Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Francis Lo, co-founder and sales director of Yoso, from Cambridge, Ontario, Canada.
Tell us all about your business...
100% Plant-Based Cultured Food Developer and Manufacturer.
What's your background and motivation to grow as a solopreneur?
My elder brother (Erik) and I came from a family business of plant-based beverage manufacturing in Hong Kong in 1940. We were eager to experience what it's like to be our grandfather and our father. I was also tired of 9 years of greasy foods in boarding school and college campus cafeteria. In my last year in college, I came across a new product development competition called Project Soy at the University of Guelph. That was the trigger point. We entered the competition with the first product idea, and we have never looked back since! What motivates us each day: We believe in ourselves. We want to prove that we can make an impact. We never give up!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
To broaden the offering of plant-based foods with good taste and convenience. We have a great record of first to market products in Canada. We are very proud of it.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a solopreneur?
To continue pursuing our vision under challenging circumstances.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Be cheerful no matter what happens because opportunities don't come in your way when you are negative. Be consistent with your daily effort. Surround yourself with great people that you trust and see eye-to-eye with our vision.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Keep trying! Trying is learning!
Where can people find you?
Website: https://www.yoso.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enjoyyoso/
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.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.