Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Steven Walker of Sunset on Salt Spring, located in Salt Spring Island, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Our business is the making and selling of homemade jams and jellies we also have taken on the purchasing of certified organic spices from around the world and package them for retail. Our customers are mostly retail supermarkets and specialty stores. We also have a farm stand on our property here on Salt Spring Island. Pre-COVID we sold the bulk of our products at farmers' markets and craft fairs but when all of those were closed down we knew we had to reinvent ourselves to survive. This reached out to retail businesses that were interested in the home make jam at a fair price.
Tell us about yourself
My mom has always had a passion for making preserves she had a good business selling at craft fairs etc. but as mentioned when COVID hit I came on board to help get our product into retail. Selling into retail required a real dedication to customer service, problem-solving, and a willingness to think outside the box. As far as I’m concerned no sale is ever final.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would have to say that my biggest accomplishment is being able to take on an established business and reinventing it to meet the challenges and changes that face the world today.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Perhaps it’s only due to COVID but I would have to say that the hardest part of my job is ensuring we are running at a 98%plus fill rate. Keeping everything stocked has been a real challenge. Getting jars, labels, and certified organic fruit after last summer's massive crop failure due to the heatwave. There are several components to keeping a production line running.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First and foremost you have to love what you do. Be proud of your product, and be open and willing to take critical feedback.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Be impeccable with your word, don’t take things personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best.
Where can people find you and your business?
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3hpa9Eo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunsetonsaltspring/
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.
