Today we’d like to introduce you to Russ Bruguiere.
Russ, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My wife (Bridget) and I were looking for an opportunity where we could start a company that we were truly proud of while making a meaningful impact within our local and global community. After considering starting a non-profit, we landed on starting a Social Enterprise, where 10% of our profits go directly to Educational based charities. We then landed on starting an E-Commerce company that provided Single Origin Coffees and Wine direct to your doorstep. A big piece of our business was making sure that on every label (wine, coffee, candles, and soaps) that we outline the charity that YOU, the consumer, are donating to through your purchase. We felt like giving consumers the ability to purchase with purpose was very powerful. Not only from a feel-good standpoint but also transparency.
After eight months of successful E-Commerce, Farmer’s Markets, and Pop-Ups, we decided to open up a storefront where we showcase our products to a wider audience. Today customers can stop by our storefront in Winter Park and enjoy amazing coffees, sample wine, and peruse a carefully curated selection of products from women and minority-owned businesses.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In any startup, there are always speed bumps. We decided to bootstrap our company (use all of our own funds) rather than go after investor or VC money. Being in business less than a year and going through a hyper-growth period with no investors or banking partners has been tough. However we have been super fortune to be able to continue growth and donations to our charitable partners through our own efforts.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about KOS?
KOS is a Social Enterprise based in Winter Park, FL. We produce amazing California Wines, Single Origin Coffee, and Soy Candles, all with the goal of creating awareness for and donating to charities and non-profits that are changing our world for the better.
I think what sets us apart is that we have a defined amount that we donate (10%). Some companies say they give “a portion of their profits” to charity and lack the transparency we feel consumers deserve. We are the most proud of our labels and the fact that customers can see directly where they are contributing to through their purchase.
Can you talk about how you think about risk?
We feel like to be an entrepreneur… you have to take risks. We decided to start an E-Commerce Winery and Coffee Roastery in the middle of a global pandemic. How much more risky can you get.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@choosekos.com
- Website: www.choosekos.com
- Instagram: @ChooseKOS
