On this episode we were joined by Chef Julius West, the owner of Sarge’s Shrimp and Grits Sauce. Chef Julius discussed how he went from owning a food truck to expanding and selling their products in stores and online. His business transformed during COVID, when he had to pivot due to the risk of being a food truck became too high. He talks about how they’ve been able to get their food into the hands of customers as well as expandinging into stores. Tune in to this episode if you are interested in the restaurant industry or are looking to bring a food or beverage item to market. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [5:21] What is Sarge’s Shrimp and Grits Sauce and what did Julius West do prior to starting it?
• [11:29] How did experience as an entrepreneur help Julius keep moving forward with his business?
• [14:15] What was their first minimum order?
• [15:34] What made Sarge’s Shrimp and Grit decide to sell online and not focus on local stores? 
• [18:03] Julius discusses the basics about the sauce.
• [19:41] How did they get the product into the hands of buyers?
• [22:18] Was a food truck a good way to get into the industry?
• [25:50] What is their expansion plan?
• [29:55] How does it work for products to get into stores for sampling? 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• If you are interested in getting into the restaurant industry, a food truck can be a great option that gets your name out there, allows you to travel around, and it gives you the capability of getting started with less of a financial outlay. 
• To get your product out there, you can connect with speciality food associations. They help you get samples out and they offer trade shows so you can get your product in the hands of others. This can also allow for sponsors or investors! 
• A lot of entrepreneurship is trial and error. Determining what the market is wanting, try out your solution and then adjust per the feedback you get. 

BIO:

Chef Julius West’s love of food developed as a child traveling the U.S. as the son of an Air Force Sergeant. While his dad was serving, Julius spent hours in the kitchen with his mom where she taught him that thoughtfully preparing traditional, homestyle dishes is a way to show others care and respect. 

This inspired Julius to open his food truck in 2012 where his delicious shrimp & grits quickly became the most popular dish on the menu. Julius has now decided to bottle this fan favorite to make it easy for anyone to enjoy this delicious, time-honored regional favorite at home.​

LINKS MENTIONED:

Easy Shrimp and Grits Website