How Robinson Enterprises found a banking partner when they needed one most
When your business depends on seasonal cash flow and your longtime bank suddenly pulls the rug out from under you during a recession, you need more than just another lender — you need a true community banking partner. That's exactly what Robinson Enterprises discovered when they found us during one of the most challenging periods in recent economic history.
A Legacy Business Faces an Unexpected Crisis
Robinson Enterprises has deep roots in Nevada City, California. Founded in 1949 by Tim Robinson's grandfather, the company began as Robinson and Sons before evolving into Robinson Timber and finally Robinson Enterprises. Over seven decades, this family business has weathered countless storms, adapting from old-school hand-falling operations to today's sophisticated logging systems that can efficiently process trees in an increasingly mechanized industry.
But even the strongest businesses can face unexpected challenges from sources they least expect — their own bank.
"We were with another bank and they, for whatever reason, weren't renewing our line of credit," recalls Tim Robinson, current owner of Robinson Enterprises. "Our company is a very seasonal business and we rely heavily on an operating line of credit. If we don't have that to make it through winter, we might as well be out of business."
The timing couldn't have been worse. During the recession, when businesses across Northern California were struggling, Robinson Enterprises — despite over 20 years of banking history with their previous institution — found themselves without the lifeline that kept their seasonal operation running.
That’s where we stepped in.
When Community Connections Matter Most
Fortunately, Robinson Enterprises discovered what sets community banking apart from big bank operations. Through a local business connection, they learned about our unique approach to community banking. One conversation changed everything.
"My grandfather called [River Valley Community Bank] and they said, 'Yes, we'll give you a line of credit, no problem,'" Tim recalls. "And so that was our beginning with River Valley Bank and it has been a great partnership."
This is exactly the kind of situation many of our clients find themselves. And, it illustrates the fundamental difference between real community banking and big bank operations.
Where one institution saw risk and said “no,” our team saw an established local business with a solid track record and said “yes.”
We look beyond automated decisions to evaluate local businesses on their merits.
The Power of Being Known, Not Just a Number
What happened next transformed not just Robinson Enterprises' banking relationship, but their entire business trajectory. "Working with [the team at] River Valley Bank is great because they do know us at the bank," Tim explains. "We walk in the door. They know who we are and it's truly a community bank. You're not just a number at a large bank. So we feel very valued with River Valley."
Our longstanding personal relationship has enabled Robinson Enterprises to truly thrive. With our help, Robinson Enterprises has consolidated all their banking and expanded their financing arrangements to support growth and modernization.
"We communicate whenever we're ready to buy a new piece of equipment. And there's no surprises. They just work with us," Tim explains. This proactive communication and partnership approach has enabled the company to modernize their operations while maintaining the quality and sustainability that has defined them for over 70 years.
Where their previous bank made unilateral decisions that threatened the business, we are dedicated to working collaboratively to support Robinson Enterprises' goals and growth plans.
What This Means for Your Business
Robinson Enterprises' story paints a picture of why the right banking partner matters, especially for seasonal businesses, contractors, agricultural operations, and other enterprises that face cyclical cash flow challenges. When you're dealing with equipment financing, operating lines of credit, or navigating economic uncertainty, having a bank that knows your business personally can make the difference between surviving and thriving.
Our approach goes beyond traditional lending. We take time to understand each business's unique challenges, seasonal patterns, and growth objectives. It’s the community-first banking model that has helped Robinson Enterprises weather everything from economic uncertainty to growth and expansion. It can help your business, too.
Ready to Experience Community Banking?
If your business faces seasonal cash flow challenges, equipment financing needs, or you're simply tired of being treated like a number at a large institution, it might be time to discover what true community banking can do for you.
Visit one of our convenient locations in Yuba City, Marysville, Grass Valley, Auburn, or Roseville, or speak with one of our banking experts today. Let us show you how River Valley Community Bank can become your trusted financial partner, just like we have for Robinson Enterprises and countless other local businesses throughout Northern California.