Summary:
Mike Adair transitioned from finance to founding Red's All Natural, now on track for $300 million in revenue
Early challenges included manufacturing hurdles and the hustle of selling burritos from a station wagon
Customer feedback led to pivotal product adjustments, including downsizing the original burrito
Opening their own manufacturing facility in 2017 was a turning point for quality control and scalability
Strategic retail partnerships and a focus on team culture have fueled 200% growth over five years
After six years in a finance role that left him uninspired, Mike Adair decided to chase his passion, leading him to an unexpected venture: Red's All Natural, a frozen burrito and breakfast sandwich company now on track for $300 million in revenue.
The Birth of Red's All Natural
Adair's entrepreneurial journey began with a simple love for his wife's homemade burritos. Named after his rust-colored rescue dog, Red's was officially launched in 2009. The early days were fraught with challenges, from finding a USDA-regulated manufacturing facility to the hustle of selling burritos out of his station wagon.
Image Credit: Courtesy of Red's. Mike Adair.
Listening to the Consumer
Adair quickly learned the importance of customer feedback. An initial 11-ounce burrito was too large and expensive, leading to a pivot that resulted in a smaller, more convenient product. This adaptability has been key to Red's success, with the company now offering a range of products from breakfast burritos to high-protein, gluten-free breakfast sandwiches.
Image Credit: Courtesy of Red's
Overcoming Manufacturing Hurdles
Seven years in, Adair tackled one of the biggest challenges: co-manufacturing. The decision to open their own facility in South Dakota in 2017 was a game-changer, allowing Red's to maintain control over product quality and scale production to meet growing demand.
Strategic Growth and Partnerships
Red's growth strategy has been deliberate, focusing on the right retail partners and learning from early missteps. The company's products are now available in major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Costco, contributing to a 200% growth over the past five years.
Image Credit: Courtesy of Red's
The Future of Red's
With a strong team and a clear focus on quality and convenience, Adair is excited to continue expanding Red's presence in the breakfast and snack categories, proving that passion and perseverance can turn a simple idea into a multimillion-dollar business.
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