Branford Small Business Spotlight: Big Mike's Tool and Equipment Repair

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this exciting series — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

Business: Big Mike’s Tool & Equipment Repair, LLC.
Owners: Mike & Debbie Chittenden
Website: bigmikestoolrepair.com
Address: 184 North Main Street - Branford

How did you come up with the name?

Well, Mike is a big guy! Plus it’s easy to remember and we wanted the business to have a personal tone.

Why start a business in this town?

We have lived here for 18 years, and couldn’t think of any better place to open a service business and be able to interact within our own community.

What business are you in?

Small engine repair, and tool repair. Everything from lawnmowers and generators, to chop saws and drills.

What’s the most difficult challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

Learning how to grow the business – we want to keep the Mom and Pop shop appeal, if we grow too big too quickly we are worried that aspect will begin to lack.

What’s been your proudest achievement since opening?

Honestly, just the responses from the customers and how happy they are we are here. Mike’s absolutely loves fixing equipment and it shows. We have met some amazing people we otherwise wouldn’t have met!

How does your business give back to the community?

We offer free pick-up and delivery to our Branford residents ($50.00 repair minimum) as we grow we hope to give back in other ways as well!

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email wendy.mitchell@patch.com.