This week I speak to industry titan - Mike Hemming, The Commercial Director of LoveSum Dumplings

We discuss Mike's extensive background in the food industry, including his time at Cadbury, Green & Black's, Mars Pet Care and Peter's Yard.

Mike shares the founding story of LoveSum Dumplings, their vision for fresh dumplings in the UK, and the challenges they face in the retail market.

There's insights on working in both corporate and SME environments, and advice for aspiring food entrepreneurs.

There's SO much to dig into - ENJOY!

If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand.

They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to LoveSum Dumplings

01:15 The Founding Story of LoveSum Dumplings

03:25 Mike's Journey to LoveSum Dumplings

05:56 Retail Success and Brand Growth

07:55 Lunar New Year and Sales Insights

11:29 Building a Factory and Overcoming Challenges

15:17 Career Path and Early Influences

18:27 Lessons from Cadbury's Experience

19:57 Lessons from Cadbury: Leadership and Culture

21:13 Transitioning to Green and Blacks: Authenticity and Innovation

23:44 The Unique Environment at Mars: People Management and Leadership

25:14 Scaling Peter's Yard: From Niche to Mainstream

29:52 Navigating Premium Markets: Strategies for Success

32:59 Focus on Core Products: Building a Strong Brand

37:02 Advice for Aspiring Food Entrepreneurs: Passion and Experience