Eat, Shop, Bank Local: Nutrition 712 opens their doors in Council Bluffs

May 19, 2020 | TS Bank

At TS Bank we believe that a community is only as strong as its local businesses. This is why we have highlighted local businesses in Southwest, Iowa, as part of our Eat, Shop, Bank Local blog series. For this blog we have featured the husband and wife owners of Nutrition 712.

Who are the owners of this business?
Allyn and Amber Owens. Allyn and Amber have six children and also are active foster parents. Allyn is a native of Council Bluffs and graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School. Amber graduated from Omaha Central High School and is an Iowa Western Alumna. Allyn spent many years in construction and did all of the work on the store himself. Allyn and Amber stated everything they do centers around nutrition and family.

How did they get involved in the business?
Passion for fitness and helping others. They also wanted to find something that works but was affordable. The two have always had a dream of owning a business and when this opportunity came, they couldn’t pass it up.

How many employees do they have?
Fun fact: they have one employee from Abraham Lincoln High School, Thomas Jefferson High School, Lewis Central High School, and Iowa Western Community College each.

Why did they want to own a business in Council Bluffs?
It is where Allyn grew up and they saw a large need for a good nutrition shop/shake shop.

What do they like most about the community?
How supportive the community is. Being on the 100 Block, there are a lot of different activities and options for those who live in the community or nearby.

What do they offer that other businesses similar can’t?
They are the only nutrition/shake shop in Council Bluffs. They offer a wide variety of products and services. They will soon be offering fitness classes and also offer a place for kids to hang out while adults enjoy a tea or protein shake.

What advice would Allyn and Amber give to other people who are interested in starting their own business?
GO FOR IT! They opened during a pandemic! Also, set a goal and keep it to yourself. There will always be nay-sayers who try to bring you down. Their motto is “Happy Healthy Community”.

Where do they want to be in five years?
The two want to have other shops in the area and have more time to vacation with the kids.

Give the best pitch why people should choose to shop local?
When you shop local you are helping out a family, who re-invests in the community. You will see your money three times over when you shop local. 

Is there anything else to add?
Nutrition 712 offers a variety of products, from meal replacement shakes, healthy teas, supplements, to knowledgeable employees and a great atmosphere. Allyn and Amber are passionate about helping youth, Allyn coaches youth sports and wants to eventually establish a fund to pay for sports equipment for youth who are less fortunate.

Location and hours?
Nutrition 712
118 W Broadway
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Open 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

How can someone get in contact with you?
Call (712) 796-4306 or find them on Facebook at @Nutrition712cb.