Local artisan company Lindsay’s Gourmet Compound Butter has seen a rise in customers after spreading the word via social media. And founder Lindsay Rose gives credit to Niagara College’s Research & Innovation division for its help in her success.
The specialty food company wanted to increase promotion of its products to a wider audience. These products, says Rose, are “finishing” butters, infused with fresh herbs, spices, and seasonings, are kept frozen and then used as needed to add gourmet flavours to any dish.
“Social media is a necessary component of my business. I knew I was not utilizing the platforms available to my benefit,” explains Rose, who looked to the Business & Commercialization Solutions team at R&I to help with identifying a specific customer base and establishing a stronger social media presence.
The research team, through a grant from the Ontario Centres of Excellence, undertook several audits to define customers, external competitors, and key performance indicators. The objectives were to establish the target demographic for Facebook and Instagram, create and increase brand awareness and build effective social media content.
The team of students and staff learned that while Lindsay’s Compound Butter already had a Facebook page, it was not performing to its full potential, says Rose.
“I learned how to post effectively, read analytics and to enjoy the process,” explains Rose, adding she was also given training on how to build awareness through a new Instagram account. Rose also posted a five-minute video to her website and YouTube channel introducing new customers to her gourmet butter and offering an array of recipe ideas.
“With more effective posts on both platforms I am realizing an increase in product awareness, engagements and sales,” says Rose. “Most importantly, they gave me the tools to feel confident with my approach to social media applications.”
Since starting Lindsay’s Gourmet Compound Butter in 2015, Rose has been involved with successful partnerships with the College’s R&I division over the years, thanks to government funding. The Canadian Food & Wine (CFWI) Innovation Centre provided guidance and expertise, for production, labelling, and the company’s unique rustic packaging. Lindsay’s also worked with R&I’s Business & Commercialization Solutions team previously for help with website development, along with sales and marketing strategies.
“It is a privilege to partner with Niagara College Research & Innovation. The staff, students, and professors have a goal to help us succeed and their knowledge and experience are invaluable,” says Rose. “If they do not have the answers they have the resources to find the answers. Often they have the answers before you even ask the question!”
Find more information about the company:
Instagram: Instagram.com/ lindsays_butter
