Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in retail but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dave Thompson of MAPLEX NATURALS INC, based in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada.
Tell us about yourself
I started my career in financial services and banking.
My roots are in Customer Loyalty management, and customer acquisition via analytics and digital marketing. I got involved in the personal care because I am passionate about customer acquisition strategies and how customers engage with brands for purchases via online and other retail strategies.
The idea as well to start something new as an entrepreneur was a strong motivator particularly in a field in which I had no experience, and was a challenge I could not resist.
In my role as CEO of MapleX Naturals I lead our brand and engagement strategies across digital platforms. I am also partnered with a strong team that has a passion for new products and natural ingredients, as we have done by introducing Maple Syrup with its antioxidant properties as a key ingredient in our products. It helps to increase skin hydration, reduces fine lines, and improve skin tone. And, no it does not in any way cause our Castile soaps to smell like Maple Syrup.
This ingredient actively works wonders behind the scenes to make your skin soft and moisturized without you even noticing.
What's your business and who are your customers?
MAPLEX NATURALS INC. was born from the idea of taking something that already exists and transforming it through innovation and creativity. From the genesis of that idea, we set out to formulate our Castile soaps with a simple goal in mind; customers are to enjoy these wonderful soaps as a staple in their personal care routines.
The result was exquisite body and hand Wash Castile soaps formulated with naturally derived vegetable oils. As a proud Canadian Company, we also wanted to add a distinct Canadian ingredient and a bit of Canadian heritage to augment the storied history of Castile Soaps.
After some research by our development team, we made an amazing discovery! As Canadians we are known worldwide for our love of Maple Syrup, and it has long been a part of our cultural fabric as a symbol of unity and Canadian pride. We were therefore delighted to discover that Maple Syrup has properties that could slow the breakdown of elastin in the skin.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Our biggest accomplishment was convincing a larger retail partner to distribute and introduce our products nationally across Canada.
New strategic partnerships we have created will broaden our distribution, introduce hemp infused topicals and other new products to market.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Patience. It takes time for others to be convinced that your product is great as you say it is. You have to be prepared to put the work in for others to see your vision.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
1. Do not start if you have convinced yourself you will be successful overnight.
2. Be prepared that it will consume 24 hours of your day every day.
3. There will be many times where you question if you made the right decision.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Being an entrepreneur is not for everyone. Use the time you have in your career to understand how businesses operate; such as success, failure and financial resources.
There is no such thing as a CEO in your own business. Be prepared to learn every aspect of your business before you start bringing on employees or partners.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://maplexnaturals.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maplexnaturals/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.