Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kirk Reynolds, CEO of Sobreo, located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Our business is Sobreo, an ultra-premium mixer brand that makes California Cocktails, a high-quality, great-tasting cocktail that can be made with or without alcohol. Our customers are primarily bars and restaurants, but we also have a growing retail and direct-to-consumer business. Our target demographic is anyone who enjoys quality cocktails and values health and sustainability. We cater to a range of dietary needs and preferences, including those who prefer non-alcoholic options, lower-calorie options, and organic ingredients. We also prioritize sustainability, using only the finest organic and natural ingredients and utilizing environmentally-friendly packaging.
Tell us about yourself
I first got into this business when my Doctor told me, "you don't have a drinking problem; you have a mixer problem," because I like to drink Jack Daniels and Coke, but the sugar in the Coke had almost made me diabetic.
I realized that there was a gap in the market for high-quality mixers made with organic and natural ingredients, and I decided to start Sobreo. I wanted to create a product that would taste not only great but also be good for people's health and the planet. At Sobreo, we are committed to using only the finest organic ingredients and sustainable practices to create our mixers.
What motivates me each day is the knowledge that we are providing customers with a healthier and more sustainable option for their cocktails. I am passionate about creating products that not only taste great but also align with our values of inclusivity, sustainability, and health. Seeing our customers enjoy our mixers and knowing that we are making a positive impact on the world is what keeps me motivated and excited to come to work each day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
As a business owner, my biggest accomplishment has been building a team of talented and dedicated individuals who are passionate about our mission and work tirelessly to deliver high-quality products and services to our customers. I am proud of the culture we have created at our company, one that values collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. Seeing our team members grow and succeed both personally and professionally is truly rewarding and inspiring to me. Additionally, I am proud of the impact our business has had on our customers, providing them with solutions that help them succeed in their own endeavors.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is the weight of responsibility that you carry. As a CEO, you are ultimately responsible for the success or failure of the company, and the decisions you make can have a significant impact on the lives of your employees and customers. This can create a lot of pressure and stress, and it can be challenging to find a work-life balance when so much is at stake. Additionally, there are always unexpected challenges and setbacks that arise when running a business, and you need to be able to adapt and pivot quickly to keep the company moving forward.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Research and plan: Before starting a business, it's important to do thorough research and planning. This includes conducting market research, creating a business plan, and identifying your target audience and competitors. Also, when choosing a co-creator or co-founder, find someone with a unified vision but a different skill set, preferably one that you don't have, that will make your business stronger as they will have a vested interest versus hiring for the position.
- Focus on your customers: Your customers are the lifeblood of your business, so it's important to prioritize their needs and wants. Make sure you understand their pain points, communicate with them regularly, and provide excellent customer service.
- Be adaptable and flexible: Running a business can be unpredictable, so it's important to be adaptable and flexible. This means being open to change, staying on top of industry trends, and being willing to pivot your business strategy when necessary. Additionally, it's important to stay positive and persistent even when faced with challenges or setbacks.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://sobreo.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mixsobreo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mixsobreo/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mixsobreo/
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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