Fiscal fitness.

• Position: SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

BACKGROUND

In 2010, Gordon Hansen began looking into different franchises, trying to find the best fit for his business interests. He found that the Papa John's franchise had opportunities in Utah and larger incentives compared to other franchises. As is the case for most entrepreneurs, Hansen was searching for a financial institution that would work closely with him to determine the right solutions to fit his specific business needs, and he soon found that financial partner in Mountain America Credit Union.

After experiencing some success, Hansen expanded his franchise and now owns and operates four Papa John's locations--Tooele, Payson, Park City and Springville. He oversees the day-to-day operations for each of his stores, along with managing the finances of each one.

"I run a small business, not a big corporate business, so I depend on a financial institution to help me align with services geared towards my business requirements," says Hansen. "I needed a dependable financial partner that was easy to work with so that I didn't have to jump through hoops."

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THE SITUATION

Hansen had banked with a local financial institution since he was a child so when it came time to open his business, he initially stayed loyal to what he knew. At first, he noticed a manageable amount of fees associated with his business account, but as his business began to grow, he noticed that his fees were also increasing. "I gave them a few chances, and either they didn't call me back or they told me they didn't have any products that would fit my business needs," notes Hansen.

Hansen became frustrated and began shopping around for another financial institution that would customize its services for his business. He also wanted to work with a responsive, local financial partner so that he could sit down and discuss his options in person.

"What initially got my attention were Mountain America's locations, because they were very close to my stores. Two were literally within walking distance from my businesses," says Hansen. "I stopped into one branch and spoke with the manager. I could tell immediately they knew what they were doing and could help me."

THE SOLUTION

Hansen found that with Mountain America's business accounts, he was not only able to keep the fees at a manageable level, but he was able to earn interest on the money in his accounts. The superior level of service offered at each branch has also impressed him. "The staff at every...