In this brilliant episode, we explore the thrilling highs and challenging lows of the food industry with accomplished entrepreneur John Stapleton. He shares invaluable insights into the importance of solving consumer needs, scalability, and the resilience required for success in the food sector. His journey - encompassing roles in Mission Ventures, RegalFood Fund, and the Fisher Farms vertical farm project, amongst others - paints a vivid picture of the ambition and persistence needed in the food industry. We delve into the lessons learned from both success and failure while also touching on the critical factor of consumer insight in product innovation.
Today's episode kicks off a two-part series with John Stapleton emphasising the need for a product to solve a clear consumer demand. This is a lesson he has learned through his various entrepreneurial exploits, including Little Dish and the New Covent Garden Soup Company. His discussion on scalability and the resilience of entrepreneurs resonates deeply with anyone looking to carve out a niche in the dynamic food market.
John’s personal narrative of overcoming failure and self-doubt offers an honest reflection of the entrepreneurial spirit that eventually led to the success of Little Dish.
This enlightening conversation will undoubtedly leave you inspired and equipped with practical knowledge for facing the food industry's unique challenges.
Timestamps:
- 00:02:00 - John Stapleton's introduction to the food industry
- 00:05:20 - The role of consumer needs in product development
- 00:10:45 - John's involvement in Mission Ventures and food-sector investments
- 00:15:30 - Lucy Wager's personal insights into failure and success
- 00:20:50 - Expanding a UK business model to the US market
- 00:25:00 - Learning from business setbacks and failed ventures
- 00:30:25 - The unexpected success of carton packaging with New Covent Garden Soup
- 00:35:35 - The importance of product differentiation and consumer insight
- 00:40:40 - Gratitude towards sponsor Wager Ingredients
- 00:45:55 - Teaser of upcoming episodes and community engagement encouragement
Links and Resources:
John’s Website: www.johnstapleton.eu
John’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-stapleton-8471a219/
Website Link: https://ohforfoodssake.co.uk/
FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ohforfoodsake
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-for-food-s-sake/
You can follow us here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oh_forfoodssake/
For further support with industry coaching and facilitation from Amy, find her on Instagram or LinkedIn.
For industry consulting from Lucy, connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.
See you next time!