Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Katie Fletcher. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Katie , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
I studied abroad in three countries during my time studying public health at Yale University. While in Australia, Spain, and England, I discovered that package-free grocery shopping and bulk food refill shops were healthy, sustainable, and more affordable than conventional grocery stores. I was hooked! I came home figuring these stores already existed and I just hadn’t discovered them prior to leaving. To my dismay, none existed. Plastic and excess packaging continued to litter grocery isles and our beaches. I decided it was time to try and put an end to that by asking consumers to reconsider what it means to shop for food in our community.
Katie , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I am a young entrepreneur excited to make an impact on the food system in the community I was born and raised in. Our store provides package-free dried goods, superfoods, snacks, grains, and more. We also have organic, non-GMO produce and refrigerated goods. We even have treats for dogs! Our grocery has all of the foods you love with none of the plastic waste you hate.
Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?
I went through all of the cliche entrepreneur financial risk – drained my life savings, moved back in with my parents, and sought out an investment. Luckily, I was able to obtain one from a wonderful couple who supported my dream and vision, ultimately allowing Local Scoop to come to life.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
I thought I would become a dietitian and work in research or my own private nutrition practice. I applied for graduate programs in public health and nutrition after years of post-bach work and preparation. Ultimately, I got into my dream programs and just wasn’t all that excited to hop back into school. I took some time to think, knowing in my heart the dream of Local Scoop was still lingering. I deferred school and decided to jump in the deep end!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.localscoopbulkfoods.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/local_scoop_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/localscoopsd
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiefletcher/