Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with David Hinkle, Co-Founder of Pure Jerky Co, located in Austin, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Pure Jerky Co makes and sells ultra premium jerky and meat snacks. We source amazing US beef and ingredients to handcraft delicious meat snacks. We care about our communities. Pure sells direct to consumers, stores, offices, and hotels. HEB and The University of Texas Athletics are two of our big local customers.
Tell us about yourself
After two decades on Wall Street, I was ready to grow up and become an entrepreneur! My partner, Jim Tripi, is perhaps the best chef in the Austin area, and he agreed to let me help put his recipes on shelves. Particularly his snack creations sourcing high-quality US meats. I'm excited every day to grow our brand and ultimately have the firepower to make an impact in our community.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
To date, I'd say our biggest accomplishment is building a US Department of Agriculture-approved plant. The decision to produce our products and not use co-packers came with a lot of blood, sweat, and tears. Doing so during the pandemic made it even more interesting.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Timing. Behind every overnight success, you can find ten years of hard work. I'd like for things to move quicker; however, the process and journey to build a real, authentic brand sometimes needs to marinate longer!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Dive in. Once you get fully immersed and struggle for air, your odds of success climb tremendously.
- Create a longer runway for the business.
- Love your employees well. Take care of your team, and the ship will sail.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.purejerkyco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepurejerkyco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purejerkyco/
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/purejerkyco
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3aQrsik
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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