In this episode of Sipping Success, host Casey Haakinson chats with Levent Tuysuzoglu, the founder and CEO of Hazelicious, about his mission to elevate hazelnuts as a staple in non-dairy alternatives, nut butters, and snacks. Levent discusses his unique transition from a career in finance to creating a premium plant-based product brand inspired by his family's hazelnut farm in Turkey. He candidly shares the challenges Hazelicious faced during COVID-19 and how they overcame supply chain issues and a manufacturing partnership change.
Key Topics Discussed:
- 1:00 Min - Passion for Hazelnuts: Levent transitioned from a career in finance to founding Hazelicious, inspired by his family’s hazelnut farm in Turkey.
- 4:00 Min - Supply Chain Challenges: He explains how Hazelicious navigated ingredient supply chain disruptions and a co-manufacturer change during the pandemic.
- 7:00 Min - Unique Positioning: The company focuses on high-quality hazelnut milk and butters that fill a gap in the market, offering dairy-like textures.
- 10:00 Min - Growth Strategy: Hazelicious prioritizes gross margins while scaling up revenue, avoiding the pitfalls of selling at a loss for market share.
- 16:00 Min - Advice to Founders: Levent encourages young entrepreneurs to pursue their passions early and embrace calculated risks.
Conclusion:
From leveraging his family's legacy in hazelnut farming to navigating the unpredictable challenges posed by the pandemic, Levent's unwavering commitment to quality and innovation has set Hazelicious apart in the competitive plant-based product market. His emphasis on maintaining strong gross margins while growing revenue offers valuable insights to entrepreneurs seeking sustainable success. As we close this episode of Sipping Success, we invite you to explore how Hazelicious is redefining the hazelnut experience and learn more about scaling your beverage brand to new heights.
