时事资讯:巧克力曲奇女王的创业故事_时事

时事资讯:巧克力曲奇女王的创业故事

Q. How has your company fared during the recession?

A. We've done relatively well. It makes us all work smarter. We watch everything closely and we cut where we can. We never cut on quality but if I can buy a paper bag cheaper, we do that. My retail-store business isn't growing because rentals (in the Hamptons) are down, but the wholesale business is growing. People tend to eat more sweets when stressed.

Q. What's been your biggest challenge?

A. Breakage and shelf life is a constant challenge. People want an all-natural product, but they want it to last 6 months. We just keep trying to create a better mousetrap.

Q. What are your long-term plans for the company?

A. My long-term plans are to continue to grow the business and to be the best chocolate chip cookie in the country and to eventually sell the company. I don't have any children and there is no niece or nephew that can't wait to run Tate's. I'd like to sell when I'm young enough to climb up the highest mountain.

Q. What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs just starting out?

A. As you try to make decisions, take the emotion out. When we start a business, it's like raising a child. You start from nothing; you put everything into it; and you watch it grow. But it's not a child. When you take the emotion out of decision-making, everything is clear. Your business will grow, and everybody will be better for it.