Blender Bites is a Vancouver business that makes plant-based vitamin smoothie pucks. We spoke with Chelsie Hodge, Founder, to find out more about them.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Our business is called Blender Bites- a pre-portioned one-step smoothie puck filled with organic fruits, seven organic greens, and plant-based vitamins which are all derived from whole food fruits and vegetables. Our products are highly convenient and easy to use (even the kids can make them on their own)! Just add water or liquid of choice, making a delicious smoothie for kids, families, and anyone on the go. Blender Bites simplifies the smoothie experience, and guarantees a healthy, tasty smoothie every time!
What made you want to do this work?
Being constantly on the go, I found myself often buying smoothies but was disappointed in the lack of nutritional ingredients and high sugar. I began creating my own at home but found I didn’t always have the time or all the ingredients necessary. After throwing away fruits and vegetables that had gone bad in the fridge and cleaning up the mess from my daily smoothie, I knew there had to be a better way. I was tired of the mess, prep, and waste of the high cost of organic ingredients required to get those nutritious and detoxifying benefits that I was looking for. I had to create a solution that would simplify the process and reduce waste without compromising on nourishing ingredients or taste.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
Blender Bites provides a solution for those looking for an easy and nutritious smoothie experience. There’s no need to run back and forth to the grocery store for an ingredient that’s gone bad, or even to plan out a recipe. Blender Bites allows you to create the perfect smoothie every time using only your liquid of choice. This eliminates the high costs of organic ingredients, extra product plastic packaging and allows people to easily get their nutrition in seconds!
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Blender Bites are perfect for anyone looking for an easy way to consume organic, nutritious foods. We’re a great option for Moms on the go! Sneak in 7 organic greens and plant-based vitamins derived from organic whole foods for kids and picky eaters alike.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We are nationally distributed in Canada at most major retail banners and in select club warehouses. We have our sights on launching in the US Marketing in 2022 in the club channel, followed by key retail accounts and Food Service– we can’t say too much so stay tuned!
Where in the city can we find your profession?
You can find us all across Canada! We are listed in most major banners such as Loblaws, Sobeys, Save On, IGA, Safeway, Thrifty’s and select Costco Warehouses in Ontario.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
Why choose us over our competitors? We pride ourselves on our formulations and the benefits our products provide for our consumers. We are proud to be organic certified, using only the highest quality of ingredients. We aren’t just your average smoothie, as our blends are not only delicious but also functional with claims varying from high fibre, energizing B Vitamins, and immune support. The best advantage for Blender Bites is how delicious our products are, as all you need is water to blend or shake. Most other companies struggle with taste and texture, where Blender Bites gives you a consistent, healthy, organic, flavour-popping smoothie every time.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is all the consumer love we get! Our product simplifies people’s lives, making nutrition easy and accessible. We love hearing stories from grateful moms, thanking us for providing a solution not only for them but also for their picky eaters! Also from people on the go, who have made Blender Bites a morning ritual to start their day right. It’s inspiring to know how our product can impact someone’s life so much and it continues to make us love what we do.
The worst part is that there aren’t enough hours in a day! We have so many opportunities with Blender Bites and such high demand, we really need to be focused on the right ones to support our growth.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
Our company falls under two sectors as we are both a CPG company and publicly traded as of September 2021! The joke we always hear in both sectors (maybe not a favourite) is that it’s a boys club. While intended to be humorous, the sad truth is that it is. We are beyond excited to be changing this ongoing joke and really breaking through the glass ceilings- in both sectors! I’m also really proud to be one of two CEO & Founders under 40 that is trading on the CSE.
Where can we follow you?
You can follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
We love seeing and supporting amazing women entrepreneurs in the CPG space. We want to shout out to Chiwis! They are a healthy fruit chip snack- perfect for on the go! Sarah has done an amazing job building the company and is also local to BC!
