Stories

Start-Up Business in Wilmington Primo Hoagies

Primo

First State Community Loan Fund Finances
"Primo" Start-Up Business in Wilmington Primo Hoagies
Denai Sanchez (far right) is shown with her staff at the new Primo’s Hoagies in Wilmington.

When Denai Sanchez decided she wanted to open a Primo's Hoagies franchise in Wilmington she already had successful experience in running a franchise. Combine that with strong experience in marketing, goal setting, bookkeeping, and management of revenue and expenses, she seemed a natural to start her own business. She is now, at 25 years old, the youngest person to ever buy a Primo's Franchise.

Primo's Hoagies opened in June 2011 in the First State Plaza on the Kirkwood Highway. She worked with First State Technical Assistance Coordinator Jessica Carmona from step one to opening day to prepare for the business startup and the responsibility of a loan. She is now working with First State TA provider Lou Marconi in setting up her accounting and reconciliation systems. The business, which has created four jobs, is open seven days a week.

Of her experience with First State Community Loan Fund, Ms. Sanchez said, "They gave me the ability to achieve my dream. Not only did they provide me with financing but Jessica Carmona was with me every step of the way throughout the entire process. When you work with First State you get much more than a loan; they are always willing to lend a helping hand and I cannot thank them enough for everything they did for me!"