From corporate finance to frozen dessert innovator, this episode explores the journey of Nicole Cardone, co-founder of Fruitful Brands, including Sorbabes and Fudgy Pop. Nicole shares her knowledge of entrepreneurship, sparked by a serendipitous encounter with overripe peaches at a farmers market. With a blend of adventurous spirit and business acumen, she and her co-founder, Chef Deborah Gorman, embarked on a mission to take on the frozen dessert category.
Discover the highs and lows of building a brand from scratch, from selling hand-packed mason jars at local markets to navigating a strategic partnership with a global ice cream manufacturer. Nicole candidly discusses the challenges of scaling a business while maintaining independence, including the pivotal decision to part ways with their corporate partner and weather the storm of COVID-19 disruptions.
In this interview-style podcast with Gary Nowacki, learn how Sorbabes bounced back from adversity, leveraging their experience to launch new brands and expand to nationwide distribution. Nicole offers advice from her hands-on experience into the intricacies of product innovation in the frozen dessert industry and the importance of strategic partnerships in driving growth. Watch this episode to gain entrepreneurial wisdom, actionable advice, and a glimpse into the innovative world of Fruitful Brands.
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Takeaways
Brewing Innovation and Giving Back
Balancing Nature and Business: The Organic CEO’s Insights
Building a CPG Community One Startup at a Time
Growing CPG with Co-Mans & Omnichannel Sales
Can AI Predict the Next Big CPG Trend?
Creating Everyday Wonders
The Secret to Supplier-Driven Sustainability
Flavor First Beats Big CPG
Treat Your Co-Mans like You Treat Your Investors
If You Cant Compete on Price, Compete on Consumer Experience
Retail Secrets from Aldi, Wegmans, and other Leaders
The Only Failure is Not Trying
Consumers Want a Meat-Like Experience
Accelerate Innovation by Hiring Mission-Aligned People
The Food Industry is on Fire!
Innovating with Co-Mans
Timing in Innovation is Everything
The New Food World Order
Taste and Price Rule the World
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