Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alistair Knox, owner of Arms Reach Bistro & InGrain Pastificio, both located at Deep Cove, BC, Canada.
Tell us all about your business...
InGrain Pastificio is a local manufacturer of perhaps the BEST slow-dried, super traditional pasta available anywhere. We take inspiration from the quality of other artisanal producers such as Martelli Pastificio, Rummo or Rustichella d'Abruzzo. Unlike these beautiful Italian producers that rely on Canadian Durum semolina, we don't have to ship these grains halfway around the world to begin production. Unlike these boutique producers of slow-dried Italian pasta, we have access to some of the highest quality water available anywhere on the planet. Support a smaller footprint and a local producer with a better product than what is currently available in your local grocery store.
What's your background and motivation to grow as a solopreneur?
30+ years of Food & Beverage work combined with a thirst for exploring the world of wine led us to a vacation in Sicily 15 years ago, where we were treated to a visit to a local Pastificio. We were surprised to hear that they were delighted to use Canadian grains to manufacture their traditional pasta and then export their product to the rest of the EU and around the world.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Training, educating, and watching co-workers succeed at their life challenges. It works for me too!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a solopreneur?
"Pivots" Recent events have taken their toll on many businesses, and we have been fortunate to employ a team that has worked hard to reduce the challenges and impacts of our new business environment.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
3 P's How are you impacting the planet, people, and pocketbook, and will it be worth it?
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Get it done... today.
Where can people find you?
Daily Specials
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.