#147 - Rising Star: Simon Solis-Cohen, Huxley
Simon Solis-Cohen, founder of Huxley, explains how he launched a plant-powered energy drink in just 130 days, leveraging his background in culinary arts and wine marketing to prioritize real fruit juice and upcycled cascara. He details the rapid formulation process with a local co-packer, the strategic importance of national park-inspired branding, and securing early retail partnerships with UNFI, Lululemon, and Misfits Market. Solis discusses his 'slow growth' strategy, focusing on the Minneapolis market and targeting demographics like Gen Z and 'Diet Coke moms' while maintaining high sustainability standards through 1% for the Planet and plastic-free packaging.