News

Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, named Bailey’s General Store as the Small Business of the Week for the week of January 21-25, 2019. Bailey’s General Store is located on Sanibel Island, Florida.
 
“Small businesses play a vital role in Florida’s diverse economy,” Chairman Rubio said. “As entrepreneurs who have found their niche in a market and succeeded in growing a customer-focused business, Richard and Mary Bailey Johnson, owners of Bailey’s General Store, set an example for other small businesses. Not only do they operate an outstanding general store, but they also go above and beyond to serve their community. Through various fundraisers, the Johnsons support both the local FISH food pantry and Kiwanis Club. After Hurricane Irma, the general store became a lifeline for residents needing supplies, and employees worked for ten days to clear debris with chainsaws. Bailey’s General Store exemplifies Florida’s unique entrepreneurial spirit, and I am proud to honor them as the Small Business of the Week.”
 
Bailey’s General Store was founded in 1899 as the Sanibel Packing Company by Frank P. Bailey. Since then, three generations of the Bailey family have continued to serve the people of Sanibel Island. Today, Bailey’s is owned and run by Richard and Mary Bailey Johnson, who continue the tradition of service to the Sanibel Island community.
 
As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Senator Rubio continues the tradition of honoring America’s small businesses and entrepreneurs. The Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship oversees proposed legislation on matters relating to the Small Business Administration and investigates all problems relating to America’s small businesses.