Milagros de Mexico
Oakland, CA
Mauricio Simbeck was inspired to open Milagros de Mexico, a health and wellness retain chain, because of his desire to bring resources to an underserved community in Oakland. Now his store sits at 33rd Avenue and International Boulevard in Oakland and specializes in the underserved Latino population. In addition to retail, Milagros de Mexico houses a clinic, offering same-day and walk-in appointments to the community. Milagros de Mexico also hosts events each month, including free diabetes testing, helping their clients get diagnosed and treated at a low cost.
OBDC’s Oakland Business Sustainability Program approached Mauricio with business support services in anticipation of the upcoming Bus Rapid Transit construction scheduled to begin in 2016. This program offers business advising services and capital to existing local small businesses along the construction route to help them survive the construction and thrive after the new bus line launches.
As part of the Oakland Business Sustainability Program, Milagros de Mexico received marketing consultations to help increase sales, solidify their brand, and reach new customers. “As a result of working with OBDC, we improved the messaging and content of our monthly circular, we improved our website SEO, and improved our Facebook content,” says Mauricio. “The ideas that we got from OBDC were realistic and not difficult to execute. Our experience with OBDC was extremely professional.”
The East Oakland store is one of six regional stores in the Bay Area, focused on serving Latinos. Milagros de Mexico will celebrate its fifth anniversary in April 2016 and has 34 employees, offering jobs and opportunities in the community.
“I would advise new entrepreneurs to remember that there are always ups and downs – be persistent and optimistic,” says Mauricio. “Having mentors who are willing to listen and guide you, as well as financing, is really helpful to starting and growing your business.”
For more information about Milagros de Mexico, visit their website.
