Turn a simple concept into a serious business with Andrew Shephard at Local Leaders

Recently, Vikram Vij and Brian Scudamore presented at Small Business BC’s Local Leader Series resulting in each event sold out with 200 people. Andrew Shepherd, Founder and CEO of Canada’s first green sea salt harvestry, Vancouver Island Salt Co., is up next and will discuss his journey from selling at local farmer’s markets to scaling-up his operations to meet international demand. He will present at the Local Leaders monthly business mixer at Small Business BC in Vancouver on Thursday, June 4.

Founding Canada’s first sea-salt harvesting company in 2009, the 36-year-old former chef has positioned himself at the forefront of Canada’s promising sea salt industry. During his exclusive presentation, Shepherd will discuss:

• Turning a simple, local concept into a successful business
• Strategies for developing a unique product and selling it to your target market
• Creating and following a business plan to achieve market growth
• Exploring the journey from farmer’s market booth to retail shelves and international export
• Listening to your customer for new opportunities and product development
• Setting the standard for green environmental practice

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“I started an industry to win a bet with a friend who challenged me to turn ocean water into salt, and in doing so I took hold of an opportunity,” said Shepherd. “I always talked about being an entrepreneur, so when I got my chance I knew I had to run with it. At Local Leaders, I hope the story of my business journey inspires others to take chance on a business idea.”

Between April and July, the series includes Vikram Vij, Owner of Vij’s, Rangoli and My Shanti (April 2); Brian Scudamore, Founder and CEO of 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, You Move Me and WOW 1 DAY PAINTING (May 7); Andrew Shepherd, Founder of Vancouver Island Salt Co. (June 4); and Tina Lee, CEO, T & T Supermarket (July 16). These presenters will cover important focus areas for small business owners, such as overcoming adversity, HR practices, scaling-up for international trade and succession planning.

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“Launching and growing a business takes a lot of hard work, a solid business plan and a strong community,” says George Hunter, CEO of Small Business BC. “We’re delighted to open our doors to help entrepreneurs learn from successful business owners and discover the tools and resources paramount to achieving long-term success.”

The public and small business community are encouraged to join Andrew Shephard for an evening of networking and interactive discussion, drinks and refreshments from SEVA Maple Water, Vancouver Island Brewery, 40 Knots Vineyard & Estate Winery along with appetizers and cupcakes from ManCakes Bakery. More information on the Local Leaders series can be found at sbbc.co/2015LL.

Local Leaders with Andrew Shephard

When: Thursday, June 4

Where: Small Business BC – 54-601 West Cordova Street, Vancouver

Time:
5:30 p.m. – Networking and Drinks Reception
6:30 p.m. – Guest Speaker – Andrew Shephard
7:05 p.m. – Interactive Q&A
7:15 p.m. – Networking

Tickets: $25 – Get tickets now at smallbusinessbc.ca and get 30% off your ticket when you use the promo code VANCITYBUZZ

About Small Business BC

Small Business BC provides entrepreneurs with the information and guidance necessary to build a solid foundation for their business. Through a wide range of products, services, education and resources there’s a piece that fits with every business. No matter what stage or what skill level, when an entrepreneur finds themselves asking “How do I…?” Small Business BC is the one to call.

About Local Leaders

Local Leaders is a monthly mixer series hosted by Small Business BC, the Province of British Columbia and Yellow Pages, connecting small business owners with thought leaders and each other. This series fosters the growth and development of local businesses by giving entrepreneurs an opportunity to network with and gain inspiration from business leaders in the community. This series supports the goal of the Small Business Accord to help foster a progressive business culture and support current and future generations of small business owners across B.C.

Vancity Buzz is a proud media sponsor of Small Business BC’s Local Leaders