First Group Insurance
Business of the Month – November 2013
RIO LIMA TACK & FEED
Lou Lima, owner of Rio Lima Tack and Feed and L&L Ranch, is living the American dream. Lou was born in Brazil and raised on his family’s ranch in Rio de Janerio. He developed a love for animals that helped plot the course for the rest of his life. Lou made a decision to come to America in 1999 to be with his mother. He started out in Miami, FL and ended up in Ohio a couple of years later.
Lou’s passion for animals did not get left behind in Brazil. When he first moved to the New Carlisle area, he searched, but could not find a reputable tack and feed store. He realized how much this area needed a store like this, and decided to open one himself. In 2003, Rio Lima Tack and Feed was born. The goal was to have a knowledgeable staff that could provide excellent customer service – something that can’t be found at a big box store. Lou was married in 2012 and his wife, Elizabeth, became a part of the business. She explains more about the store, “Rio Lima is a diverse animal supply store. We offer feed and supplies for a broad spectrum including exotics, domestic house pets (cats, dogs, hamsters, etc.) livestock & equine. We offer deliveries, bulk discounts, and U-Haul rentals. Rio Lima is also a Wrangler supplier along with house wares, blingy belts, and purses.”
With a fondness for animals and a service oriented business plan, Rio Lima Tack and Feed is growing. In June of 2012 Lou opened a second location in Tipp City, OH. He now has four employees at the New Carlisle location and three employees at the Tipp City location. In the coming months, U-Haul will be available at both locations. When asked what the best part about owning Rio Lima is, Lou replied, “I enjoy working with the customers and fulfilling their needs.”
Not only does Lou own two tack and feed stores, but in 2013 he and his wife established L&L Ranch. L&L Ranch offers horse boarding, training, and riding lessons along with cattle sorting & cutting, and an authentic western living experience. The ranch is located in New Carlisle, OH and offers activities and events for every skill level. This is a great place to check out if you and your family are looking for something new and exciting to do together.
On top of running Rio Lima Tack & Feed and L&L Ranch, Lou & Elizabeth have four kids to keep them busy. It is clear that the children take after their parents with a love for animals and the western lifestyle. Seeing a small local business thrive and expand is encouraging to the community, and inspiring to everyone else who is eager to start their own American dream.
First Group Insurance would like to congratulate Rio Lima Tack & Feed for being the Business of the Month.
If you are interested in finding out more about Rio Lima Tack & Feed and L&L Ranch please visit: Rio Lima's Website and L&L Ranch Facebook
Written by: Tasha Thomas
First Group Insurance