Conklin Company, Inc., established in 1920, is a diversified manufacturer and distributor offering a wide range of products across various industries. Their offerings include agricultural adjuvants, roofing systems, animal health products, nutritional supplements, professional cleaners, and vehicle maintenance products. Operating through a network of independent business owners (IBOs), Conklin provides opportunities for individuals to distribute their products and build their own businesses.
Pros of Becoming a Conklin Independent Business Owner:
- Diverse Product Line: Conklin's extensive range of products allows IBOs to cater to multiple markets, potentially increasing sales opportunities.
- Established Company: With over a century in business, Conklin offers a sense of stability and a proven track record.
- Supportive Community: Some IBOs have reported a positive, family-like atmosphere among colleagues. One former employee noted, "I loved my co-workers. This is such a relaxed and loving place."
Cons of Becoming a Conklin Independent Business Owner:
- Management Concerns: Several reviews highlight issues with upper management, including micromanagement and resistance to new ideas. An anonymous employee shared, "Upper management run things like a dictatorship, all decisions go through them no matter how trivial."
- Limited Advancement Opportunities: Some employees have expressed frustration over the lack of career growth and salary increases. A review stated, "No raises for anyone, even those that have been here 5+ years."
- Cultural Discrepancies: There are reports of a disconnect between the company's public affiliations and internal culture. One former employee mentioned, "The owners are huge contributors to the National Day of Prayer and James Dobson but this is far from a Christian environment."
Employee Feedback:
Employee reviews present a mixed picture of working at Conklin. On Glassdoor, the company holds an average rating of 2.3 out of 5 stars, based on 30 reviews, indicating room for improvement in employee satisfaction.
Conversely, on Birdeye, Conklin has a higher rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 18 reviews, suggesting a more positive perception among some reviewers.
Conclusion:
Becoming an Independent Business Owner with Conklin Company offers the advantage of a diverse product line and the backing of a long-established company. However, potential IBOs should be aware of reported management challenges and consider how these might impact their experience. As with any business opportunity, it's essential to conduct thorough research and assess whether the company's culture and practices align with your personal and professional goals.