Ep5: Bringing South American Yerba Mate Tradition to Canadian Shelves with Daniela Marin
Introducing a cultural tradition to a new market is no small feat, but Daniela Marin, co-founder of
No Se Llama Yerba Mate, has turned challenges into opportunities. In this episode of Resilient as F*k!, Daniela shares their journey of bringing the rich tradition of South American yerba mate to Canadian shelves.
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcast
In this episode of Resilient as F*k!, Daniela shares her journey of bringing the rich tradition of South American yerba mate to Canadian shelves.
Yerba mate isn’t just a drink—it’s a lifestyle rooted in focus, health, and community. But translating that message to a market unfamiliar with the product required resilience, creativity, and a strong commitment to brand values like sustainability and education. Daniela and her team faced regulatory hurdles, consumer skepticism, and a competitive retail landscape. Yet, they navigated these challenges with a clear strategy and a passion for their mission.
Key moments from the brand’s journey:
Educating Consumers
Building awareness started with simplifying the messaging around yerba mate’s benefits and cultural significance. Through visuals, videos, and grassroots efforts, Daniela helped Canadian consumers connect with the product.
Adapting Tradition
Leveraging cold brewing as an innovative way to reduce bitterness while maintaining the health benefits made yerba mate more appealing to North American audiences.
Resilience in Retail
Competing against lower-priced alternatives and navigating complex Canadian regulations solidified the brand’s commitment to quality and authenticity.
Key Take Aways
Simplify Your Message: Effective education requires clear, relatable communication that resonates with your target audience.
Leverage Feedback: Continuous improvement through customer insights helped refine branding and adapt to market needs.
Build Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with retailers who prioritize quality and sustainability opened doors and enhanced credibility
What Makes This Episode Unique
Daniela's episode highlights the power of resilience and innovation. From adapting traditional practices to creating a product that resonates with modern consumers, this episode offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs introducing niche products to new markets.
Resources discussed during this episode
For entrepreneurs navigating Canadian food and beverage regulations, check out the labeling requirements here.
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