Member Spotlight: Bowtree, Inc.
When Mike Ray built an archery rack for his own backyard, he had no idea his creation was the foundation of his 
now business, Bowtree Inc.
“Bowtree got started when I needed something to hang my bow on in my own backyard,” said Ray. “I constructed an archery rack – or Bowtree – and it eventually led to a business. We now produce a whole line of archery supplies and have expanded beyond archery.”
Bowtree’s archery line now includes products for home and commercial ranges, plus retail stores and trade shows, such as camouflage bow racks, backyard range supplies, Bowtree hangers, floor racks and accessories, dealer display racks, ceiling and wall racks, target stands and stakes.
“We are part of the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP),” said Ray. “That program continues to grow each year; it has been a great market for our archery racks. We have shipped products around the country and even as far as Australia through NASP.”
In addition to archery products, Bowtree has a custom shop and retail store in the Quincy Mall. Custom designed plasma-cut signs are among the most popular products for individuals and businesses alike.
“Our custom-designed signs are very popular for gifts and for commercial use as well.” said Ray. “The powder coated finish won't scratch, chip or fade. We can produce high quality custom signs that hold up well and are affordable at the same time. We handle lots of one piece orders, but have also done many larger jobs, such as the steel Great River Road signs – that was a fun project because the signs are located along many of the scenic areas on the Great River Road.”
Bowtree also produces vinyl decals, signs and lettering for walls, vehicles, and more, in addition to custom t-shirts.
“Two things that set us apart are our ability to do small custom orders – often just one piece – and our quick turn-around. T-shirts usually have a 30 minute turn-around, so customers can do some shopping and pick them up before leaving the mall. Even large orders are usually next-day.”
Hydrographic printing is one of Bowtree's newest additions. Through this process, printed designs can be transferred onto a wide variety three-dimensional objects, from metal and glass to plastic and wood, providing 360-degree coverage and a durable finish.
“We are a custom, open welding shop, and we have grown enough that we are now adding the ability to do our own powder coating. We look forward to continuing to work with Powder Coat Plus, but having the ability to do our own powder coating on smaller items will allow us to increase turn-around time on custom orders.”
Ray says one of the secrets to his success with Bowtree is his employees.
“My Grandfather, who founded Manpower in Quincy and helped my father found Ray's Rental, always told me 'surround yourself with good people and they'll take you places.' I know a business is only as good as the people working there – and we have the best. We have three graphic designers on staff in the retail store, plus four additional employees in production and shipping – and we will be growing soon,” said Ray.
Despite hiring great people, the most popular member of the Bowtree team may be Bear, Ray's black lab.
“Some days I can't believe he's here; I never imagined having a dog good enough to bring to a place of business, but he is – and he's here every day. He entertains customers with tricks like retrieving bottles of water and throwing away trash. Based on the number of people who visit Bear, I think he's the most popular dog in Quincy.”
To visit Bear or learn more about Bowtree's products, visit the store at 3388 Quincy Mall (in the Sears wing), the powder coat and fabrication shop at 6500 Broadway, call (217) 223-1757 or visit www.bowtree.com.
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