Kirsty Henshaw
Kirsty Henshaw, 37, mum of two and Founder/Managing Director of Kirsty’s.
A food manufacturing business based in North Yorkshire, specialising in free from foods. Albeit new into the world of manufacturing, Kirsty has run the company for 13 years and is incredibly passionate about free-from, inclusivity, health and nutrition.
- Tell us a little bit about your business…
Kirsty’s is a healthy & free-from brand. We manufacture ready meals, pizzas and desserts that are naturally free from gluten, wheat and dairy. We supply all the major multiples and many convenience retailers with both chilled and frozen produce. We care passionately about what goes into our food, how the ingredients are sourced and how it is produced.
- How did you get into the industry?
My now 17 year old son was born with severe allergies to nuts and dairy. I was catapulted into what was then a very unhealthy, dull and ambient category offering. Upon experimenting with different recipes of ice cream many years ago, I quickly realised there was a gap in the market for a free-from brand that was healthier, tastier and more accessible to those with food restrictions. I began creating small batches of ice cream and selling them through health food channels into independent retailers. When Tesco approached me to supply them, I very quickly realised I needed some support and capital. I applied for Dragons’ Den and became the youngest entrepreneur to receive backing from Peter Jones and Duncan Bannatyne in 2010. The brand ‘Kirsty’s’ was born shortly after, and we have never looked back. Free-from is our heartland and by staying true to our core values we have become one of the biggest and most recognised brands in the category.
- What are the biggest opportunities and challenges in your industry?
The food industry has been extremely challenging lately. Covid, Brexit and the war in Ukraine have been the perfect storm for our business. However, it also presents numerous opportunities for those who can adapt and respond effectively. Manufacturing in-house gives you a unique advantage in terms of agility and flexibility. Being able to control your production process allows you to respond quickly to market opportunities and tailor your offerings to meet customer demands.
- How would you describe your leadership style?
I believe my leadership style to be collaborative and empowering. I try to combine not only trust in my team but also back and support their ideas. I believe by valuing the contributions of others and empowering them to excel, you create an environment that breeds innovation, and success.
- How do you get the most out of the people who work for you?
We have a strict no ‘micromanagement’ rule at Kirsty’s. We empower and trust others to contribute their knowledge and skills. This approach encourages growth and cultivates a sense of ownership. I also try to create a positive and inclusive culture, taking into account individuals specific requirements, such as childcare and physical/mental health needs.
- What are the most crucial elements to your business running smoothly and being successful?
There are several crucial elements to running our business successfully;
Clear Vision and Strategy: Having a clear vision of what the business aims to achieve and a well-defined strategy to accomplish it, is crucial.
Strong Leadership: All my management team have come from larger manufacturing businesses, share the same values as myself and together we have instilled disciplines and process into the business.
Customer Focus: Understanding and meeting customer needs is essential for our business to grow. We consistently strive to improve our product offering to ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Communication: Clear and open communication within the business and with customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders is critical. It has played a huge part in our growth and survival these last 3 challenging years.
- How has the past 12 months been for you?
The past 12 months have presented many challenges, but I’m grateful to say that I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. It has been a difficult period for me personally and the team, but I remain hopeful we are out of the worst of it. Whilst it’s been tough, it’s also been testament to the strength of the amazing team we have here.
- What will the next 12 months look like for your business?
I am happy to say that the next 12 months look positive and exciting for our business. We have implemented strategies and made significant progress that positions us for a good 2024. I am confident that our hard work and dedication will achieve the results we all deserve.
- What are the highlights of your career so far?
One of the significant highlights of my career so far has been the build and opening of UK’s first fully free-from ready meals factory. It was extremely challenging, exciting and required huge effort and dedication. Just two months after we received the keys, the unforeseen Covid-19 pandemic struck, however I am immensely proud of the achievements we made during that time. The factory has become a symbol of resilience and adaptability.
- What’s the biggest business mistake that you’ve learnt from?
Since starting on my business journey, I have learned numerous valuable lessons that have contributed to my growth as an entrepreneur. Among these lessons, one stands out as the most significant: the importance of building the right team and quickly parting ways with those who do not align with your vision and values.
I have come to understand that success is not solely dependent on individual skills or talents but is greatly influenced by the collective strength of the team. Getting the right people on board, individuals who share my passion, vision, values, and dedication, is so critical to any SME.
- What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?
The first piece of advice is the importance of seeking help when needed. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking we must tackle every challenge on our own. Asking for help demonstrates humility and a willingness to learn. I have a few select people in our industry who I turn to regularly – I don’t think they mind too much 😉
I always try to help others in return.
Secondly, the piece of advice that I live by, is the mantra that “cash is king.” No matter how great your business concept or strategy may be, without proper cash flow management, you risk jeopardising the entire business operation.
