I don't actually recall how Hannah and I met. But I do remember, it was Hannah who inspired me [unbeknownst to her, perhaps] to scavenge at wholesale fruit and veg. markets [at un-godly hours of the morning/night, to prove a point- not as dodgy as it sounds], who reminded me of all that you could accomplish as a solo-founder, and continues to remind of the power of the hustle. It was with ChicP that nibs etc. traded at its first ever trade and consumer show - Balance - and what an experience that was.
ChicP's solution to fighting food waste is simple, but ingenious, and enabling the saving of tonnes of perfectly edible produce in the process. It's also a visually vibrant, and a real taste-explosion of a product. Also reminding us of the amazing versatility of hummus.
Oh, and *PSA* new product launching SOON.
1. Can you give us an introduction - what is ChicP about?
We are a 100% plant based company focused on healthier alternatives, produced to the highest quality and with amazing flavours. Our ethos is all about sustainability, reducing food waste, eating well and educating consumers on this. Our aim for 2020 is to focus on Seasonality and local - a bigger challenge than you realise when it comes to working with BRC manufacturers, UK farmers, price barriers and distribution!
2. Where did the idea for ChicP originally come from?
ChicP was born after the amount of food I used to witness of food waste whilst working at events and as a private chef. I wanted to combine my love for healthy food with social issues, through a range of products, made from surplus vegetables and support for British Farmers. ChicP aims to help people make good choices. For health, taste and environmental reasons.
3. What is one thing you wish people knew about ChicP?
That it's not an easy ride trying to hit your sustainability missions! It takes time and brand growth and with volume, the easier it is to get there - which is why it's really exciting!
4. Describe your workplace in 3 words:
Flexible, coffee, fun
It's your journey, no one else's the same so there's no right or wrong.
- Hannah McCollum, ChicP Founder
5. What's the big dream, for ChicP?
To franchise in other countries, working with the farmers in each of those countries and evolving with products that farmers are now experimenting with. To be the number one sustainable, fresh, healthy, snack plant based food company!
6. Tell us when something went horribly wrong, and what you did to bounce back?
Our Chilli pumpkin hummus was reacting and therefore 'going off' before the shelf life use by date. We had quite a few complaints, wastage and some negative reviews on Ocado. We just had to do our best to find a new pumpkin supplier as soon as possible (which can take time!) and try and get the reviews back up again and the confidence in our customers again!
7. What's the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
It's your journey, no one else's the same so there's no right or wrong.
8. What's your favourite Spring meal?
Don't actually have one, sorry. My meals change all the time - but definitely lots of greenery, sweet potato, seeds, tahini, hummus.
9. Where would we find you on a Sunday morning?
In the countryside - in the hills or by the sea, followed by tea, coffee, breakfast, the paper, family and friends.
10. What's your number one food waste fighting tip?
DON'T throw it before at least smelling it or trying it - and if it's on the verge of nearly going off, roast, boil or fry it - or blend it. There's always a second life to be had. You can then freeze the leftovers for its third life :)
Get in touch:
ChicP
hannah@chicp.co.uk
All Photos © ChicP