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July 21, 2010

On the Job: Shaved ice stand owner keeps it cool

Ben Montgomery CNHI

GARDENDALE — Merrill Hayden, of Pleasant Grove, said his business hasn’t been hurt by the heat. As a matter of fact, it’s helped.

Hayden has owned the Gardendale Sno Shack on Main Street, and works at it six days a week to keep hot customers cooled off with his frozen treats.

“Business has been good this summer, better than last year,” said Hayden. “The recession hasn’t hurt me.”

Hayden may be doing well, but he said it only takes an overcast sky to ruin his day.

“It’s a very weather-oriented business,” he said. “Cold weather or rain will hurt your business, and I shut down completely in the winter.”

Hayden bought the stand after some friends had success in the business. He had moved to Florida from the Birmingham area when he retired, but decided to move back and start a business with his wife.

“You gotta have something profitable and something you enjoy,” he said.

So how are the frozen treats created? “We always start with a common base, called ‘simple syrup,’” said Hayden. “Then you add ‘x’ amount of flavor, and you have all the kinds of flavors you want.” Hayden has some unorthodox flavors at his stand, such as wedding cake and homemade ice cream.

Hayden said customer service is an important part of his job, and much of his business is repeat customers.

“I’m not trying to get people’s money and get them away from the window,” said Hayden. “Some people come here everyday, and you become real friends with them.”

Hayden said he thinks families coming to his stand for a low-cost treat is one of the reasons for his success in troubled economic times.

“You have to come across with customer service,” he said. “I’m a people person, and you have to be that to be successful.”

The Gardendale Sno Shack is open every day except Sundays.

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