Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with David Spadafora, founder, and CEO of Bert's Foods, located in Woodbridge, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Bert's Foods has developed a healthy crunchy vegetable snack called Oh My Okra. Oh My Okra contains only three simple ingredients whole okra pieces, expeller pressed sunflower oil and a pinch of sea salt. We are non-GMO, keto-friendly, vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, and high in fiber.
We use a technology called vacuum dehydration which allows us to cook at a very low temperature maintaining over 80% of the nutrients in our okra. Our target market is Canadians who are looking for healthier snacking alternatives with no additives and the highest quality ingredients.
Tell us about yourself
The inspiration behind our company is Umberto (Bert), father and father-in-law to the founders of Bert's Foods. They passed away in 2005 from a long-term battle with type 2 diabetes. Our goal is to provide health-conscious, quality products that will ensure the faith and loyalty of their consumers. We honour Bert's memory by building a company based on Honesty and Integrity…These are two of his best qualities.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Our biggest accomplishment has been our listings in some of the most prestigious health food stores across Canada. Most health food stores have strict guidelines regarding the products and their ingredients, so to be listed in these stores has been a huge win for our brand.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Learning how to be patient is key to building a business and a brand. Most people think that success happens overnight. They don't realize the amount of blood, sweat, and tears that go into building a successful business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Build your foundation: Network, network, network.
- Always plan for two steps forward and 1 step back: You will come across many obstacles; celebrate the little wins but plan for the future.
- Enjoy the ride: You get to experience the feeling of starting your first business only once; However, it may be hard, it is an exciting time!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
We are excited to announce that we will be launching new delicious products this year, so stay tuned!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.ohmyokra.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ohmyokra/
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.