The Ex-Frito-Lay Executive Who Cracked the Code on Smoked Snacks

In this episode of Recipe to Revenue, Jared Drinkwater, founder of Low and Slow Snacks and former Frito-Lay executive, talks about why he left the corporate world to launch a “real wood smoked” snack brand—and the massive operational risks he took to do it.

Most snack startups look for a co-packer. Jared Drinkwater built a factory instead.

Watch or listen to learn more about:

• Why big snack brands use seasoning instead of real smoke
• How to build a manufacturing “moat” big CPG can’t cross
• The real difference between liquid smoke and wood fire 
• Why Jared built a factory when co-packers said “no”
• How to use Costco Roadshows to prove velocity 
• Why sampling beats paid media for taste-driven brands 
• How to win distribution in non-traditional retail (Home Depot)

Whether you’re a CPG founder debating manufacturing options or a marketer looking to disrupt a crowded category, Jared offers a masterclass in building a defensive moat through operations.