Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Douglas Steele, Owner of Fuzion Coffee Company, located in Lyndonville, VT, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Fuzion Coffee Company roasts-to-order the highest quality coffees from around the globe with a passion for providing the freshest cup of java every time. We are unique in that we offer not only whole bean and ground options, but we also offer 100% biodegradable K-Cups and pre-measured bags for restaurants/hotels. We are constantly crafting custom blends, including our new Outdoor Series designed for those that require fresh coffee anywhere from trail to the campfire!
Tell us about yourself
I am a passionate coffee drinker that felt there was an opportunity to make an even better coffee experience thru freshness, custom crafting, and exemplary service. I am driven to provide superior quality while also honing my craft by expanding my research and delivering the best products anywhere in the world.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I am proud to have taken an idea, developed it, and executed it to where I have created a truly loyal following that is continuing to grow my brand and act as ambassadors for Fuzion Coffee!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Owning a business requires commitment, consistency, and a great deal of patience. In this coffee world, you start out as a very small fish in a large pond, and a big thing to remember is not to try and boil an ocean. You need to define what your target market is and stay laser-focused on executing your plan against that target. Secondly, be very careful with spending and be very aware of what you are spending your money on. It is easy to buy tons of swag and ads, but without customers, this becomes an overhead that will drag you down. Lastly, packaging and shipping can absolutely make or break you. I learned very quickly that if you overspend on the packaging and shipping, your margin is terrible. Sharpen your pencil and research first before investing in this area; it will save you thousands!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Create a budget and stick to it.
- Research your vertical and see what others are doing to attract customers.
- Stay committed to your written business plan and have confidence in yourself to make your dream a reality!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Anything in life worth anything is hard. If you have a dream, attack it with all of your heart and soul, never give up even in the hard times, and most importantly, Have Fun!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.fuzioncoffeeco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fuzioncoffeecompany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fuzioncoffeecompany/
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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