Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Glenn Knowles, owner of Gem Chocolates, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Gem Chocolates, an artisanal chocolate shop. Everything is handmade with natural ingredients. We create chocolates that are as creative and colourful as they are flavour-packed.
Tell us about yourself
After a long career in the finance/investment industry, I chose a renaissance path to create a business that was more soul-fulfilling and creative. This 180-degree shift to essentially become a self-taught chocolatier and entering the retail sector was
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
After ten years, I can say that each year (even during the pandemic), my business has grown and has flourished. This comes from an incredible time commitment to the business, creative flexibility, financial acumen, keen pleasure in doing what I do. I couldn't have done this when my children were young, and I'm proud to have built a quality brand.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
As a start-up business, the biggest challenge is often brand awareness and profile. This was challenging and took longer than expected. Without deep pockets for expensive advertising or the use of a publicist, I chose the route of customer referral, which ultimately is the best form of advertising. This allowed for gradual growth while maintaining quality standards.
Perhaps the biggest challenge is living your business 24/7...there is no real downtime. Your mind is constantly looking for innovative, creative ideas for products, with the constant pressure of cash flow commitments.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do not underestimate the time commitment.
- Ensure you have sufficient working capital.
- Plan your lease space and equipment with at least a 5-year growth cycle in mind.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://gemchocolates.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GemChocolates/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gemchocolates/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/gemchocolates
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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