Challenges
Busy producing and selling the product herself, Lau had little time and resources to strategize the next steps to grow her company. She wanted to create a budget, sell more of her product, and expand her product line, but did not know how. These steps would help grow her business as she envisioned when she brought the product to market; however, Lau did not know how to begin these steps.
Best Advice
Business Advisor Don Loewel from the Small Business Development Center hosted by Pasadena City College helped Lau learn and implement a growth strategy. In addition to the steps Lau wanted to take, Loewel provided direction on changes that needed to be made for the company to grow. “Maxine Lau is continuously trying to learn more about her business and being a successful entrepreneur,” says Loewel. “It’s the passion of their owner and the hard work of their team that makes Lahtt Sauce a success story.” For Lau, the one-on-one counseling sessions with Loewel were insightful and provided direction on managing finances, market development, and Lahtt Sauce’s share of the market.
Client Impact
Since Lau connected with the Los Angeles Regional Small Business Development Center, the company is now able to experiment with new flavors to expand its product line, generating more sales and increasing market share. While maintaining its Asian roots, Lahtt Sauce is currently introducing a new, modern version of its product. Today, the company is realizing a profit after only six months of being on the market. Lahtt Sauce is also expanding its appeal to other markets and changing the face of the Asian grocery aisle.
“I would encourage any entrepreneurs to work with [a SBDC] advisor. It’s been an immense resource for myself since I have zero background in this business. It’s a vital part of the business to start a business and have the success I have now. If I started any other businesses I would go back to the SBDC. I love it! Everyone there really wants to see me succeed. Having that support has really helped me keep going.” Maxine Lau, Founder & CEO Lahtt Sauce
