Never settle for just 'better'.
How to reinvent a product category from the ground up. Meet Minor Figures co-foudner, Stuart Forsyth.
For the co-founders of Minor Figures, it wasn’t enough to just create a better cold brew brand than existing ones in the market; they would reinvent it. Read how Stuart Forsyth built this iconic brand.
Start Up Loan amount: £30,000
Year founded: 2015
Website: minorfigures.com
What would you tell yourself as a new founder just about to start on your journey?
Results take time.
What was the biggest mistake you've made as a founder?
I'm an idiot. I've made loads of mistakes, too many to mention here.
What have been the biggest learnings on your startup journey?
If you think the price of success is too high - just wait until you get the bill from regret.
What's been the most exciting achievement for you as a founder?
Getting paid in money every month is still pretty exciting.
How has Virgin StartUp helped you to get your business to where it is today?
Virgin StartUp was fundamental to our business. At the time it was the only option for us as founders, and provided the necessary loan required to get us going. They were also very positive and gracious to all founders - and believed in every single one. This is something that is most definitely needed. We will always be grateful to Virgin StartUp.
If we haven't said it before - thank you!!
What has been the most valuable piece of advice, information or event that you've read/attended from Virgin StartUp?
When Richard Branson attended one event many years ago, he moved away from the crowd and made his way over to me. He looked me in the eye as he shook my hand, then leaned in and spoke solemnly. He said, "Son, your fly is undone."
Has anything surprised you about running a startup?
That it is mostly painful, which is occasionally punctuated with brief but excruciatingly more painful moments.
What's been your biggest business achievement to date?
It’s our 10 year anniversary this year and a few people are still here. I'd say being able to say thank you to them and share a beer with them - that's a pretty nice thing.