Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Gabrielle Casara Pellin, founder of Padoca Cuisine, located in Montreal, QC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We started as a Brazilian bakery in the heart of Montreal, serving our Brazilian community, and we grew and evolved into a frozen food company, serving many families, mostly within the Quebec region.
Tell us about yourself
I am Gabi, I am Brazilian (born and raised), and I have always been passionate about food. When I arrived in Montreal, I realized how there was not enough information about the Brazilian culture (especially Brazilian food!!). I wanted to show or introduce my Canadian friends to my country's great food and culture, and I had nowhere to take them, so I decided to open "the" place. I have been changing my purpose or offer a couple of times during my path, but now what really motivates me is knowing that we can make a difference in the food industry and make people's lives simpler.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
To have become a reference in the Brazilian culture/food in Montreal and to have been able to make my company survive and grow through the various (other) challenges COVID times brought.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Wow, so many challenges. I would say: manage a team and manage cash flow. Both are essentials to a business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
I wanna share three tips that are essential in any moment of the business, but if you master them during the first years, you will grow faster and save a lot of energy:
- Have a cash flow and know how to manage it.
- Learn how to increase your sales and how to bring new clients.
- Have efficient processes.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
To the new entrepreneurs: Don't forget to enjoy the path and have fun!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://padocacuisine.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/padocacuisine/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/padocacuisine/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/padocacuisine/
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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