EPISODE 527: Jim Cregan
It's The Worst Business In The World
EPISODE SUMMARY
Starting from working in chilly weather as a labourer to dressing up as a mermaid and hosting major festival stages, Jim Cregan's journey is a rollercoaster of unexpected twists.
After hitting a low point and deciding that festivals and labour weren't his calling, Jim headed to Australia for a breather. It was there, in a random petrol station, that he stumbled upon ready-to-drink iced coffee and fell in love with its coolness.
Returning to the UK, Jim, along with his sister Suze, took a leap of faith and founded Jimmy's Iced Coffee in 2011. Before hitting the shelves of Selfridge's, they tested their creation on surfers and tired binmen, proving that their iced coffee was a hit.
With hard work and boundless enthusiasm, they turned their vision into a thriving business. Jimmy's Iced Coffee became a household name found in stores all over the UK.
Fast forward to July 2023, and Jim and Suze made a big decision. They sold Jimmy’s Iced Coffee to Britvic, a soft drinks giant, but here's the twist—they're not saying goodbye. Jim and Suze are staying on as ambassadors to guide the brand's future.
KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED
Resilience Pays Off: Jim's journey teaches us that resilience is not just a trait; it's a way of life. Embrace challenges, learn from them, and keep pushing forward.
Passion Fuels Success: Behind every successful venture is a passionate individual. Jim's unwavering belief in his product and vision has been a driving force for Jimmy's Iced Coffee.
Balancing Act: While the entrepreneurial journey can be exhilarating, it's essential to find balance. Jim's story reminds us to celebrate successes, learn from failures, and enjoy the journey. Although balance is something of a mystical creature.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Jim Cregan has led a life full of unexpected twists and turns, from working as a labourer in the cold winter months to hosting major UK festival stages dressed as a mermaid. However, it was a life-changing trip to Australia with his partner that truly set his entrepreneurial journey in motion.
Enamored with the taste of iced coffee Down Under, Jim returned to the UK with a newfound passion. In 2011, alongside his sister and business partner, he founded Jimmy's Iced Coffee. Through sheer hard work, determination, and boundless enthusiasm, they transformed their vision into a thriving business that has become a beloved household name in the UK. Jim's story is a testament to the power of following one's passions and taking bold leaps of faith.
