asked Libby Gibson (pictured above) of Piper Private Equity to come up with 5 Things to Consider when going for private equity. Piper have worked with Boden, Bottlegreen, Las Iguanas, and many other brands. For more on their background and approach: www.piperprivateequity.com
Thank you, Libby.
Libby's 5 questions for you are:
1) Do you like the people? Firstly and most importantly, you need to ask yourself if you like the people. I describe it as like a marriage - they are going to be an integral part of your business for the next 3-5 years, so the right chemistry is vital.
Read More
John Vincent, co-founder of Leon Restaurants, suggested I write a blog. Thanks, John.
John has started a new food business. I got invited along to check it out.
Freshly toasted spelt flatbreads with a variety of toppings. Inexpensive.
Read More
Elina and her dough (source: The Microloan Foundation)
Elina's Backroom Bakery
Twice a week the small hut at the back of Elina Soko’s one bedroom mud brick house is transformed into a bakery, using only a pile of hot coals on the floor.
Read More
I work with founder-led companies. Innocent, Rude Health, Graham & Green, and Jamsmith, wonderful artisan jam made in the Yorkshire Dales.
The values and beliefs of the founders influence the way these companies think about and do business. They are communicated through branding and packaging.
I've also just worked with an individual client looking at his personal 'brand' and how he comes across to clients.
Read More
I bought this in my Waitrose supermarket today. Minimalist mince packaging, it's like an inflated pillow of film with the mince inside (packaged in a protective atmosphere). This new packaging uses 50% less plastic than the previous version.
Well done, Waitrose. Now I don't have to throw away rigid plastic meat packaging, which goes straight to landfill and makes me feel guilty. Waitrose save money on packaging, I have less waste.
Win win.
Read More