Entrepreneurial Thoughts
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ulrika Pettersson, CEO, and founder of Unna Bakery, located in New York, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I bake traditional Swedish butter cookies from my Grandma's recipes!
Tell us about yourself
When I moved to NYC 10 years ago, the transition was tougher than I thought, and I missed my family a lot. I started baking my Grandma's cookies just to feel close to my loved ones and the Swedish flavors. I baked so much and gave cookies to my friends and neighbors who loved them, and that is when I started thinking about making it a business. I am a graphic designer by trade but was ready for a change, and in 2015 I started Unna Bakery from a shared kitchen in Harlem. I convinced 2 of my favorite stores to put my cookies on their shelves, and from there, it has grown to a great business!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I am so proud I built a viable business with many different customers. I have a very diverse customer base.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
It's a rollercoaster! So many ups and downs, but that keeps it interesting.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be aware of and stand out from your competition. Learn from them, what are they doing right, and what can be done better?
- Be prepared to work hard and have long-term goals. It takes time to build a customer base and create loyalty.
- Surround yourself with great people and be open to their feedback and ideas.