Acquiring Minds

How to Reinvent a $1m Candle Manufacturer

63 snips
Apr 14, 2025
Adam Goldberg, owner of Seracon, a Montreal-based candle manufacturer and former costume jewelry entrepreneur, shares his fascinating journey of reinvigorating a struggling business. He discusses the crucial lesson of never going into business with friends and reflects on his mistakes, like over-hiring and trying to be an absentee owner. Goldberg also emphasizes the significance of employee engagement and recounts how he introduced unique maple syrup candles to help carve out their brand story, showcasing the blend of heritage and innovation in his approach.
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ANECDOTE

Early Career in Family Business

  • Adam Goldberg's father, an entrepreneur, built a large retail business (Buclair) similar to Joanne Stores.
  • Adam joined the family business at a young age, gaining experience in all aspects of retail.
ANECDOTE

Joining the Family Business

  • Unlike many younger generations, Adam joined his family business, prioritizing the opportunity to build wealth.
  • His father's approach was to give significant responsibility and let them learn from mistakes.
ANECDOTE

Family Business Dynamics

  • Adam's father fostered a challenging work environment leading to the siblings buying him out in his 50s.
  • Family businesses are complicated due to ego and succession issues, making them both tough and educational.
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