What does the plant-based industry look like now and in the future?

The plant-based foods industry is growing at nearly double the rate of conventional foods.  Total industry sales for 2016 were 3.7 billion dollars and sales are expected to reach 13.9 billion by 2026.  This is exciting for Gypsy Soul Sweets because it means there is plenty of room for new companies like ours to develop into a nationally recognized brand.  According to market trend watch companies such as Mintel and Neilsen, customers want products that are made with real ingredients, in eco friendly packaging and that are created by actively using foods which help to forestall health issues and medical conditions.  We do all of these things!

Who is your competition?

As with any new start-up company entering into a market of corporate giants, there are always risks involved.  Fortunately for Gypsy Souls Sweets we only have two large competitors. Competitor one is a large national brand which focuses more on the dairy free cheese market, rather than desserts. Competitor two is growing very quickly.  This competitor sells raw mini tarts and coconut macaroons; their products are tasty and made well, but are not created with specific health benefits in mind.  We are more than happy that these two companies exist and are very successful because it means that there is definite need for the products we offer!

Don't you have any concerns about this new venture?

The only real concern that we have going forward is that we grow too fast, the demand for healthy plant-based foods is growing at an incredible rate and GSS want to make sure that we have the ability to remain on top of the quality and distribution at all times.  In the first six months we plan to grow slow and steady within the Northern California and Northern Nevada markets. We want to make sure that we are solid in our day to day production and distribution operations from the start.  There has been interest in carrying our products expressed by the local co-ops, Whole Foods Market and numerous other business as well. Within the first year we will begin attending natural food trade shows and start a heavy marketing campaign to take our product national.

How much is shipping and how long will it take?

The average cost of shipping up to 8 bars is about $15.00 and should arrive within 3 days.  We ship the bars frozen surrounded with ice packs.  The bars will stay fresh in their packages for 7-10 days if kept refrigerated and up to 6 months in the freezer.

As part of the rewards program we are offering a gift card for the stated value.  You will be able to redeem your cards at any retailer which carries our products (a list will be posted on our website once we are officially open to the public) or you can order your bars through our website.  Once the campaign closes we will email all recipients a voucher code to redeem at checkout.