Ronald Carroll
Buck Stove of Spruce Pine is under new ownership but the company’s core values are unchanged.
Ronald Carroll is the new owner but for him, it’s familiar. He took over the business this past April and prior to that, he spent two decades as a salesman under Robert Bailey.
Carroll vividly remembers his first day on the job— March 2, 2001, when he was assigned to a trade show in Atlanta.
“My initial thought was what did I do?” Carroll said with a laugh. “But I fell into the groove. I’ve really enjoyed my ride with Buck Stove.”
His ride continues. Carroll said he’s proud to sell Buck Stove products because of the high quality. Buck Stove materials, he added, will always be sourced as close to home as possible.
Under Carroll’s leadership, the company has already grown. When he took over this past April, the company employed just over 75 people.
There are 92 in place now and the company is actively hiring. As Carroll looks to usher in updated and more streamlined methods into the assembly and sales processes, he needs help.
“We’ve spent a lot of money on new equipment.,” he said. “We’re looking to expand even more. We need people. That’s what we need.”
The people that join Carroll’s team will be part of an evolving business.
“We don’t want to stay the same,” Carroll admitted. “We want to grow.”
Carroll plans to update the Buck Stove product line and enhance the company’s equipment. He praised Bailey for the strong existing foundation.
He can praise him in person. Bailey plans to remain at Buck Stove helping his protege daily through December.
“This wasn’t a buy the business and kick everyone out thing,” Carroll said. “Robert is helping still. He’s helping me get on my feet and get established. He continues to be a part of the business.”
Carroll said he plans to soak up Bailey’s immense knowledge of the manufacturing process. He also plans to emulate his commitment to the community.
“I’m a community guy,” Carroll said. “I intend on being involved. We have some plans to do some things for the community and help out. I don’t think they’ll be disappointed.”
Carroll said his door is always open to anyone in need. He also plans to continue to honor veterans. He served in the United States Marines from 1982-86.
While the leadership is new and the company is evolving, Buck Stove isn’t leaving.
“We’re here to stay,” Carroll said. “We’re not going anywhere.”