Clark County startup: Green Flush Technologies
Inside the portable flush restroom building created by Vancouver-based Green Flush Technologies.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Business name: Green Flush Technologies.
Owners: Ken Earlywine and his son, Kyle Earlywine.
Address: Operates out of private residence in Vancouver's Ellsworth Springs neighborhood.
Product: Green Flush Technologies manufactures unique prefabricated restroom buildings equipped with flush toilets and sinks that require no on-site utility connections. Campgrounds and golf courses, for example, can have affordable flush restroom buildings without installing water, sewer or power systems. The basic model costs about $45,000.
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Steps to build the business: Ken and Kyle Earlywine said they are identifying and calling potential purchasers. They have built a fully operational demo restroom building which is mounted on a trailer to take to trade shows and customers. They have also updated their website.
Greatest challenge: The Earlywines said even if people or businesses could use their product, they may not be aware that someone sells a self-contained flush restroom.
Work ahead in next six to eight months: Marketing. The Earlywines will be exhibiting their model at a golf industry show in San Diego in February and at a parks and recreation conference in Vancouver in March. They will also advertise in periodicals read by those in their target markets.
A favorite part of your work: Ken's favorite activity is designing new models and researching possible improvements. Kyle enjoys developing relationships with clients and making presentations and sales.
Professional background: Ken is an engineer with 35 years of experience with the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Oregon Department of Transportation. He designed a microflush mobile flush restroom while working for the National Park Service.
Startup history: Designing and building a prototype over the past four years; currently have a display model.
People involved: Two employees, plus part-time subcontractors.
Telephone: 360-718-7595.
Email: info@greenflushrestrooms.com.
Website: http://www.greenflushrestrooms.com.
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
