Remember this: In life and business, challenges are ever-present. Some challenges can be overcome, while others provide valuable lessons and teach us the importance of resilience.
Fourteen months ago, we were thrilled to become part of a new farmers' market in our area, situated in the developing town of Wellen Park. Wellen is a distinctive town located between Venice and North Port, known for its upscale atmosphere, despite primarily serving as a pass-through for many long-time locals in our area.
We saw Wellen Park Fresh Harvest Market as an incredible opportunity to share our handcrafted soaps with the community. Being offered a position as a "founding vendor," despite the presence of a larger soap company, was an honor.
Our products are made with wholehearted dedication, embodying the spirit of a true small business, free from jealousy or competition. We are immensely proud of what we have built and, with grace, integrity, and determination, we will continue to grow and thrive. Apotheca Brown is a company with a far-reaching presence, not confined to a single location.
As a woman-founded business, it is especially disheartening to be pushed aside by another woman-founded business. We believed that there was room for all of us to thrive and that our shared history of starting from scratch and building something beautiful would foster a sense of solidarity rather than competition. It's a shame that someone who started out just like us, facing the same challenges and celebrating the same victories, would have us removed from a SMALL self-built client base who enjoyed our presence. (They stated "That company is prohibiting us from creating a customer base" )
In 2009, when this now very successful business was just starting in Naples, FL., they were in our shoes. They were working tirelessly to build a customer base, perfecting their products, and hoping for the support of their community. We imagine they faced their fair share of obstacles and would have appreciated the understanding and camaraderie of other small businesses. It's disappointing that they felt the need to have us removed, a business just like they once were, to capture their success. (2024-They now have 11 retail locations, WHY are they so worried about little us once a week for 4 hours?)
At Apotheca Brown, we believe in the power of community and supporting one another, especially among women entrepreneurs. We have always been grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Wellen Park Fresh Harvest Market and to share our soaps. We are disappointed that our journey with Wellen has been cut short, but we remain committed to bringing you our handcrafted soaps and sundries through many other avenues.
At the end of all the drama, it's business. Everyone at one time or another feels the need to protect their slice of the business pie.
For us, we grow. We move forward with dignity & fervor. We are proud to get you back to what clean means!
*Business Names have been withheld
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