Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food & beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jacquie Fazekas, Founder of Bama Health Foods, located in Birmingham, AL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are the local natural health food store that serves people in under-resourced food desert communities in Birmingham who are skeptical or have poor medical care yet seek to improve their chronic illnesses. We provide an encouraging, loving environment with healthier ‘on the go’ foods, natural supplements, and personalized all-natural wellness services that are attainable and affordable to be well naturally.
Tell us about yourself
I have always battled health issues and, throughout the years, have had to seek natural solutions beyond medical solutions. I became a certified health coach in 2018 after leaving a long retail career to help others discover how to be naturally well. Only some have the resources or access to services to ensure their wellness. I am passionate about providing for these folks with limited access. Everyone is worthy of good health.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I had grown the store through COVID and earned to adapt to the business struggles throughout, with the move's recent devastating fire on 3/31/22 when we lost everything. In 3 weeks, we were back serving our customers outside under a tent with products to ensure they had their wellness needs met.
Since 8/22, we have launched the first mobile health food store in the country (according to our large supplement suppliers) - this has allowed us to continue to serve our community while waiting for the restoration of the store. Afterward, we will mobilize the bus into more under-resourced communities throughout Alabama.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Juggling all the demands from daily operations and HR issues and having enough time to work on the strategy for growth.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do your homework - know your customer and competition intimately.
- Surround yourself with a tribe of experts as an advisory team to help you get business done.
- Stay humble, curious, and a student of your industry.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://bamahealthfoods.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BamaHealthFoods/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bamahealthfoods/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bama-health-foods/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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