FATHERHOOD WEEK: Fathers Day Is Everyday At Area Businesses

What do successful father-son businesses in Crofton have in common? They seem to especially relish their work, and working well with each other.  They also place a high value on customer satisfaction, quality, and trustworthiness.

In Crofton Shopping Center, selling carpeting has been a father-son tradition for three generations. Not only is it a father-son partnership, it all began with their grandfather.

William Berlin originally opened over 40 years ago.  Over the years Berlin’s son, Bill and his brother became involved in the business. This eventually lead to them purchasing the business from their father. According to Greg Berlin, who partnered with his dad, Bill Berlin, the two eventually took over the business full time. 

“This store truly is a father-son business. When I was old enough to work, I was here every day. Dad taught me everything I know,” said Greg Berlin. The lifelong Bowie resident goes on to explain that as his dad got older he began taking on more responsibilities in the store and is now a partner with his father.

“My dad taught me a no-pressure sales approach at an early age; we don’t just believe in it, we practice it. He taught me to be a people person, to care about our customers and know them,” explained Berlin.    

Berlin went on to say that his father instilled good values and because of that, it was a “very natural fit for the two of them to work together.” He also added “Now I have a son and I want to instill in him a high level of standards. Part of me would be overjoyed if someday he takes over this business. However, that is counter to the fact that owning a small business is very stressful. But it is coupled with great joy and pride in ownership.”

Berlin said his 7-year-old son Gavin usually spends an hour at the store after school everyday. “We call him our ‘flooring durability tester!'”  Berlin said.

across from corner of Riedel Road and Rt. 3 is also a successful father-son partnership. However, son Josh Gill said it feels much more like a friend-partnership instead.

“Dad and I not only spend three or four days a week in the shop together but frequently we get together for family dinners and movies every Saturday,” said Gill.

More than 20 years ago,  a then 18-year-old Gill worked side by side with his dad Ray Gill at the station. Then his father purchased the shop from the original owner. After the purchase Gill continued to work there and over the years took on additional responsibilities.

“We are now partners. Dad is here 3 days a week. He is in charge of the overall operation of the shop. I deal with the day-to-day stuff,” said Crofton resident Gill. 

“Not only has it been wonderful working with my dad over the years but I hope to do the same with my daughters,” said Gill the father of three girls.

“My seven year old daughter is in here all the time. Someday I hope she will become a partner also. This is our family tradition,” Gill said.