Woodpreneur Network Podcast host Steve Larosiliere recently interviewed Elvin Hurst Sr.— founder of Kountry Kraft—about how he built a kitchen cabinet business that’s still thriving 65 years later. Follow along as Elvin takes you through his journey and learn the five tips for success he shares with Woodpreneur Network Podcast.

Helen Hurst’s Gift of a Sears Craftsman Saw

Kountry Kraft’s story begins in 1958 with Helen Hurst’s gift of a Sears Craftsman Saw to her husband. This gift ignited a passion for woodworking in Elvin, who used the saw to begin making cabinets for family and friends. As word spread and demand grew, Elvin and Helen realized they could transform what had started as a hobby into a real business. With the help of his parents, the couple founded Kountry Kraft.

A Kitchen Company

Elvin considers his first big business milestone as gaining name recognition for Kountry Kraft and having it become known as a kitchen company. From the very start, Kountry Kraft touted quality work, on time delivery, and fair prices. With each kitchen sold, Kountry Kraft became known for these core values.  

Expanding to 45 Kitchen Dealers

As the business grew and production capabilities increased, Kountry Kraft began partnering with kitchen dealers that would use the cabinets in their own designs. This network now includes 45 kitchen dealers that span from Maine to Florida and are known for producing award-winning designs that feature Kountry Kraft cabinetry. 

Five Tips for Success

When asked what advice he would give for others to create a successful and long-lived business, Elvin listed the following five tips for success:

1. Have vision and ambition.
2. Be willing to take the hard times with the good times.
3. Be committed.
4. Put your customers and employees first. Put yourself last.
5. Be willing to give others an opportunity.

About Woodpreneur Network Podcast

Woodpreneur Network Podcast seeks to empower wood businesses by providing insights, strategies, and techniques to scale sustainably and deliver great products. Watch Elvin’s full interview on episode “65 Years of Cabinet Making Excellence” of the Woodpreneur Network Podcast and check out other episodes on the Woodpreneur Network.