Company owner has entrepreneurial legacy

HUBBARD -- For more than 100 years, the Alexander name has been well-known in Hubbard. Albert Alexander represents the fifth generation of family members who have owned businesses in the area.
The family-owned businesses included a winery Alexander's grandfather owned for many years; Regina Marie's Beauty Salon, owned by his aunt; Gene's Style Center, a clothing and uniform store owned by his uncle; and Rocco's Auto Service, a series of service and gas stations operated by Alexander's father, Rocco.
Alexander has kept the family entrepeneurship going by opening A.R.A. Inc. Bathroom and Kitchen Center.
Before starting his business in 1989, Alexander spent many years in the banking industry. Shortly after graduating from Hubbard High School in 1977, Alexander attended the former Ohio Banker's School at Kent State University, where he earned a two-year degree.
Alexander started as a bank teller and worked his way up to loan officer, later becoming a trust officer at McKinley Federal Savings in Niles. Eventually, he worked as a loan collection manager and was vice president of internal auditing at a New Waterford bank.
What happened
After a series of bank buyouts and mergers, he took a six-month leave of absence to look into forming his own business.
After getting established, Alexander operated his office and showroom from his Hubbard home. After selling his residence, he moved to his current location in January 2003.
Alexander's business, initially known as A.R.A. Handyman Service, performed various small jobs and repairs. Two years later, the business expanded by becoming a remodeling company and for the last five years, A.R.A. has specialized in installing and selling kitchens and bathrooms. The company is authorized to sell the Kohler, Sterling, Moen and Armstrong product lines.
The business also does drywall, electrical, plumbing, framing and custom tile and porcelain work and sells custom vanities, as well as granite and stone tops, Alexander said. A.R.A. has its own tool trailer that goes to each job, he added.
"My [two] crews can do everything from start to finish," Alexander explained. "We don't have to rely on outside subcontracting."
His method
A.R.A. has relied heavily on its reputation and emphasis on customer service, trustworthiness and open communication, Alexander stressed.
"We need communication with no cracks. I want smooth direction with everybody on the same page," he said.
The Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Mahoning Valley awarded A.R.A. two of its Housing Awards of Excellence. In 2002, it was honored for the best basement renovation over $25,000, and it was named in 2003 as having the best kitchen design and remodeling project costing between $20,000 and $40,000.
Alexander said he attends annual kitchen and bath shows to keep up with the industry. He also praised his employees, including his 20-year-old son, Anthony, a crew supervisor, for A.R.A.'s success and growth.
"I built the business from next to nothing," Alexander said. "[Anthony] made the decision on his own and chose to be part of my business. I hope to pass the torch on to him."