What happens when a doctor, an engineer, a financial controller and a farmer start a drinks business? How do you start a vodka brand when you don't know how to make it? How did their creamy, smooth potato-based vodka win a raft of awards before they'd even sold a single bottle?

In this episode, Jo Densley dives into the journey of Nine Tines, the premium spirit that's putting Yorkshire on the vodka map. Founders Gwen Bromley and Richard Smith (the doctor and the engineer) explain how their passion for Yorkshire's landscape and produce inspired them to craft a premium potato-based vodka using locally grown ingredients, all within a nine-mile radius. They share insights and experiences from starting the business, actually learning to make vodka, designing and honing the process, and putting authenticity and sustainability at the heart of their business.

Listen to this episode to find out:

• The secret most other vodkas don't want you to know
• What's different about Nine Times and how did it win gold over products from the likes of Pernod Ricard and Diageo
• The diverse skills the four founders bring to the team
• What went into creating their meaningful and elegant branding
• What they've learned about taking their product to market
• The partnerships that have been key to growing the business

This episode is essential listening for anyone building a premium food or drink brand who wants to understand how provenance, craft, and patient brand-building can create genuine competitive advantage - even in a crowded market.

Find out more about Nine Tines and buy online: https://ninetines.co.uk/

--

My name is Jo Densley, and I help food and drink businesses grow with joined-up sales and marketing. There’s a wealth of free webinars available on my website, where you can also explore my services and read my case studies as well.

The Marshmallowist was the UK’s first producer of gourmet marshmallows. Marrying innovation and indulgence, they’re like nothing you’ve ever tasted. Led by sisters Oonagh and Jenny Simms, their first stockist was Harvey Nichols, and they were soon featured in Vogue. They’ve joined The Hairy Bikers on TV, published a book, and this year were stocked nationwide as part of Marks & Spencer’s Mother’s Day activity. How have they done it?

Join Jo Densley as she explores the journey of The Marshmallowist, how they’ve built a team, and kept focused on inventive flavours and artisanal craftsmanship. Discover how they went from Portobello Road market stall to nationwide recognition, collaborating with retailers like Fortnum & Mason and Marks & Spencer. They share insights on managing seasonality, sustaining creativity, and nurturing a dedicated team, all while navigating the complexities of the food industry.

Listen to How to Grow a Food Business with The Marshmallowist to learn:

• How Oonagh found out whether she had a good idea for a food business
• How they approach product development and new flavours
• The importance of partnerships and relationships in growing
• How they won a nationwide listing with M&S for Mother’s Day 2025 – and how long it took
• All about getting featured on TV and what it does for sales
• The factors and moments that have been most important in the growth of the business

Try their amazing marshmallows and teacakes for yourself at www.themarshmallowist.com.

--

My name is Jo Densley, and I help food and drink businesses grow with joined-up sales and marketing. There’s a wealth of free webinars available on my website, where you can also explore my services and read my case studies as well.