Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Luis Ramallo, Owner of ALIEN FRESH JERKY, located in Baker, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is retail/wholesale. My customers are locals and tourists who enjoy good fresh beef jerky and aliens/ UFO lovers who believe like we do in extraterrestrials and live from other planets or galaxies visiting our planet.
Tell us about yourself
I am an immigrant that believes in the American dream and in the opportunities this country gives everybody; no matter how low you can be in your life, there is always an opportunity to make progress and come up. What got me started in this business was exactly that; my own electrical business was very slow. I have mortgage payments, a wife, three kids to feed, no job, and very little money; you get very motivated in that situation. Believe me; you don't need to be rich to start your own business. Someone will give you a hand always. I started with a roadside table, a $10 tent from Walmart, in 2000 by the side of Road 93 North in Lincoln county near AREA 51.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is that with the help of my own family, we created a successful business that employs about 15 employees directly at the store but a lot more indirectly with over 1100 stores reselling our main product ALIEN FRESH JERKY and also we created a destination in Baker CA for travelers. Along with a roadside attraction, an ALIEN COLONY ON EARTH with four buildings completed and one under construction, the main building, a UFO.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing as a business owner is to start with no capital, no money, no name, and nobody knows your product; you need to succeed. You and your family depend on it. Financing is the number 2 obstacle.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
My best advice to start a new business is first to believe in yourself, the "I CAN DO IT" attitude, and be positive. The second is to find a product that can attract all people - kids, adults, and everybody. Then location is extremely important to find a good place and a good non-offensive name for your store. A name is absolutely important for recognition.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Yes, there are a lot of "lenders" out on the market that promise money, be very careful with the small letters on the contract. When those lenders ask for any money IN FRONT to get you a loan, they know we are desperate. Your money normally goes for hidden fees for "their work to get you the loan you are looking for" be very careful with those alligators.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.alienfreshjerky.com/
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3a0KxxD
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alienfreshjerky/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.