A Local Hot Sauce Business Faces Closure Due to Pandemic Challenges
A local hot sauce company, Merfs Condiments, is facing closure early next year despite high demand for its products. The owner, Kelly Schexnaildre, cited financial difficulties as the main reason for the closure, with the business expected to shut down by the end of January.
Founded in 2014, Merfs Condiments saw a significant decline in revenue during the pandemic, with costs tripling and revenue dropping by 80 percent. The company primarily served restaurants, which accounted for 80 percent of its sales, but the closure of eateries in 2020 led to a sharp decline in revenue from this sector.
To adapt to the changing market conditions, Schexnaildre shifted focus to e-commerce and retail sales, but it was not enough to sustain the business. The impending Trump presidency and potential tariffs on imported goods further contributed to the decision to close.
Despite the challenges faced by Merfs Condiments, Schexnaildre is launching a new venture called The Juicy Lemon to support aspiring entrepreneurs in the consumer packaged goods industry. The platform will provide guidance and coaching to help others succeed where Merfs fell short.
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