By ROD ZOOK
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It looks like the former site of Prairie Hills Nursery is occupied again. Travis and Kristin Mullen have decided to expand their landscaping and irrigation business, and have purchased the nursery.
The couple began the process of purchasing Prairie Hills Nursery and reached out for support and guidance through StartUp Hutch. They were able to utilize a SCORE business mentor to help guide them through the acquisition. They took possession of the property Dec. 30.
They are also keeping the name of the longtime nursery. “We wanted to keep the legacy alive,” Travis Mullen said. “Tom’s (Heintzman) done such a great job of building the legacy of that place and we want to just build upon it.”
The Mullens were also able to secure gap financing using StartUp Hutch’s E-Community Funds and access resources available to entrepreneurs at the state level through Network Kansas. First National Bank of Hutchinson was also a key partner in making the purchase possible.
The Mullens wanted to expand on the landscaping and irrigation business they purchased from their parents three years ago. That business will move from its current location on 56th Avenue to the 30th and Apple Lane location. The business will look pretty much the same, but will have some additional items and a little different look.