Ron Joyce, owner of Joyce Farms, discusses the North Carolina small business policy issues that most concern him.
Name: Ron Joyce
Business: Joyce Farms
Location: Village of Clemmons, North Carolina
Employees: 85
How did you become a small business owner and why?
Joyce Farms was a family business started by my father. I got involved in the business after college and decided to stay. When my father passed away in 1981, none of the other family members had an interest in the business, so I decided to purchase it. I am an entrepreneur, so I have enjoyed changing and growing the business, taking risks, meeting challenges, making my own decisions and bearing the consequences of those decisions.
What state level small business policy issues concern you?
Most small businesses are S-Corporations, meaning that business owners pay income tax for all company income at their personal rates. Although our last legislature reduced tax rates, corporate tax rates were lowered more than individual rates…These changes are much more detrimental to small businesses than larger companies.
We [also] need to work more aggressively to eliminate fraud within the worker’s compensation system. This unnecessarily raises costs for all businesses in North Carolina.
The elimination of 179 exemptions. This is a no-brainer… This faster write-off improves the cash flow of small companies, frees up cash to purchase equipment and reduces risk.
What could North Carolina do better?
North Carolina voters need to become more informed, elect and re-elect pro-business candidates… Businesses create jobs, and without a healthy business environment, jobs are not created or sustained…North Carolina leaders should be more accessible to business owners and let them know that they are welcome here.
Why did you join NFIB?
I joined NFIB and became active to align with other small- to medium-size business owners to make sure our voices are heard on state and national levels.
How has NFIB helped you run your business?
By keeping me informed and fighting against anti-business legislation on the state and federal level.
What advice do you have for other small business owners?
Enjoy the good times but prepare for adversity because it will come. When it does, stay positive, never give up and innovate your way out of it. Stay informed and get more involved in local, state and national politics.
