EPISODE 498: Lord Bilimoria
The Less Gassy Guide to Entrepreneurship
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this episode, we are honoured to speak to Lord Karan Bilimoria. In the middle of a terrible recession, Bilimoria and his childhood friend started the business from scratch. Many years later, Cobra has established a household name and delivered consistent multiple-digit growth. When the pandemic happened, two-thirds of their sales shut down and they have almost gone back 30 years from where they started, but even in that situation, Bilimoria was able to come up with innovative ideas. He has also shared one of his principles that putting people first is important in running a business.
KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED
Overcoming Distribution Challenges During the Pandemic: Al Barratt discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted Grenade's product distribution, posing significant challenges for the company. He shares the strategies they implemented to adapt to these disruptions and how they managed to maintain their growth trajectory despite the obstacles.
Finding Positives in Adversity: In this episode, Al emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset during challenging times. He talks about how Grenade used the pandemic as an opportunity to innovate and refine their processes, turning a difficult situation into a period of growth and development for the brand.
The Explosive Journey of Building Grenade: Al takes listeners through his journey of founding Grenade with just £27 in the bank and growing it into a leading global brand in the sports performance and weight management industry. He shares insights into the bold and brash branding strategy that set Grenade apart and the key decisions that led to the company’s massive success, culminating in its acquisition by Mondelez for £200 million.
CONNECT WITH LORD KARAN BILIMORIA
LinkedIn: Lord Bilimoria
X: @lord_bilimoria
Website: www.lordbilimoria.co.uk
ABOUT THE GUEST
Lord Karan Bilimoria, CBE, DL, FCA is the Founder and Chairman of Cobra Beer, a joint venture with Molson Coors, which he founded in 1989, aiming to create a less gassy larger more suitable for drinking with curry and other foods. The Cobra has collectively received 101 gold medals since 2001, making it one of the most awarded beers in the world. Lord Bilimoria is the Founding Chairman of the UK India Business Council, a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London, and a former Chancellor of Thames Valley University. As a campaigning member of the House of Lords, chancellor of the University of Birmingham, and now president of the CBI, his is a career of achievement and navigating change.
