Small Batch, Artisan Spirits

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Steven Delfino, Founder of Loose Toque, located in Milton, ON, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We are part of the Canadian micro-distillery industry - a growing market with an estimated 170 micro-distillers across Canada. We sell award-winning artisan spirits with a focus on Canadian Rye Whisky and Vodka. Our customers are discerning clients looking for unique, pure, environmentally friendly products. We pride ourselves on our product purity and being Made FROM Canada.

Tell us about yourself

I have been in marketing my entire career and was always intrigued and excited by the spirit industry. It has been fun watching celebrity-endorsed products like Ryan Reynolds Gin or Kardashian tequila change the landscape. Canada has such a rich history in whisky and a reputation for outdoors and purity, so we wanted to make a product focused on these attributes. It all started with a meeting with an upstart micro-distillery, LastStaw distillery, in Vaughan, Ontario. New kids on the block and full of passion, knowledge, and a growing shelf of awards. Finding such an amazing partner set us on our way.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The field is crowded and dominated by large distilleries and government-run retail outlets. Getting our product and message out took a lot of effort, but our brand has really found its following. During the process, it often feels like you are talking and no one is listening.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

It’s not an 8-hour scheduled work day. It’s a 24-hour day-as-needed proposition. If you are not passionate about your product and brand, it’s not sustainable. Make sure you love what you do.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Talk to everyone that knows more than you. Every day is a learning opportunity.
Listen to your potential clients. They know what they need better than you do.
Love what you do. If you are not passionate about your product or your brand, no one else will be.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.loosetoque.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loose_toque/

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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