On Thursday, we had a business visit at Dari King. We heard from Wendi, the owner, and her son McCaden, who now serves as the manager. McCaden attended Mitchell Tech for two years, where he studied wind energy. After graduating, he worked on the road in the industry. Although this opportunity gave McCaden a way to earn a lot of money, living on the road wore on him and he was ready to settle into a new business.
McCaden has since returned home and now manages Dari King, where he has worked since he was a child. Wendi was born and raised in Pipestone. Her parents were farmers who originally purchased Dari King along with its secret recipe—something only Wendi and her parents still know today. When her parents first bought the business, it operated strictly as a drive-through and walk-up. Growing up, Wendi remembers Dari King as a popular hangout spot for local kids.
When her parents decided to sell, they spread the word, and Wendi convinced her husband—who owns an auto body shop—to purchase it with her. At the time, Wendi worked at a school and initially planned to help only during the summers. However, the business required more of her time, leading her to leave her school position. She still teaches online on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Wendi appreciates that Dari King is not a franchise, as it allows her the freedom to run the business her own way. This year marks the 75th anniversary of Dari King. To celebrate, they hope to invite past employees back and host a car show. Wendi emphasized that her priority is building strong relationships with customers and giving back to the community, rather than simply maximizing profit.