Ferg’s owner discusses entrepreneurship at USF forum

Mark Ferguson, the owner of Ferg’s Sports Bar and Grill, recounted his journey from a physical education teacher to a successful entrepreneur at a University of South Florida (USF) event. His story, spanning over three decades, highlights the importance of passion, dedication, and calculated risk-taking in building a thriving business. For residents of the Tampa Bay area, and particularly those in St. Petersburg and Dunedin, Ferguson's story is more than just a business success; it’s a reflection of the city’s evolving identity and its embrace of community-driven enterprises.

Ferguson began his entrepreneurial adventure in 1986 when he witnessed the appeal of a small sports bar, Murphy’s Bleachers, located just outside the Chicago Cubs’ stadium. This experience sparked an idea that would eventually lead to Ferg’s. Five years later, he saw an opportunity to replicate this concept in St. Petersburg, a city then undergoing significant revitalization efforts, particularly in the Historic Gas Plant District. The area, once a thriving industrial hub, was transitioning into a mixed-use entertainment and residential zone. The acquisition of a former Sunoco gas station in this district provided the foundation for Ferg’s, which now occupies nearly two city blocks and can accommodate up to 3,000 people.

Initially, Ferguson faced numerous challenges. The establishment did not make a profit for years, and he had to reinvest money back into the business. The early years coincided with periods of economic uncertainty and required significant personal investment. He emphasized the importance of taking calculated risks and making daily decisions on what needed to be done next, a mindset crucial for survival in a competitive market.

“The biggest thing in my life is that when I see something that I think is a good idea, I act on it,” Ferguson said. “It’s all about passion. If you don’t have the passion and you don’t have the work ethic, it’s not going to work.” This sentiment resonates with many aspiring entrepreneurs in the region, particularly those drawn to St. Petersburg’s burgeoning business scene.

Over the years, Ferg’s has grown significantly. The presence of the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field, initially a critical factor in Ferg’s success, and the addition of live entertainment and concerts have contributed to its evolution into a major entertainment destination. However, Ferguson remains optimistic about the future of the Rays in St. Petersburg, despite the organization's recent non-binding agreement with Tampa. The potential relocation of the Rays highlights a larger debate about the future of professional sports in the region and the importance of public investment.

During the USF event, Ferguson shared valuable advice with attendees, including Muma College of Business students. He highlighted the importance of surrounding oneself with good people and listening to their ideas. “You’re only as good as the people around you,” he said. “You’re only as good as how hard you’re willing to work.” His emphasis on collaboration and active listening is particularly relevant in today's dynamic business environment, where adaptability and responsiveness are key to success.

“Let them tell you what they’re thinking,” Ferguson added. “If you’re always interrupting them, nothing will ever get done.” This underscores the value of diverse perspectives and the importance of creating an inclusive environment for innovation.

Community Reaction

The audience at the USF event was enthusiastic, with many students and business professionals expressing admiration for Ferguson’s journey and his insights.

Student Feedback

The opportunity to interact with a successful local entrepreneur provides invaluable real-world experience for aspiring business leaders.

What's Next

Ferguson believes that the future of Ferg’s is bright, especially with the recent renovation of Tropicana Field and the planned expansion of the surrounding area. He sees potential for more concerts and events on the property, which will further enhance the venue’s appeal. The ongoing development of the surrounding area, including residential and commercial projects, promises to bring increased foot traffic and economic activity to the Historic Gas Plant District.

“This is a brand new building,” Ferguson said. “It’s good for another 30 years. We have 86 acres to build around it. We have a young environment here. The city is walkable. When they’re done building that out, we’ll have another 15,000 people living on that site. So, I think the attendance will take care of itself over the years.” This vision for the future aligns with the city’s broader goals of creating a vibrant and sustainable urban environment.

While Ferguson remains optimistic, he acknowledges the possibility of opening a smaller location in Tampa if the Rays decide to move. However, he is confident that Ferg’s will continue to thrive in St. Petersburg. The potential relocation of the Rays remains a significant uncertainty, and its impact on Ferg’s and the surrounding businesses could be substantial.

Several key questions remain. How will the Rays' decision impact the long-term viability of businesses in the Historic Gas Plant District? Will Ferg’s be able to maintain its appeal if the Rays relocate? And what other opportunities exist for entrepreneurs to contribute to St. Petersburg’s continued growth and revitalization? The community should also monitor the city's efforts to attract and retain talent, as a skilled workforce is essential for supporting a thriving business ecosystem.