Meet HB Top Soil - A true Eastside asset

The Eastside Neighborhood Council is proud of our local merchants and businesses.

Each month Eastside Pride News will spotlight an Eastside business that you should visit and love just as much as we do.

This month we'll shake hands with none other than Luke Becker, owner of HB Top Soil, 4810 Portland Ave. E.

So, Luke, what does your company specialize in?
Rock, dirt, material, landscape supplies, equipment rentals, anything a landscaper needs. What are some of your products? Slates, custom blends for nurseries, compost, special yard blends and gravel. We also still carry some kerosene and propane.

What sets you or your company apart from your competition?
We have a great product and we offer exceptional service. It’s a perfect little store.

How long has your company been in business on the Eastside?
In 1928, we started as a fuel company. In 1946, as H&B fuel, we got our first business license for $1. Then we sold stove oil and appliances and some aggregates like top soil. We’re now focusing and the soil business, and it continues to grow. What has your company done to grow or improve? We work hard at building personal relationships with our customers. We’re always improving customer service. One of our values is integrity. We do what we say we’ll do.

Describe one of the best days you’ve had since you opened your doors on the Eastside.
The best day is every Saturday when families bring all their children. People are waiting in the yard, loading rock and the kids get a quarter for the vending machines. We also volunteer and we bring material and equipment for any Habitat for Humanity project on the Eastside. We help with Young Life projects, too. That’s very rewarding.