About this idea
Pawpaw s Pickles and Cha Cha have been immensely popular at Farmers Markets, Crafts and Trades and other events. It is not uncommon for for multiple flavors to sell out at events despite increased inventory at events. Pawpaws already has a loyal following and repeat customers. Our products have been featured on TV and in new articles. Our company has spent the last few years perfecting recipes that are customized based on customer feedback and requests.
Moving beyond in person vendor events, out company has robust online sales with customers across the U.S. including Texas, UT, FL and PA to name a few states. Online Cha Cha is the best seller. Additionally wholesales are increasing with Pawpaws Pickles currently available in 8 locations and growing in Michigan. We are well positioned to bring this idea to market because of our market research, business experience and professional advisors guiding the business. What's more is that Michigan is a great place for a Pickle/Cha Cha business.
It is important to note that Michigan ranks first nationally in the production of cucumbers for pickling. In 2022, Michigan produced 216,726 tons of pickling cucumbers with a value of $45.5 million. In addition, the state produced 53.6 million pounds of cucumbers for the fresh market worth $17.7 million. The U.S. pickle industry is valued at $3.1 billion, with increasing consumer demand for natural, preservative-free pickled products. The U.S. pickle market is growing steadily, offering room for a new businesses like Pawpaws Pickles to thrive.
While homemade pickles dominate, consumer demand for new flavors and health-conscious options is rising, particularly among younger customers. Many people are constantly looking for healthy food options such as gluten free, vegan or sugar free options. With 100,000+ acres of cucumbers grown for pickling there's a strong appetite for high-quality, small-batch alternatives—a prime opportunity for Pawpaws Pickles to carve out its niche in the specialty and artisanal pickle space.
Impact
The company actively participates in food festivals and pop-up markets, forging partnerships with local businesses. We contribute regularly to the local and Michigan economic development by partnering with other groups. We purchase as many supplies as possible locally from stores and farms.
Customers like to support local businesses and family owned businesses. By recirculating dollars in the community everyone benefits and customers get a great product they love and enjoy. Local restaurants and stores benefit from our customers coming to their location to buy our products. This partnership drives new customers to local business. We also promote locations which carry our products through our social media platforms.
What I'll do with $5,000
Funds will be used for: Prize $5000 - Bulk buying jars and lids to cut costs, enhancing profitability and
competitive pricing without compromising quality. By purchasing jars and lids in bulk, will be a significant per unit cost savings: Jars: $1.60 per case savings on 450 cases, totaling $720.00 in savings.
Lids: $0.03 per unit savings on 5400 units, leading to $160 in annual savings. Combined savings of $880.00
help prevent production delays and improve the bottom line in 2025. This savings will accelerate our business for growth a reinvestment for other improvements.
Quick Bio
Toney and Cynthia Hines are the owners. Cynthia heads Strategy & Procurement and Sales & Marketing, leveraging her background is sales and business leadership. Toney has experience in catering.
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