Kevin Tang on the Challenges of Drinks Startups

EP 252 - We talk to Kevin - Founder of artisan iced tea brand
Kaytea - about the reality of raising money, challenges dealing
with product buyers and the pain of fighting for shelf space in a
crowded market. We ask Kevin why he started an ice tea brand, his
experience launching the business during COVID and why he values
having a mentor.


Kevin also tells us why he thinks people being 'too busy to reply
to emails' qualifies for the big bin of bullshit.


Chapters:


00:00 Welcome to BWB


00:59 Challenges in Food and Beverage


05:01 Exploring the Journey of Starting a Business


06:29 Deep Dive into the Tea Industry and Market


08:03 The Story Behind KAYTEA


10:39 Realities of the Beverage Market


18:09 Fundraising and Distribution Challenges


18:47 Intrusive Emails and Shareholders


19:30 Power of Being a Shareholder


19:47 Biggest Business Mistakes and Lessons


20:22 Challenges of Natural Product Manufacturing


22:01 Importance of Having a Business Mentor


23:39 Art of Marketing and Its Challenges


25:17 Role of Mentors in Business Success


32:31 Impact of Cancel Culture on Business


33:25 Quickfire Round: Getting to Know Kevin


37:35 30 Second Pitch: Kaytea


38:10 Closing Remarks


Kevin's recommendations:


The Grocer (magazine)


The Economist (magazine)


Hungry (podcast)


Brand Growth Heroes (podcast)


Zoe (podcast)


How I Built This (podcast)


FKJ (musician)


businesswithoutbullshit.me


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If you'd like to be on the show, get in contact -
mail@businesswithoutbullshit.me


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