Maverick's Nutrition calls Downtown Hutch home
The sixth-highest-grossing movie of all time now has a namesake in Hutchinson.
Dustin Ford, the owner of Maverick’s Nutrition in Downtown Hutchinson, says he was partly inspired by the “Top Gun” movie franchise for the store’s name. He has been involved in aviation for his entire adulthood.
“Right after high school, I went to flight school after Tulsa and went to school,” Ford said. “My nickname became ‘Maverick’ because I was flying. I flew for the regional airline for five years and I love ‘Top Gun.’ The first one is my favorite, but the second one is pretty darn good too.”
Maverick’s Nutrition serves healthy teas, smoothies, protein snacks and shakes.
Ford was born and raised in Hutchinson and graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1998. He moved back to town in 2010.
While operating an insurance agency near Imperial Nutrition, located at 2420 North Main St, Ford said he began going there almost every day.
“I saw how their business was growing, and it was growing so well, I figured it was a good opportunity,” Ford said. “I went to Dallas to a Herbalife meeting. This is a great opportunity to come and interact with the public with healthy drinks and shakes. I figured I just do a leap of faith.”
Ford said the community has been very receptive to a second nutrition store downtown.
“Our grand opening was the best first day of any club that (Herbalife) have seen,” Ford said. “Hutch has been very supportive and receptive. We had an amazing turnout for that grand opening.”
Ford’s family renovated the store and it continues to be operated by them.
“So far, it’s been a family affair,” Ford said. “It’s me, my niece and my father. My daughter has also been working with me at 5:30 a.m.”
The store is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is located at 24 South Main St.
“It worked down here. I love Hutch, and I want to be more involved with the city and doing things,” Ford said. “We’ll be open on Third Thursdays and really help and support the community. Downtown was the best location for a second spot.”