Baltimore Business Owners Cite Trust and Community as Keys to Success

Owners of a bookstore, candle company, lumber firm, and Chinese restaurant share why they chose Baltimore and what keeps them there.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:38pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a stack of polished wooden planks, a brass hammer, and a worn leather notebook arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic grey background, symbolizing the craftsmanship and community-focused values of Baltimore's small businesses.The tools and materials of Baltimore's small business community reflect the trust, relationships, and legacy that sustain local enterprises.Baltimore Today

A diverse group of Baltimore business owners, including the co-owners of a 107-year-old lumber company, a 25-year-old bookstore, a 12-year-old candle business, and a 5-month-old Chinese restaurant, all agree that building trust and a strong sense of community are crucial to finding success and sustainability in the city's business landscape.

Why it matters

Baltimore is a 'relationship-heavy town' where personal connections and reputation are vital for local businesses to thrive, especially in the face of competition from larger national chains. The stories of these entrepreneurs provide insights into how small and legacy businesses can navigate the challenges of operating in an urban environment.

The details

The Fruman brothers, who co-own the 107-year-old National Lumber Co. in Canton, say their family-owned company has been able to grow and remain competitive by building strong relationships and a trusted reputation in the local area. This sentiment was echoed by the owners of The Ivy Bookshop, KSM Candle Co., and Bao Di restaurant, who all emphasized the importance of trust and community in finding success in Baltimore's business landscape.

  • National Lumber Co. has been in business for 107 years.
  • The Ivy Bookshop has been operating for 25 years.
  • KSM Candle Co. has been in business for 12 years.
  • Bao Di restaurant opened 5 months ago.

The players

Kevin Fruman

Co-owner of National Lumber Co., a fifth-generation, family-owned lumber company in Baltimore's Canton neighborhood.

Neal Fruman

Co-owner of National Lumber Co., a fifth-generation, family-owned lumber company in Baltimore's Canton neighborhood.

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What they’re saying

“At the end of the day, people want to buy from who they know and who they like.”

— Kevin Fruman, Co-owner, National Lumber Co.

The takeaway

The stories of these diverse Baltimore business owners highlight the importance of building trust and fostering a strong sense of community as keys to success and sustainability, even in the face of competition from larger national chains. Their experiences provide valuable insights for other entrepreneurs looking to start or grow a business in the city.