Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Shane Takabayashi, Co-Founder and CEO of KUMU Beverage Company, LLC., located in Laguna Beach, CA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

KUMU BevCo is a better-for-you line of RTD beverages enriched with functional ingredients to help optimize the day and to fit a healthy, active lifestyle! Crafted with cleaner ingredients that join functionality and flavor without sacrificing quality. Utilizing the clean power of Organic Green Tea, Nootropics, Adaptogens, BCAA's, Vitamin C, Vitamin B, and more. We serve our customers nationally through various direct-to-consumer channels and traditional brick-and-mortar with nearly 300 retailers in select states like California, Hawaii, and Texas, USA.

Tell us about yourself

KUMU BevCo was fueled by purpose, with purposeful intention. Growing up in the food manufacturing space, my brother and I knew that there was a much higher demand for cleaner products than what was already on the shelf. We grew tired of the lack of cleaner options. Together we sought out strategic partners and investors to help us commercialize our first line of clean, ready-to-drink beverages that people now love and trust as part of their daily routine.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

As a new company, bootstrapping has been the name of the game for us. We have to appreciate the small wins. Each new account(big or small) is a big accomplishment for us. However, I'd have to say landing our first 100 retailers was an important milestone for the brand.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

There will almost always be a problem to solve - you have to stay consistent. Task delegation and managing priorities are always non-negotiable.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Lead with purpose. A strong company culture of purpose yields a strong sense of belonging, which will translate to effective leadership and will sustain your team through the inevitable ups and downs of business.
  2. Don't get stuck in the "hype" of starting a business that you never do any real work. Keep your head down and put in the time.
  3. Decisions. Making the right business decisions, whether it's hiring a new employee, making a big purchase, going into a new partnership, etc. The best way to navigate this is to create a strong Board of Advisors to help you when you don't have all the answers.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

No matter what industry you're in, there will inevitably be a make-it or break-it moment where you'll have to go ALL-IN. If you truly believe in your heart of hearts that you'll be successful, then there is no other option. Fail fast, learn, and adapt as you scale.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://kumudrinks.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drinkkumu
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kumuenergy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-takabayashi-aa345020b/

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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