Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

My husband and I began a gourmet food business about three years ago.  I hand mix, package and sell our line of dips, soups and other gourmet products.  I work full time in the business and my husband helps out with weekend sales events.  Our volume of business has reached a point where I can barely keep up the pace.  Does anyone have any thoughts on the best course of action to pursue next?  I realize that hiring someone to help might be one solution but since my business can be stronger in certain seasons of the year, a full time employee is not the answer.  I am interested in researching the possibility of purchasing a small mixing-packaging machine.  However that idea may be too expensive. 

Any thoughts and ideas on where to start looking for the small packaging machine or alternative ideas are welcomed.  My husband keeps reminding me that there came a time when Henry Ford needed help  making cars.  What would Henry do?

Sally Conner

Thanks for the comments.  I have thought about the temp help solution and it may be the best option at this point.  I am very particular with my products and struggle to share the responsibilities with others.  But eventually, to continue growing it must be done.

Sally 

Sally,

You might want to consider using a co-packer to handle manufacturing. My company, www.GourmetBusinessSolutions.com works with small specialty food companies like yours and could certainly be of assistance to you in many areas. Contact me anytime and we can speak about your goals/objectives.

- Ryan

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Yours is a very positive question because you have already exceeded your expectatons.

In as far as an extra hand is concerned, there are two options:

1. A Short term employee

Of course you may not need a full time employee now. Get a contract drawn up between you and the employee that stipulates that your relationship is time fixed but can be extended at your discretion. I know that a part time employee may not be of much help now.

2. Get a trainee:

They do not cost much to hire. Part of the earnings should be reduced through training costs. You will find someone passionate.

And as for the sourcing of the machine, I suggest that you visit E-bay or similar sites. You should be able to find a used but still efficient dough mixing machine for a song. Alternatively, import from China or India. They are likely to be cheaper though not so durable.