. Never settle for OK or good enough. Always do our best.
What’s the most important part of your job?
Never losing focus on what we are trying to accomplish. Leading by example and leading with the drive that no one else can match.
I don’t give up. I have too many people counting on me, and it’s not in my character. If someone says, “No,” I keep going until someone says, “Yes.”
What is the hardest part about doing business in Las Vegas?
Getting past the initial barrier. I love Las Vegas, but like my mom would say, it can make you hard. Some people don’t want to acknowledge you. They want to ignore you and keep walking by.
We just want to give you a free sample, talk to you for a bit and hopefully sell you a great product you probably never would have tried otherwise.
I read something recently that I thought was great. I saw it on the Cosmopolitan billboard. It said: “When life offers you free samples, take them.”
What is the best part about doing business in Las Vegas?
I love Vegas. I have been here for almost 20 years, and I am still in awe of it. Our highway parallels the most amazing stretch of road in the country. People come here to have a good time. I love being a part of that.
What obstacles has your business overcome?
It has been a struggle since the day we started. But the biggest obstacle would be giving up. I truly believe in what we are doing, and I feel that we are going to accomplish all of our goals.
What have you learned from the recession?
This town is tough. Every day, you see awesome cars, lights and big houses. But don’t live above your means.
If your friend has a Caddy or Benz, good for him or her. Don’t be jealous. Work hard for your goals, and do what makes you happy. Possessions don’t make you happy.
I have a supportive wife and two happy, healthy kids, and I love what I do. That is what brings me joy.