Owner:David Dallas
Year established:2009
Services:Painting and wallcoverings
Q: What made you want to start your own business, and why did you choose this type of business?
A: I started in the painting business in 1995 as an apprentice and took a liking to it, so I worked my way up the ladder. After 14 years of experience, the next step was to own my own business. At that time, I felt I had gained enough knowledge and experience to go off on my own. I had a lot of ideas that would have improved client relationships as well as benefit employees, but I could not act on those ideas unless I was in control of the company, so I started my own company.
Q: How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your business?
A: We have had some projects postponed or canceled, unfortunately. We have had to implement a COVID-19 safety plan to help protect our employees and are operating much more cautiously these days. This slows down production at times, but we are grateful to still be working, so we will get through this and do our best to keep our people safe. Our employees’ safety comes first, and they have been great in adopting our new safety policies.
Q: To what do you attribute your success?
Hard work, good timing, great employees and a little luck. Also, the opportunity the Community has given me, directly and indirectly.
Q: What are your company’s goals?
A: I wanted DPP to be at the top of our industry, doing large projects in Arizona. We have entered that category and are working our way up. Recently we completed the Great Wolf Lodge and the San Francisco Giants Spring Training Facility, and we are currently working on several other large projects in town. Every year our gross sales have gone up, and we work with up to 110 painters. Our office has grown some as well. A few years back we were able to achieve many of my goals by offering our employees a 401K as well as health, dental and vision benefits.
Q: What is unique about your business?
A: Our employees make us unique. We are a dedicated team that works together on behalf of DPP. All my key employees have been with me for many years, some going back to the very beginning. Several key employees, including myself, have experience in general contracting as well, so we can provide our clients with a unique understanding of their needs, as most of our clients are general contractors.
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting out in business, what would that be?
A: Give it everything you have and never doubt yourself or your ability to succeed. Keep pushing forward no matter how hard it gets, even at times when it feels like your entire world is going to collapse around you. Remember that only 1% of businesses make it, so before you go for it know that you are going to be part of that 1% and do not let anything or anyone stop you. Also, never burn any bridges. People tend to come back into your life when you least expect them to, so always be professional and complete your job every time, no matter what.
You can reach David Dallas at (623) 337-4070 or david@dallaspropainting.com
