Member Highlight: Phildesco
To learn more about Phildesco, we asked their team to weigh-in.
What is the name of your company?
Phildesco, Inc.
When and why did you start your company?
The seeds for Phildesco were planted in the late 1940s, with formal incorporation taking place in 1966. The time had come for a North American team to assist their Philippines-based sister company and manufacturer, Peter Paul Philippine Corporation, with sales in the US and Canada.
3 sentences or less, can you tell us about the work your company is doing and why it is important?
Since 1966, Phildesco has brought a world of sustainable coconut products to North America. This singular focus has been honed over 55 years, helping companies large and small bring quality products to the marketplace. Today, trust and confidence have never been more important and Phildesco’s strong supply chain relationships from farm to shelf make us an experienced and reliable partner.
What do you think others should be aware of with regards to the work your company is doing?
Straightforward supply chains often offer the greatest level of transparency. We believe in our vertically-integrated model – wherein we work directly with farmers to source coconuts prior to processing, packaging, and distribution – as it allows us to see the impact of our sustainability programs. We are ardent supporters of programs such as Fair Trade USA and are encouraged to see continued industry interest in such programs for all products – coconuts and beyond.
How have the current circumstances of the world changed your business plan?
As a family-owned and operated business, we are fortunate to be able to take the “long view” when it comes to investing in our people, products, and operations. Even in years when a global pandemic is not wreaking havoc on international supply chains, working with natural ingredients can be challenging. The past year and a half has been and continues to be quite the test, but we have not wavered in our fundamental promise of delivering quality coconut products to our customers. True partnerships shine through challenges.
Do you have any exciting news or launches occurring this year?
Let’s say we are working on some exciting product developments which we hope to bring to market next year.
What is one thing you wish you knew as you began your work that you think is important for others working in this industry to know?
Network, network, network. Whether freight forwarding, warehousing, or co-packing – you can never know too many people in this industry! Thankfully, organizations such as PBFA make it easy to connect with like-minded companies and serve a wonderful role in bringing attention to the issues that matter in our industry. In that same spirit – if you’ve seen something that resonates with your company or brand, please drop us a line! We always love to chat with new connections.
Where can others find you online?
- Website: Phildesco.com
- Facebook / Instagram: @phildescoinc
Member Highlight: Hummingbird Brands
To learn more about Hummingbird Brands, we asked their team to weigh-in.
What is the name of your company?
Hummingbird Brands
When and why did you start your company?
In 2017, we formed Hummingbird as a CPG investment platform with a particular emphasis on Healthy Food, Nutrition, and Personal Care businesses. We partner with values-aligned companies that have reached an inflection point in their growth cycle (business, brands, capital needs, and culture). We help guide, coach, and provide new perspectives from a partnership that is deep in both financial and operating expertise.
In 3 sentences or less, can you tell us about the work your company is doing and why it is important?
Our focus is to accelerate growth for companies that do good for people and the planet. We believe that companies supporting plant-based, non-GMO, organic, and/or regenerative agricultural practices drive awareness to promote sustainability. By facilitating their growth, we positively impact the planet.
What do you think others should be aware of with regards to the work your company is doing?
We are more than just financial people; we have been CEO’s and CMO’s as well so we can be helpful to support the full leadership team. We understand the power of simple, clear consumer and channel customer insights. We also come with sleeves rolled up and know there will be speedbumps.
How have the current circumstances of the world changed your business plan?
While our targets remained unchanged, the path to achievement had to adapt over the past year. Agility was and remains key. Trends that were emerging, are now accelerating which creates opportunity. Importantly, consumers have an even greater interest in supporting family health and the wellness of the planet.
Do you have any exciting news occurring this year?
Yes! Lenny & Larry’s recently launched the Complete Cookie-fied Bar, which adds to the Complete Cookie® line, which is one of the largest plant-based food product platforms. And our portfolio Company Nutiva, was able to acquire an innovative brand called Coconut Secret from its founders, which adds to Nutiva’s growing plant-based food platform in culinary oils and sauces.
What is one thing you wish you knew as you began your work that you think is important for others working in this industry to know?
Enjoy the process of being a builder. There is powerful learning in adversity. Perservere. Build on. Stay positive and joyful through the ups and downs.
Where can others find you online?
Website: www.hummingbirdbrands.com