Meet Anthony Estrada | Owner of ANT Sales Company, amigo to all :)

We had the good fortune of connecting with Anthony Estrada and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anthony, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I remained loyal to the company I worked with for 11 years. I couldn’t bear the thought of working for the competition, but I was ready to move on. I wanted to leverage my skills, knowledge, and industry experience to my advantage, so I began the hunt for a new opportunity

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

There’s a lot to unpack in this statement. To begin, many people have asked me about my profession, and it’s not always easily understood. We operate as a manufacturer’s rep firm, essentially functioning as a contracted sales company. Our responsibilities are extensive, encompassing various tasks, but our core role involves increasing market share for manufacturers without a direct sales force in the markets we represent. This business model is prevalent across numerous industries including plumbing, electrical, pharmaceuticals, food, technology, and industrial sectors.

Embarking on this business venture was far from easy; there were numerous moments throughout my career when I wished I had remained in my previous position. Sharing this sentiment is difficult, as I am incredibly proud of where I stand today and what I have achieved. I initiated a business that encountered multiple setbacks, one that didn’t always appear financially viable from year to year. The challenges of the initial decade would have led most rational individuals to walk away. However, today I lead an exceptional team, oversee a thriving business, occupy an impressive facility, and proudly commemorate our 15th year in operation.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I had the fortune of hosting my very first best friend this summer, a friendship that dates back to 8th grade. This marked his inaugural visit to Northern Colorado, and together we spent days exploring my cherished locales. A visit to DP Dough in downtown Fort Collins is an absolute must for anyone venturing into the city. If you’ve yet to experience DP Dough, you’re in for a treat – and if you’re not a fan, it simply means you’ve never indulged. I challenge you to unearth a calzone that surpasses theirs, but I’ll save you some time: you won’t!

After savoring our fill at DP Dough, we embarked on a downtown tour, making our way to some of my beloved bars. We kicked things off at the Trail Head – a logical starting point, considering the welcoming ambiance it exudes. It’s difficult to imagine a more comforting locale for a relaxed drink. Amidst our imbibing and dining adventures, we ventured to Horse Tooth Reservoir – a truly awe-inspiring sight. What more could one ask for? The presence of water, sunshine, shaded spots, wildlife, and an atmosphere alive with joyous souls.

Naturally, we couldn’t bypass a visit to my all-time favorite brewery, Odell’s! My loyalty to Odell’s has endured since my move to Fort Collins in 1999. The combination of positive vibes and exceptional brews is truly unparalleled. Of course, no Northern Colorado brewery tour would be complete without a pilgrimage to the remarkable New Belgium Brewery!

Armando and I had the joy of entertaining my two delightful daughters, leading us to discover Comet Chicken for the first time – an experience that proved to be fantastic! And when you’re exploring downtown with your little ones, a visit to Walrus Ice Cream and Kilwins candy shop becomes a non-negotiable – so, naturally, we indulged. On the parenting scale, I believe my standing was solidified as “best dad ever” solely based on that particular decision.

Our adventure even extended to Red Rocks Amphitheater, where we had the privilege of witnessing a legendary jam band in action. It feels as though we truly experienced it all.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Yes, there are several people that come to mind when it comes to my business. Timmy Brister, my whimsical pal, who organically encourages me to love life, live freely, have fun, and embrace creativity. Another shout-out to consider is for my work pal, Jaimie Coons. She is a superstar in our industry who has reinvigorated my passion for this business and has complemented our company beyond my imagination. Of course this shout out would not be complete without the mention of my incredible wife. None of this would have been possible without her unwavering love and support. Beth not only encouraged me to chase my dreams but stood by me during a journey that tested our financial stability and promised significant lifestyle changes. Her light shone in my darkest moments, she embraced me when I needed it most, and, above all, she believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. She is truly extraordinary.

Website: https://www.antsalesco.com/

Instagram: @antsalescompany

Linkedin: @antsalescompany