Exploring Local Success: Our Visit to Papas Mineral Co

At Table, we believe in the power of local businesses and the strength that comes from community support. Recently, we had the pleasure of attending an inspiring event at Papas Mineral Co, hosted by Clare Getty of East Belfast Enterprise & The Foundry as part of the Go Succeed NI peer support network. This event was a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs from the food and drink sector, share insights, and support each other’s business journeys.

A Journey Through Papa’s Mineral Co

The event was the third in a four-part series, with the first two sessions held at the Enterprise Centre. This session was unique as it took place at the business premises of Papa’s Mineral Co, giving us a firsthand look at the inner workings of this local gem.

Wayne, the owner of Papa’s Mineral Co, greeted us warmly and began with an engaging presentation about the journey and growth of his business. It was incredibly insightful to learn about how Papa’s Mineral Co started and evolved over the years, adapting to market changes and continuously innovating.

Tour of the Business Premises

Our tour of the business premises was nothing short of inspiring. Wayne walked us through the production area, explaining the processes involved in creating their signature mineral waters and other beverages. It was fascinating to see the dedication and attention to detail that goes into each bottle, ensuring the highest quality for their customers.

Insightful Q&A Session

The Q&A session that followed was a highlight of the event. Wayne was open and honest about the challenges and successes he has faced, providing us with plenty of inspiration and practical advice. His willingness to share his knowledge and experiences was invaluable, offering us new perspectives on how to grow and develop our own businesses.

Sampling New Products

One of the most exciting parts of the event was sampling some of Wayne’s new brands, including Longbridge Drinks Co. and their latest product, Irish Sisters. I’ve always enjoyed the Traditional Clove cordial coming up to Christmas time, but I had no idea that the range had grown to include so many other flavours, all handmade in East Belfast.

Still deciding on my favourite – was it the Pink Grapefruit Soda or the Raspberry & Rose? Each one was unique and delicious! Not to mention, the Fiery Ginger Wine is also a top contender for a favourite. Each sample was a delightful surprise, showcasing the innovative spirit of Papa’s Mineral Co.

Networking and Collaboration

Events like these, organised by the Go Succeed NI peer support network and supported by East Belfast Enterprise, are crucial for fostering a collaborative environment among local businesses. The network brings together small local businesses, providing them with the resources and support needed to thrive in today’s competitive market. Clare Getty and her team have done an excellent job in creating these opportunities for businesses to connect, learn and grow together.

The Importance of Supporting Local Businesses

At Table, we understand the importance of supporting small local businesses. They are the backbone of our community, contributing to the local economy and creating jobs. By attending events like this, we not only gain valuable insights but also reinforce our commitment to supporting and promoting local enterprises.

A Big Thank You

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Wayne for taking the time to chat us through everything and share his inspiring story. His passion for his work and dedication to quality is truly commendable. We highly recommend Papa’s Mineral Co for anyone interested in quality beverages and entrepreneurial success stories. If you haven’t already, be sure to check out their products:

• Papa’s Mineral Co
• Longbridge Drinks Co.
• Irish Sisters

A special thanks also to Clare Getty and the team at East Belfast Enterprise for organising such a valuable event. It’s gatherings like these that foster real growth and innovation in our community.

Conclusion

Supporting local businesses is more important than ever, and events like the Go Succeed NI peer support network are a testament to the power of community collaboration. At Table, we are proud to be part of such a dynamic and supportive community of entrepreneurs. Together, we can achieve great things and continue to drive innovation and growth in the local business sector.

Stay tuned for more updates and insights from our journey in supporting and celebrating small local businesses!