Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Randy Lum, The General Public restaurant owner located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
Tell us all about your business...
We are one of the creators of innovative sushi...The Eatery, the first of its kind...has transformed the sushi experience since 1998. The General Public, serving the hip Eastside of Vancouver, has mimicked the experience. Not only is the food an instant hit with Japanese infusion...we've combined it with the experience. There's no other place like it...
What's your background and motivation to grow as a solopreneur?
We all have crazy ideas...but to put them to use is another level. I've always been whacky and whimsical...so I figure why not add a Japanese fusion with food and flair. Not just art, but combining music and lifestyle with food can be a wonderful experience. People, food, music, life(style)…what can be more motivating????
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Hmmm...I'd say having an excellent staff both in the front and back end who employ and deliver "the experience" that our customers enjoy. It is a "people" business, so I feel we've always put a great team together over the two decades to serve our beautiful guests. Creating a "niche" market to cater to "the general public" is not particularly easy. And also, staying off the radar...aka, all these social media...and continuing to be one of the busier restaurants is an incredible milestone.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a solopreneur?
The hours...but they say, if you love something you do, then you don't count the hours...contradictory? Also, find the "right" people for your establishment. We are such a "people" business. Oh, did I mention COVID? Hahaha...
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Love and believe in what you do and do it better than anyone else...
- Don't believe in all the hype...social media is not your end-all; be all in business...word of mouth is more vital than any other medium...
- Invest in your staff "people" and reinvest in your business...you always have to stay current but "Be Yourself"!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Being a Solopreneur has its perks...but it can be a lonely world. It's nice to share experiences and give others a boost...I love small businesses. It's personable, and all small business owners have their reasons to do their "Own Thing"! But if I can share my experience...All I can say is you better love what you do. Its true...no one will care more about your business than yourself. And when people see that...they want to support it. Both internally and externally. I love my independence, but I love the return I get when I see results. I also love the fact that you can control your own "creativeness" and lead the industry. Nice to have imitators and followers...and I can't stand "franchises." It's just damn nice to be MYSELF.
Where can people find you?
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.