At Banterra, we strive to be your financial partner in all aspects of your banking needs, including offering products that fit your unique needs, building strong relationships, and providing support in every way we can to help your business succeed. One of the ways that we show that support is through Banterra’s “Meet The Merchant” blog series, which provides insight into the entrepreneurial journey of some of our business customers and then promoted through our marketing channels. This month we are highlighting Fresh Healthy Café, founded by Rick Hetzel and his wife, Cheryl Mothes, to bring healthier, quick-dining options to their community. Continue reading to learn how their focus on healthy living and relationships has fueled their growth in Cape Girardeau, Missouri and beyond.

What Was The Inspiration Or Motivation In Starting Your Business?

Our inspiration was driven by our own healthy lifestyle, which prioritizes fitness and nutrition. My wife, Cheryl Mothes, and I sought to bring healthier eating opportunities to our community.

How Has Your Business Grown Over The Years?

The rising prevalence of obesity and lifestyle-related health concerns is driving a growing number of individuals to adopt healthier dietary habits. Fresh Healthy Cafe is leading the way in the quick-serve restaurant industry.

What Have You Done To Achieve Such Growth?

We're more than just a source of delicious, healthy food; we're actively involved in educating our community on healthy lifestyle choices and forging partnerships with local schools, businesses, and organizations.

What Is One Piece Of Advice You'd Give To Aspiring Entrepreneurs?

Cultivate an awareness of what you don't yet know and gather resources to strengthen those areas. Always remain open to new ideas.

How Does Your Community Play A Role In Your Success?

We actively nurture relationships, believing they are the foundation of great business. Our goal is to be a vital community resource, creating a truly welcoming environment for our customers and strengthening connections with our local partners.

How Has Banterra Helped Your Business To Become More Successful?

Banterra Bank has been our trusted financial partner for nearly twenty years, supporting both our real estate investment company, R. Hetzel Properties, and our current restaurant businesses. They uniquely offer sophisticated financial tools and programs typically found at much larger banks, yet with a personalized understanding of our diverse business models.

More than just a local bank for daily transactions, Banterra serves as a strategic partner. They regularly consult with our team on business goals and growth initiatives, providing invaluable insights into financial opportunities that might give our businesses a competitive edge.

Staying Connected With Fresh Healthy Café

If you’re looking for healthier dining options or inspiration to live well, Fresh Healthy Café makes it easy to stay connected. Visit their website or their social media pages including Facebook and Instagram.

Choosing Banterra As Your Business Banking Partner

Banterra is proud to support our business customers within our communities over the last 50 years. Whether it is banking products, loan offerings, or treasury management tools, we are dedicated to solutions that fit the unique needs of your business. If you are looking to start or grow your entrepreneurial journey, and need a bank that is truly a partner, connect with our team today.