Foodpreneur

Foodpreneur:

Char Pfaelzer

About the Foodpreneur: 

I grew up not cooking and in fact was not allowed in the kitchen.  Then I married an American with not much money and moved to the States at age 19.  I had to learn how to cook in a hurry and developed a lifelong passion for experimenting in the kitchen, researching recipes and food preparation, and exploring cuisines from around the world. 

About the Pelican Bay Biz: 

Pelican Bay was incorporated in 1982. It is a family business and sales have increased every year. We blend Dry Mixes [baking, drink, pet treats]. We are known for innovative packaging and using the best ingredients. We are very proud of our products and our reputation.

Founded: 

 1982

Number of Employees: 

80 - 250

Clients:

Gourmet, gift, department stores

Marketing Strategies: 

Try to grow the business every year. Expand on existing customer base by exhibiting at Trade Shows and employing Sales Reps, and try to add several big new customers a year.

 Fun Food Story:

Our best complaint letter was from a customer who received a gift basket with products from several different companies.  She pointed out that everyone else's products in perfect condition.  Ours was a disgrace as "the Cookies arrived in tiny crumbs."  It was a COOKIE MIX. 

Char knew Pelican Bay was a hit when: 

We were having breakfast in a hotel In Chicago and saw a full page ad in the newspaper for our products - which we did not even know about.

In the News: 

Today Show, local TV, local newspapers, Parade Magazine, catalogs

Why is Char in the Food Business? 

Because I am basically unemployable by anyone else at this point.

Words from the Wise (what you don't like about the biz):

It has become very cut throat.  You basically have 6 months before a product is knocked off. 

Contacting Pelican Bay:

Pelican Bay Ltd.
150 Douglas Avenue
Dunedin, FL  34698
(727) 733-8399
Website:  Pelican Bay Ltd