BlueAvocado Provides Green Innovations
1st July 2011 · 0 Comments
Austin entrepreneur builds a sound business model on sustainable products
Amy George identifies herself as “Chief Ozone Officer” of her company, BlueAvocado. The title fits. BlueAvocado specializes in creating green lifestyle products such as reusable shopping bags and tote bags. The Austin-based company strives to help consumers avoid generating destructive carbon dioxide emissions as well as billion of dollars in trash.
George and her two business partners shared the pain of the company’s initial bootstrapping, pouring everything from previous incomes to liquidated investments into BlueAvocado. “Two of us were new moms, so we also juggled caring for newborns while debating branding and funding strategies,” she adds. Once the company’s advisory board managed to secure outside funding, however, it got its first customers in about three months. George states that the company now “on the cusp of sustained profitability,” with $550,000 in revenue for 2010 and an anticipated revenue of $3 million in 2011.
People make up another hugely important resource for BlueAvocado. Early customers provided invaluable information that helped shape the company’s products and policies, while other business owners freely shared their input. “We appreciate the dozens of people who have helped us launch and grow our business,” says George. “Texas entrepreneurs have a pioneering spirit and a positive attitude, so I always seek out those who have experiences to share.”
BlueAvocado will enhance its visibility and its product line as its star continues to rise. George plans to leverage the new distribution partner to gain access to more retail outlets while creating new innovative products. She also plans to share the company’s successful business blueprint with other entrepreneurs, working with them on their sustainability vision.
George lists four critical bits of advice for other startup owners: “Have a Plan B, listen to your customers, love what you do, and know your exit strategy.”
