We had the good fortune of connecting with Mario Presi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mario, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Being a chef and a cyclist, I always felt quite “picky” and demanding when it came down to buy a snack or an energy bar. I felt unhappy with what was available at local coffee shops, cycling coffee shops, bike shops etc. I wasn’t happy with the ingredients most energy bar companies made their bars. So..I started making my own bars. At first, I thought it was going to be an easy process: go online; find a recipe you like; try it; eat and be happy; problem solved, right?

Nope!

The actual search and trials / test period was a lot longer. I just couldn’t find a recipe that was just right.
So, I created my own version of a granola bar.
My “granola bar” (or blue bar as my customers call it – due to the blue colour label I put on them..) is nuttier, tastier, wholesome than any other granola bars out there.
Made by hand, wrapped by hand, and delivered by bike to local coffee shops.

What should our readers know about your business?
It was a rollercoaster for sure! I didn’t know anything running a business abroad – in the UK – so I had to figure it out by myself. Thankfully a few friends helped me figuring things out. There were many days where I was ready to gave up but I worked through the bad days and the downs, I pushed on when no orders were coming in or when I was too physically and mentally tired to stay up until 2am to finish a batch of energy bars ready for the morning deliveries.
It was a lesson. Running a small, artisanal business requires focus, passion and dedication.
I started it alone and I grew the brand / business by myself.
I am proud of everything I have done and with the amazing results I was able to achieve.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have been influenced by many great people I met during my life, I read a lot of inspiring books too but above all, my parents (my Mum especially) have always been there for me. Giving me the right amount of support and feeding me positive energy throughout the way..since the beginning really.

Instagram: @chefonabike

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