Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ioritz Blanco Echalecu, Founder of Zepeim LLC, located in Beverly Hills, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
At Zepeim, we import and distribute Non-Alcoholic Wines & Spirits to cater to the increasing demand for high-quality non-alcoholic beverages in society.
Tell us about yourself
I first thought of starting a non-alcoholic wine online shop for pregnant women so that they could have an interesting beverage alternative for the time they couldn't drink alcohol. Later on, we noticed that there is a much bigger group in society that doesn't drink alcohol for so many different reasons, so we decided to shift our activity and started importing and distributing NA wines, so we could make them available in the entire US for all type of customers, retail (shops, hotels, restaurants, airlines, etc.) and end customers (pregnant women, health-conscious individuals, religious communities, etc.).
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
To be able to make a difference in people's lives. First, in the sober community, who can enrich their meals and social experiences by enjoying a healthy alternative without the negative consequences of alcohol. Second, to be able to create jobs and feel like an active part of the engine of the society.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Not being able to disconnect from work. You always have to be available in case some customers need any assistance, a shipping that you are expecting is experiencing some issues, or there is an urgent document that needs to be sent.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Patience, perseverance, and a good product/service.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://zepeim.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064158244506
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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