FRANCISCO IBARRA ON THE SUCCESS OF MORELOS
Last week in Oklahoma City Morelos opened its 10th store, marking an unprecedented growth in the state’s Hispanic groceries industry, one that is part of a family legacy and a symbol of the solidarity and the hard work that characterizes all Mexicans.
Those who know Ibarra agree that he is the main benefactor of the Hispanic community in Tulsa; where there is a need, Ibarra offers a solution. From toy giveaways to scholarships and free meals, Ibarra invests time and money to make our community flourish.
“The truth is I don’t feel like a benefactor, I am just another regular person who wants to give back to the community, to share a bit with all those who have let us succeed,” he admitted humbly.
Morelos is expanding and already has reached the state of Texas, where it has two stores. The key to these accomplishments is not just the product, but the sense of responsibility of a business family who understands taking care of its community is a responsibility.
“We are part of a community in which we can all win, but to do that we need to play our part and take care of others. I have to look after my team, my employees, the community that surrounds me, and above all, like my father use to say, do it all responsibly. Being responsible is the most important thing in the world,” Ibarra stated, highlighting that teamwork is essential to keep the business healthy.
The Ibarras grew up in a family that cared about others. Grandparents,
children, and grandchildren were part of a huge support network.
“They never left anyone behind, they even helped taking care of each other’s animals at the ranch. Later on, they came together to America, and transferred all this responsibility to us,” explained Ibarra about his grandfather and the values that became a legacy.
Last week it was the great opening of the Oklahoma City store, and its future looks great.
“It’s a beautiful community and we wish to keep on spreading our culture there and in other places,” said Ibarra, convinced his brand is much more than a supermarket, it is a way of exporting Hispanic culture.
Ibarra looks back and feels the same chills he felt in 2003 with his first store.
“I am the same man, before we had one store and 15 employees, now, 10 stores and more than 500 people. I am proud of all the work we did with my family. We have a strong business, but I am the same man that use to greet my clients many years ago,” he confessed, knowing that with growth comes change, but change does not corrupt the essence.
To all those who wonder what it means to be Francisco Ibarra he answers: “The most important thing is to do what you love, do it humbly without seeking recognition, and always remember to serve others. It is the only way people will support you and you will succeed,” he concluded. (La Semana)