START-UP HUB
HOME > START-UP HUB
Mission & Purpose
We turn food start-up visions into market-ready realities. With decades of food industry experience, global manufacturing networks, and end-to-end expertise—from recipe development to retail launch—we guide you through every challenge. Your success is our mission. We're not just food consultants; we're your partners in building something extraordinary.
OUR 10-STEPS PROCESS
1. Defining the proposition
The foundation of your business plan starts here. We'll help you identify what makes your product unique, special, and differentiated. Why would consumers choose you over competitors? What's your vision? Can you deliver a compelling elevator pitch? Without a clear proposition and distinctive USPs, taking your product to market becomes nearly impossible. Get this right first.
2. Target market and consumer insights
We'll help you clearly define who you're targeting and where success lies. Understanding missions, need states, and current trends is critical. What market insights support your proposition? Is the category growing? Where are the white spaces? Does your product resonate? Have you spoken with your target consumers? Understanding how they shop, their behaviors, and attitudes toward food and drink ensures your product lands with clarity and impact.
3. Commercial viability/business plan
Using our framework, we'll ensure your proposition is commercially viable. We'll help you build a complete cost picture: manufacturing, packaging, and hidden expenses. Can your business be profitable? Where are the risks? What support do you need—investment, partnerships, or funding? We'll address realistic MOQs, lead times, macro market forces, production realities, potential waste, and challenges. Understanding true commercial viability early prevents costly mistakes later.
4. Prototyping and product development
In our development kitchen, we'll turn your idea and vision into reality—you'll be part of the journey every step of the way. Drawing on years of experience creating thousands of products, we'll craft your gold standard, then convert it into a factory-ready version. This is one of the most critical stages and our absolute equity, and ultimately it always comes back to - is it delicious!​​​​
5. Co-manufacturers and production partners
Using our vast network of global manufacturing partners, we'll help you find the right fit for your ambitions. MOQs, costs, and ingredient sourcing are major barriers for small brands—maintaining quality while staying true to your gold standard is crucial. With years of experience, we add real value here: connecting you with the right partners for product, ingredients, packaging, and logistics. Finding the right manufacturer changes everything.
6. Food regulations and on-pack claims
Ensuring your product does what it says is critical. We partner with market-leading experts to deliver quality throughout shelf life: detailed analysis, accurate nutritional information, navigating regulatory challenges, and robust claims that adhere to relevant market controls. Getting this right protects your brand, builds consumer trust, and ensures compliance. We'll guide you through every requirement with confidence and clarity.
7. Route to market
Understanding how and where you'll sell is essential. Is your product perfect for TikTok Shop, D2C, B2B, or direct-to-retail? We'll help you build a clear picture of how to grow volumes, capture sales, and engage your target consumer through the right channels. Getting your product in front of the right people, in the right place, at the right time makes all the difference.
8. Brand and packaging
Defining your brand—the look, feel, and essence (think, feel, do)—is crucial. Translating that into packaging requires understanding printing, substrates, colors, MOQs, lead times, and suppliers. We have an extensive team of experts who can help you develop your brand identity, design, and packaging. This is where your product comes to life on shelf and connects emotionally with consumers.
9. Marketing and social launch plan
How will consumers discover your brand? How do you engage in the complex world of social and marketing? Should you build a community, tell your backstory, share your journey, or surprise and delight? We work with experts to help you define the right strategy and approach for your product—regardless of budget. Effective marketing turns interest into sales and builds lasting relationships.
10. Being pitch ready
Whether facing a retailer or investor, you need to answer every question confidently. This isn't Dragons' Den—it's tougher. We'll help you prepare with a robust plan, clear vision, outstanding product, and truly viable commercial proposition. Securing funding or winning that listing transforms you from start-up to established business. This is where your vision comes to life and all your hard work pays off.