Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Maggie Sadowsky, Owner of 8 Track Foods, located in Batavia, IL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
No other product is like 8 Track Foods. Every decision is designed to conserve our resources and keep our tracks on the planet lighter. We are creating sustainable food (and packaging) ECO-system, not just a sustainable product. We started by reinventing canned beans with Premium sourced beans from US Organic farmers. 8 Track Foods targets the eco-conscious, whole food plant-based consumer by creating simple ways to incorporate beans into our diets.
Tell us about yourself
As a Food Scientist, product developer, and plant-protein expert, I've created hundreds of products in the grocery store. However, as a mom, I found a disconnect between what I made for work and what I fed my children. At home, I chose simple and locally grown foods. Drawing on a need for less processed foods, I knew I could make better products for the canned food aisle. Starting a canned bean company isn't easy, but I know it is just the beginning. We source US farm-grown Organic ingredients and pair them with a simple brining process to leave our beans tender. The result is a better-tasting can of beans!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
When I started 8 Track Foods, discussing food waste, sustainable packaging, or regenerative agriculture wasn't trendy. In the three years since we launched, we have pioneered the path toward a better pantry and sustainable packaging. The work we are doing is influencing the food industry. That is real change!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
We are a fledgling company, yet, we compete with prominent players. One of the biggest challenges is finding creative ways to share our mission and purpose on a minimal marketing budget. We appreciate the opportunity to share our story with Subkit.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Tune out the noise: Everyone will tell you why you can't, but follow your heart and create the space.
- Less is more: Don't waste your time on activities (or people) that aren't helping you achieve your goals.
- Don't strive for Perfection: You will make mistakes, learn from them and move forward.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://8trackfoods.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/8trackfoods
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/8_trackfoods/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/8-track-foods/
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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