Today we’d like to introduce you to Greg Cutler.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I grew up in Downers Grove and have lived here for most of my life. I earned a Bachelors’ Degree in marketing in 1990, and spent most of my post undergrad years as a corporate sales professional. As the Senior Business Development Manager for ProSoft Technology Group, I had won many sales contests, and was the first to earn the Presidents Club award. I was earning a six figure income, however, not really doing what I would consider to be really fulfilling as only a sales professional. So I decided it was time to chase my true passion, building.
I was decided to change industries and go big by going small, small business that is. I had always enjoyed construction and remodeling from my high school and college years so I decided I would embark on a quest for excellence and start my company. I believed that I could do it better than most companies in this field and I think we have accomplished this. Americraft, Inc. Established in 2003 and located in Downers Grove, specializes in custom home remodeling for your dream kitchen, bath and basement. Featuring unsurpassed value and quality for medium to medium-high end remodeling. Americraft believes in using old world craftsmen methods, coupled with quality and technologically advanced products, for a lifetime of memories to come. We are a full service company, from design to delivery, from conception to a beautiful new reality.
Has it been a smooth road?
Having worked in a corporate environment for all of my professional life, you get accustomed to all the perks that go along with it. One thing I did not expect was how draining mentally this would be. What I mean is, I had achieved good success in my sales career and then you are starting from scratch, it feels very empty. It helped a great deal to have my Wife, Livia, completely support what I decided to do. I knew I had to stay focused if I want ted to get my company off the ground. I also received words of wisdom from my Uncle Paul, who runs a roofing business, He told me, “keep your head down and never stop moving forward”. This resonated with me and I followed His advise to this day.
Americraft also went through a period of American history that will likely go down as one the worst recessions for the construction industry ever. Unemployment is at a record high, around 10%, however, in the construction industry it is as high as 26%. Many construction companies and home builders don’t even exist anymore! I would have to say that from the end of 2009 to the first 4 months of 2010, was the most challenging time in my life. I kept my head down and sales finally started to pick up in April of 2010, seemed like forever!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Americraft, inc. – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Americraft specializes in custom residential Kitchen, basement and bathroom remodeling. We have created a great and loyal customer base. I am honored to have so many customers trust Americraft to fulfill theirs remodeling dreams time and time again. I get real enjoyment when we finish a project and I can see how happy our customer is. It’s wonderful to hear our customers tell me how they like certain aspects of the project and how my lead carpenter helped bring their project to life. I am really proud of the quality work we provide and I could not do any of this without my dedicated staff.
I am so fortunate to have some of the most passionate people in the business. My fantastic assistant, Kathy, takes care of a number of things, everything from my cryptic notes to handling customer issues. She’s very detailed and always makes sure our customers have great experience. None of this would b possible without having the BEST carpenters in the business! They are dedicated, skilled, patient, considerate, amazing, I could go on.
We’ve also won many awards to be very proud of. Locally, we have earned a ” Business Excellence Award” from the Downers Grove Chamber. We have also won six Super Service Awards from Angies LIst. This puts Americraft in the Top 5% of contractors in the Chicago market! We continue to have an A+ rating from the BBB for 14 years now. Americraft has also been recognized by “Pulse of the City” having a 5 start rating for several year to date.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
The Chicago market will always keep you on your best game. We have some of the best tradesmen in the country, and the local unions create a high standard to meet. Americraft will always strive to do it better than most other companies and I believe we continue to achieve this.
Chicago one of the few cities were you can do almost anything at any time. The city provides world class entertainment, restaurants, attractions, sports teams, music, talent, and of course Pizza!
Contact Info:
- Address: Showroom location
1202 75th Street
Downers Grove, IL. 60515 - Website: www.americraft1.com
- Phone: 630-541-8692
- Email: greg@americraft1.com
- Instagram: https://www.houzz.com/pro/americraftinc1/americraft-inc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/americraft1/
- Twitter: https://www.yelp.com/biz/americraft-inc-downers-grove
Image Credit:
Gracie D Photography
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