Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Gabriela Flores, Founder of Tienda Movil, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Tienda Movil is a Latin American grocery store located in Toronto. My customers are mixed of Canadians and Latin American people.
Tell us about yourself
I lost my job when the pandemic started, and schools were closed. I needed a job that would allow me to bring my son, as I didn't have anybody to leave him with. He has autism, so finding someone that has experience working with kids with autism is not easy. My mom had her business in Leamington, Ontario, and suggested doing the same in Toronto.
I noticed that Latin American stores in Toronto were not delivering, so that was the perfect time and opportunity to start my business. I began to sell on social media pages. Then, eventually, I hired someone to build an e-commerce website for me. It was a very successful idea!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Opening a front store, hiring people, and, most importantly, inspiring others.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Make time to spend with my son. A new business requires a lot of our time, and sometimes I miss doing some activities with my teenager. I know this will not be like that forever, but the first years are hard.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Many community centers offer programs on how to start a business. Take them! Most are free!
- Ask for professional help, especially in accounting.
- Apply for grants. You might not get them right away, but don't give up!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.tiendamovil.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tiendamovilcanada/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiendamovilcanada/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.