Questions and Answers with Local Business Owner Kara Sotolotto of LiftTruck Parts & Service.
1. What is your name? What is the name of your business?
Kara Sotolotto/ LiftTruck Parts & Service
2. What inspired/encouraged you to start your business?
The business was actually started by my father, Mario, back in 1987, a year after I was born. He must have known I would be expensive! He worked in parts at another forklift company (actually for my mother's father) and decided he would like to start his own.
3. What do you love about your work?
So many things. I love the people I work with, they're like family. A lot of them have been working here since the company opened, and several of them followed my father from his previous job. I also love the different types of customers we have- from clothing stores, to small breweries, to lobster and fisherman. It's so interesting how many people need forklifts, and I get to deal with maintenance workers all the way up to executives. Every day I learn something new from one end or the other!
4. What advice do you have for others wanting to start a business?
Since I was born into this industry, what I would say is that it's a full time commitment. Just because you're a business owner doesn't mean less work! I know my father spent countless hours away from our family, on trips, networking, door to door sales etc. He has made SO MANY sacrifices. I would also say to make sure you know how to do every job/aspect of your business. No one wants to take orders from someone who doesn't know what they are talking about. You can't expect people to want to go above and beyond for you if you don't fully understand what they do day to day, and your business is only as good as your unhappiest employee!
5. What do you do to take care of yourself and how do you make time to do it?
I always take time out at the end of my days to read a few chapters of a book, I love to read and it helps me unwind. Not always easy to take time out when you work with family. But if there are no immediate emergencies I put my phone on silent and read before bed. I also love to get facials from Beauty Batlles Lounge when I have time! I try to do this every month but it doesnt always pan out that way!
6. What can we do to support you in the community?
Just get our name out there! People don't realize how many companies use or need pallet jacks and forklifts! We provide rentals, service, parts, forklift training, and of course sales. Find us on Facebook!
7. Favorite spot to go around town?
Oh that's tricky. In West Springfield I love Calabrese Market and the Celery Stalk. In Wilbraham (Where I grew up) Pane Dolcetti is my favorite. I also absolutely love IYA in South Hadley. Can you tell I like food?
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