9 July 2022 06:00 am Views - 799
What inspired you to start your business?
There is a gap in the market for European flavors and there is a huge community of ‘foodies’ here.
What was the journey like, from the start to building the business up to where it is right now?
I feel like the ‘business’ is always changing, for me it is about moving with the momentum, it’s a lot about exposure and word of mouth. There is a lot more for the business to build on, however right now with the economic crisis Sri Lanka is facing, I feel it’s time for a little pause.
What were the hardships you faced as an entrepreneur and what was the toughest one yet?
Time is not your friend someone said, wise words indeed. Hardships are not having everything to complete a product. Example caramelized sugar, black salt or orange blossom flowers would be freely available in London, but difficult to source in Sri Lanka. These seem small but make all the difference when you’re in a competitive field of consumption, the consumer is always hungry for more, for something different, and for the next new thing. Hence little differences set you apart. Owing to the current prevailing economic crisis, and import restrictions in place and price issues, the hardest decision l have had to make is to pause the business at this time and re-evaluate the future.
The pandemic globally seemed to boost all home bakers as word of mouth and social media built awareness. People’s favorite treats were either sold out at shops or restaurants and they needed alternative sources. This was one of the positives to take from this unprecedented period.
What motivates you to wake up in the morning and do what you do on daily basis?
There is always a new food trend a culture to re-interpret, a palate to refine and re-educate yourself on, it’s also food science there is so much to learn. We are still learning about the everyday things we put in our bodies like coffee and its benefits, dried fruits like dates, and so on. The fact that l can build a food brand that will optimize food seen as ‘treats’ to
What separates your brand from other competing brands?
The artisan effect of every item being handmade and finished, the quality of ingredients, the definite assurance that this product looks, tastes, feels and is presented with great care and attention.
What is your definition of the word success?
Going to sleep knowing you have a plan A and B, and your clock is ticking on.
When did you discover your passion for your business?
Having grown-up in the great multicultural city of London, l was constantly exposed
What advice would you give other start-ups?
Believe in yourself, especially if you have a passion and you are good at it. As Nike says, “Just do it!” On the other hand, if you change your mind and have to make a critical decision that is okay too, we are allowed to have many different paths and to keep learning and growing.