2020 SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

The Small Business of the Year Award is intended to recognize the contributions of small businesses to the economic growth of the Kearney area. To be eligible for the Small Business of the Year Award, all applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a current member in good standing of the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce for a minimum of two years

• Have completed a minimum of three years in business (do not want to compete with New Business of the Year award)

• Have a minimum of three (3) employees and a maximum of fifty (50) employees

• Responds to business challenges and problems with effective solutions

• Show growth in sales, services and/or growth in number of individuals served and expanded products, programs or services

• Demonstrate a commitment to ethical business practices

• Demonstrate a commitment to employee support and development

• Demonstrate community involvement/leadership

• Demonstrate a commitment to utilizing resources in the Kearney area to help your business grow

Congratulations, Marshall Land Brokers and Auctioneers, our 2020 Small Business of the Year!

The story of Marshall Land Brokers and Auctioneers is a family heritage that has grown on the importance of family support and working together. It was 1945 when Warren T. Marshall purchased the Kearney Livestock Commission Co., a livestock auction market in Kearney, Nebraska. Over the next 10 years two of his sons, Eugene and Robin, graduated from auction school and became the primary auctioneers at the livestock market. Upon Warren’s death in 1967, Robin and Eugene purchased the livestock market from their father’s estate and operated it successfully until the sale of the business in 1984. During the years Robin and Eugene also conducted many auctions of farm machinery and land throughout central Nebraska. In 1978, Robin’s son, Miles graduated from auction school and obtained a real estate brokers license. Miles initiated and developed the real estate business specializing in marketing agricultural and rural properties. In 1984, Eugene’s son Jeff, graduated from auction school and has since been very active in auctions of agricultural assets throughout the region.

TODAY –

Marshall Land Brokers & Auctioneers is recognized throughout the Midwest as a leader in marketing ag real estate, farm machinery, heavy equipment and business liquidations. For auction and real estate companies their most valuable asset is reputation. The reputation of quality service, quality people and outstanding performance are fundamental and the hallmark of Marshall Land Brokers & Auctioneers. Our business has grown significantly over the years based on these simple principles. We will continue to strive to maintain a credible reputation for honesty and integrity while providing top quality service to our customers.

Marshall Land Brokers & Auctioneers is led by Miles Marshall and supported by Robin Marshall, Jeff Marshall, Brenda Marshall, Jan Hinrichsen, and Luke Huddleston.

As we continue watching this family-run business grow and succeed, we at the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce will be proud to continue supporting the Marshall family's efforts in the Central Nebraska area. Thank you for 40+ years of chamber membership and always recognizing the importance that the Chamber plays in your business. Congratulations again to our 2020 Small Business of the Year!

Past Award Winners: 2019 Sayler Screenprinting | 2014 Vertical Focus Realty/Kearney Rental Pros | 2013 Barney Abstract & Title Co. | 2012 Kearney PowerSports | 2011 Perfect Nails | 2010 Kearney Tire & Auto | 2009 Wilke Donovan True Value | 2008 Doug Koster/Mr. Basketball | 2007 Ward Laboratories | 2006 Runza Restaurants | 2005 Tri-City Storm