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Eric Nelson: Keeping it Local

By Caitlyn Stair, Diamond Certified Research Reporter

Eric Nelson’s local roots influence how he works with customers, supports neighborhood organizations and approaches his role as a small-business owner. His professional path started shortly after high school, when he tried to balance collegiate life with a steady job. “I went to De Anza College in the mornings and evenings, but I handled shipping and receiving for Saratoga Plumbing Supply during the day,” he recalls. “I eventually moved into sales and found that I really enjoyed working with people, so I thought it could be a good career.”

After five years at Saratoga Plumbing Supply’s Cupertino location, Eric transferred to its sister store in Willow Glen and became its manager. Within another five years, the original owner offered him the opportunity to purchase the location. Eric acquired Saratoga Plumbing Supply II in 1998 and renamed it SplashWorks in 2006. Today, his approach is shaped by a belief that local companies play an important role in strengthening their communities. “I think small businesses are the backbone of our country,” he says. “It takes a village to keep a village. If you don’t support your local businesses, where does your community stand?”

Because Eric lives in the same San Jose community where he operates SplashWorks, he takes his responsibility to his customers personally. “I want to sell people the best possible products because I know I’m going to run into them at the grocery store,” he says. “We get a lot of repeat customers because they had such great experiences with us. They know they’re going to get high-quality stuff and really good service while supporting a local company.”

That support goes both ways—SplashWorks helps numerous Willow Glen schools and organizations through sponsorships and donations, and Eric and his wife, Anne Marie, regularly host themed fundraisers at their home. The company also participates in several local traditions, including filling a bathtub with candy for Halloween and handling the annual Christmas tree lighting. “We worked with an arborist and a crane company and invested in thousands of commercial-grade lights to make it look like a real Christmas tree,” says Eric. “We’re always adding to the lights as the tree grows, too. It’s a tradition that we’re proud to support.”

After nearly four decades in the plumbing supply industry, Eric remains committed to serving the community that has supported his family and business. For him, owning a local company means standing behind what he sells, developing lasting customer relationships and giving back whenever possible.

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Just sit and enjoy the rain.

Q: What’s your favorite holiday?
A: Halloween. My wife and I love dressing up, and we usually come up with a themed costume together.

Q: Do you prefer being somewhere cold or somewhere hot?
A: It’s about 50/50. I love visiting warm places like Mexico and Hawaii, but I also love skiing and snowboarding.