If you're going to be on the web and you've got something to sell, Google Ads is the way to go.
John Hassmann
Owner
Few things say “Welcome to Kentucky” like Derby Pie, bourbon chocolates, and local hospitality. Visitors to the Bluegrass State can find all three at A Taste of Kentucky. John and Sherry Hassmann purchased the Louisville business from a friend in 1986, and ever since they’ve been selling hand-made local crafts, souvenirs, and tasty treats that showcase the best of Kentucky. “People in Kentucky are extremely creative. There’s a lot of history here and a lot of talent,” John says. “We get to share a piece of our community with the whole country.” A Taste of Kentucky launched its first e-commerce website 20 years ago, and today 40 percent of the company’s sales happen online, with shipments to over 20,000 customers each year. To help connect even more shoppers with their Kentucky treasures, the Hassmanns use tools like Google Ads.
When local companies want to share their pride in being a Kentucky business with clients, they find A Taste of Kentucky via Google Ads–and the same goes for tourists looking to take home something unique. “We decided to try Google Ads, and we got our first investment back in 90 days.” John says. But the investment they’re most proud of is the one they’ve made in their employees. “It means a great deal to my wife and me, keeping jobs in our community. These people are our responsibility, “John says. “A rising tide lifts all boats, and as our online business grows, so does our ability to provide for them.” The company employs 13 people full time, with that number swelling up to 30 during the peak seasons of Christmas and the Kentucky Derby. Web sales grew 45 percent in one year, and John and Sherry are putting that money right back into expanded benefits for their employees. “That’s just the way we do things here in Kentucky,” John says. And that’s the true meaning of local hospitality.