Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with James Barry, Founder, and CEO of Castle Hill Foods, Inc., located in Portland, OR, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a functional food company. Our first product line is Pluck, an organ-based seasoning that replaces salt and pepper embraces the natural umami taste of organ meat, and turns everything it's applied into an emphatically delicious, nutrient-rich superfood. We call it the gateway to getting Mother Nature's vitamin into your diet. It's so easy to add to your meals, and it makes everything taste even better!
Our focus at the moment is on customers that already understand the value of organ meats. Paleo, Keto, Carnivore, Ancestral eaters, those trying to get pregnant, are pregnant or new parents wanting to easily get the most nutrient-dense foods into their children's diet.
Tell us about yourself
I'm on a mission to help people with their health. I've been a professional chef for over 16 years. I previously owned a healthy prepared meal delivery service in Los Angeles that I sold in 2015. I started Pluck in January of 2021 to make organ meats taste delicious, not require any sourcing or culinary knowledge, be as easy as salting your food, and not require a new habit. I believe organ meats can save the world. Over 92% of Americans are nutrient-deficient. When we don't feel good, we tend not to treat others well. Organ meats supply the nutrients we need and help us to feel better, so we treat those around us better.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We launched a brand new food product during a pandemic and had to get creative in how we presented the product to customers that didn't have the ability to taste it. I'd say the biggest accomplishment is that despite these challenges, we've seen growth every month since launching. The word is getting out there that the product is delicious, and people are responding!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I'm new to DTC eCommerce. The learning curve is wide. The two hardest things are dealing with supply chain delays and navigating the different communication styles of a very established industry.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Every day is a chance to learn, be grateful, and grow.
- Know your mission. Be in it for more than just making money. How are you contributing to the greater good?
- Get investors. Being able to pay yourself from the beginning greatly helps to keep you positive during the challenging times....and there are lots of challenging times.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I love what I do. I love helping people. It's amazing taking an idea and watching it grow into something that people around the world respond to positively.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://eatpluck.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eatpluck
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatpluck/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChefJamesBarry
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-barry-2149113b/
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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