Trinidad and Tobago: Savour de Isle of Tobago- a dairy-based beverage company, brought local flavours to grocery stores at the supermarket. The company was founded by Keston Pope in December 2013, with products rolled out to the public in 2015.
Then, in October 2019, the locally-made punches had a major breakthrough following the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association Trade and Investment Convention (TIC).
The products, now in demand at retail outlets and large supermarket chains like Xtra Foods, continue to attract consumers. Savour De Isle was selected by the Division of Finance, Trade and the Economy to participate in the TTMA and ExporTT’s trade mission to Grenada in February. Last year, the company was chosen as the Business Development Unit’s Creative Tank Tobago’ Entrepreneur Extraordinaire’ and ‘Most Promoting Business’.
1. What can be done to improve the entrepreneurial landscape in Tobago?
Entrepreneurship should be introduced in the educational curriculum not only to foster creativity in young minds but also to explore and expand on both conventional and nonconventional sustainable means of developing Tobago’s business sector.
However, local brand recognition and consumer support for local products remain paramount for the success of Tobago’s private sector and the possibility of eventual regional and international growth.
2. Why did you start your business, and who does it serve?
I have always had a knack for making punches and a passion for business. I use exotic indigenous fruits, herbs and unique ingredients to create great-tasting beverages with high nutritional value.
These drinks increase energy levels and support health and are ideal for health-conscious adults.
3.What three traits must an entrepreneur have to succeed?
Forbearance, optimism, and perseverance.
4. What’s one mistake you made in your business, and what did you learn from it?
A mistake was missing an opportunity for earlier expansion. This taught me to always be prepared for the next step and to avoid complacency.
5. What advice would you give someone considering entrepreneurship?
Entrepreneurship is a journey. There are opportunities, as well as disappointments along the way. Embrace the opportunities and learn from the disappointments. Be patient and self-motivated, stay focused on your goals, and prepare for a fulfilling experience.
Office of the Chief Secretary- THA stated, “Feeling for a peanut punch? What about dandy root and seamless or beetroot? These are among the flavours you’ll find from Savour De Isle at the supermarket.”
