Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ina Henderson, co-founder of FOODSTIKS Compostable Wood Cutlery, located in St. Petersburg, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
FOODSTIKS is a Florida-based eco-friendly company that offers a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic cutlery. We cater to everybody that likes the convenience and cleanliness of single-use cutlery but also cares about the future of our planet. We have business customers from caterers to restaurants to universities and recently started selling a smaller retail pack on Target.com that is ideal for BBQs, birthday parties, your work lunch, or those nights where you just don't feel like doing the dishes.
Tell us about yourself
I started FOODSTIKS together with my husband, Jim. Jim has been working with different wood products for most of his professional life. I used to manage developmental projects in Central America, one of which included a major reforestation project. We both cherish the versatility and sustainability of wood as a material. Seeing the devastating impacts plastic waste has on our environment, we saw the need to offer an alternative that works for both the customer and our planet.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
To still have a business two years into a pandemic :) We also got some awards for innovation, which we are very proud of!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
To start a big idea with a small team and limited budget! There is a lot of potentials, but you can't do it all at once. Pace yourself, focus, and stick with the plan.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Study your market and your product extensively and learn about all the ins and outs and the potential pitfalls.
- Plan your budget. Your cash flow is essential!
- Don't give up! There will be days where you doubt your decision to start the business. There will be better days, and you won't look back.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://foodstiks.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodcutlery
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodstiks/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/foodstiks/
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.
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