Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Grant Gappelberg, Co-CEO of Hampton Chocolate Factory, located in Tampa, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Hampton Chocolate Factory is our sweet business (literally, lol). Our customers are basically everyone because who doesn't like chocolate?
Tell us about yourself
I started at the young age of 11 as I was fortunate enough to grow up in the wonderful world of chocolate. My passion for it grew over the years as I saw people rally behind our products and brand. I get really excited when people show their enthusiasm and delight in our products!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Opening up this store in Sparkman Wharf alongside my brother is my biggest accomplishment. Not only is this the stand-alone flagship, but it's a decadent dessert destination that brings in people from all over the world!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The biggest challenge of being a business owner is time management. From time to time, I forget that I'm 19 and need to take time off work to participate in other activities. Over the past few months, I have learned the value of this, especially after my trip to Belgium, where I did a ton of market research.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Conceive-Believe-Achieve. This three-word phrase has been passed on to me, and I can now say it works. The first step to starting is conceiving and coming up with the idea. Once you know what you want to start, you have to believe and believe with certainty that it will succeed. The last step to achieve this stage is when you execute. Although this is the hardest thing to do, If you have done the first two with enough energy, this should happen on its own.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://hamptonchocolatefactory.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hampton.chocolate.factory/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hamptonchocolatefactory/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-gappelberg-60a138181/
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.