Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jim Cannell, President of Jim's Organic Coffee, located in West Wareham, MA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We're an all-organic coffee company. We roast, pack, and ship exceptional organic coffee. Our customers are caring cafes, bakeries, specialty shops, and natural foods stores. In addition to caring coffee lovers who value great coffee first and appreciate the value of organics.
Tell us about yourself
I'd been in the coffee importing/trading business previously. In 1992 I left to 'move to the country' and start an all-organic roaster. At that time, no one was really doing organics, so essentially I was the first to at least roast all-organic. What motivates me is to continue to move the company forward for the sake of our employees, customers, and the product. We all deserve it. This means selecting great coffee and delivering exceptional cups of coffee time after time. That simple act (tasting and enjoying exceptional coffee) is what certainly brings me joy. More so, knowing our customers are enjoying this perfect coffee moment is what motivates us.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Aside from the good work we've done with our charity partners in Guatemala, it would be seeing our long-time staff grow and thrive and benefit from working here at Jim's.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Too much e-mail! But seriously, it's all good. We're in a wonderful industry - the crossroads of organic and specialty food - with wonderful people in it who, for the most part, have their hearts in the right place and just want to move the needle forward on making the world a better place.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
I'd say it's more challenging today than when I started, mostly because of the amount of capital one needs for a start-up. So make sure your business is aligned with your capital access. Then put the product first. Make it right. Lastly, keep your sense of humor.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.jimsorganiccoffee.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jimsorganiccoffee/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimsorganiccoffee/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jim's-organic-coffee/
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.