Have you noticed any ownership changes in the businesses in Buhl? You may have missed some changes because the name of the business remained the same. Why do businesses keep the same name when ownership changes? For one thing, it’s familiarity. Buhl Family Network purchased the Youth Ranch Thrift Store six years ago and it’s still referred to as Youth Ranch…although much less frequently. Businesses are also sensitive to retaining customer trust and the business reputation when keeping the name. Let’s take a look at some ownership changes and business names staying the same and then some new business owners/names in our community.

Rangen is one of the most familiar business names in Buhl and has been providing animal feed for over 100 years. Even if you know that Rangen was purchased by Wilbur-Ellis in 2019, you may be surprised to learn, as I was, that Balmoral Funds purchased Rangen in 2025. This is what’s interesting: Balmoral rebranded their entire independent animal nutrition business under the name Rangen. In other words, the name Rangen is so well known and regarded that products are sold under that name both throughout the U.S. and internationally. And Rangen headquarters is in Buhl, Idaho!

Quigley Heating and Sheet Metal has been in operation for over 90 years. In June of this year, Valley Wide Cooperative purchased Quigley. The name Quigley will continue to be used for the HVAC business. The former owner, Robin Quigley, told me he wants to spend more time with family. I’m all for that! Last year, Robin and crew installed a new HVAC system in the NOT Youth Ranch thrift store, and staff and customers are very happy with it. People came to the store during our lengthy hot summer to browse and cool off.

Famer Funeral Chapel has been operating under that name for over 40 years. It was owned by various members of the Farmer family until 2018 when it was purchased by Paul and Amie Swenson. Notice they didn’t change it to their name. Based on these three examples, I think longevity has a lot to do with keeping the same business name.

Here are some other changes in Buhl businesses: Miguel Serna owns La Cabanita (still same business name), Bobbins is now Little Warriors Daycare and Preschool, Kanaka Bistro is now Rinconcito Mexican Restaurant (not yet open), and Divine Style and Finds (women’s boutique) at 124 Broadway has its Grand Opening scheduled for October 29.

Here’s the main thing to keep in mind about Buhl businesses regardless of their names: this is our community and the businesses provide products and services for our community. So let’s support them in word and deed by promoting them and purchasing their products at every opportunity!

-Priscilla Martens