Last week, next year’s and current CEO team-members attended our capstone trip, visiting three outstanding businesses in McClean, IL.
Our first stop was Arcadia, America’s largest playable arcade museum, where owner John Yates gave us a personal tour and time to play some of the games. John shared how it all started in 2009 in a single building and grew over time by adding more space, more games, and a party room. His goal has always been simple: be the cheapest entertainment option in the area while delivering an experience worth coming back for. Inspired by Silver Dollar City, John’s biggest emphasis was doing everything with excellence and making sure every guest walks away with a memory.
Our second stop was Funk’s Grove Maple Sirup Farm, where we learned what it looks like to build a business around a resource that has been growing for hundreds of years. Using a modern tubing system, they produced 1,600 gallons of maple syrup this year with almost no advertising. Locals and tourists simply keep coming back on their own!
We wrapped the day at Dixie Truck Stop and Restaurant, a family restaurant and truck stop that has been open since 1928. A business that has stood for nearly 100 years is not a coincidence. It is the result of consistency, care, and a commitment to excellence every single day.
CEO team members are grateful to every business that opened their doors and poured into our group.
