Founder Spotlight: Maïlys Torterat (Big Sister)
Meet Maïlys Torterat:
BIG sister stands as the ultimate vegan showcase, a hospitality business game-changer. Embodying a neo-gastro coffee shop concept. Sacrificing our happiness is not an option, we build a brand new business model, requesting way less energy, way less water, 0 life, and only good vibes. As true optimists, we aim to bring meaning back to human lives catapulting veganism into the mainstream future.
Startup Stage:
Bootstrapped, ready to seed. The concept was born in 2021 from our flat in West London, and we launched our first BIG sister Café, breaking barriers, in France in 2022 - a country known for its food culture mainly turned toward the love of animal products. We wanted to test our business model; if it’d work in Nancy, it would work anywhere. Starting there allowed us full control to make adjustments based on feedback, refining our niche in the hospitality landscape. We introduced a home-like 100% vegan café, bootstrapped with love and passion, affectionately dubbed 'the lab,' where we could playfully experiment with cutting-edge business models and craft mouthwatering recipes. With not much, we build something huge and scalable. Our homemade food, infused with the chef's innovative techniques, elevates vegan cuisine to new heights of taste and satisfaction. You’ve never seen vegan trompe-l’oeil desserts or fine-dining brunch vegan food anywhere else in the world. After just seven months of activity, our business model has proven profitable, boasting an impressive 77% margin and experiencing a remarkable 237% increase in Gross Revenue within the first 10 months. We have been awarded “Best vegan food experience 2022” by the UK magazine LUXlife, which gave us strength amid the challenges of day-to-day routine. This award caught the eyes of the UK government, and we are working with them to expand the brand overseas. Additionally, we participated in the competition “The next unicorn” by Crowdcube & James Watts, CEO of Brewdog, and we were shortlisted among the last 50 out of more than 750 international companies. What's more, we're proud to share that our restaurant operates with 60% less energy consumption per meal than a typical eatery, having used a mere 8K KWH of green electricity for the entire year, serving more than 15K meals. We build a specific business model that is the key to taking action in facing climate change. Always keeping in mind our vision and incarnating the change Earth needs, we are now ready to scale our concept and reach the broader audience necessary to make a significant impact. As part of our expansion plans, we're actively seeking investors to help us build our first establishment in the UK, where BIG sister was born and meant to go back. With support, we aim to spread our message, inspire people and create a positive and sustainable dining experience that leaves a lasting impression on the world.
Location:
Nancy, France
When did you launch the business?
May 2022
What led you to where you are today?
Having the mindset of a leader, I knew entrepreneurship was my path, even though I very much enjoyed working in the corporate tech environment. I needed a strong 'why' to take my career to the next level, and that's precisely what happened with BIG sister. My master degree in philosophy and my passion for branding helped me to develop a strong brand identity. Now, as a mission-driven co-founder, I strive to inspire and empower people to effortlessly take action against climate change while having fun.
What do you wish you knew before embarking on your entrepreneurial journey?
I think I would have loved to know how difficult it would be emotionally. I knew I would have to give it my all, especially as a woman founder, I became my brand, and have no day off when it comes to representing it. Actually, I knew this, but I didn't understand the depth of it before living it. Vulnerability and authenticity are key to coping in this world at the same time, as a woman, being vulnerable can easily be used against you.
What is the most difficult decision you've had to make regarding your business so far?
The most difficult decision I had to make regarding our business was moving back to France. Although I had a good and fulfilling life in London, with great job and supportive friends, I realized that building BIG sister the way I envisioned wasn't feasible in London at that time. Ultimately, I had to prioritize the growth and potential of my business over personal attachments. It was a heart-wrenching choice, but I knew I had to trust my instincts and take the leap. Looking back, I believe it was the right move to make, and it has been a vital step in the journey of realizing our vision for BIG sister.
What can you help the VEGPRENEUR community with?
I would be happy to share our expertise and knowledge about the hospitality industry and provide insights into how we work - we need 60% less energy per meal than a classic restaurant are 0 food waste as well. This could help other entrepreneurs navigate challenges and make informed decisions. Networking with like-minded individuals can foster collaboration and potential partnerships. I am very open to sharing our story, feedback, experience, and help.
How can the VEGPRENEUR community help you?
Connecting with a community of entrepreneurs like VEGPRENEUR would help me build more trust, grow, and learn from like-minded individuals. I am hoping to find the right partners to help develop BIG sister. I'm very grateful and excited to have the chance to connect with inspiring humans working towards an optimistic and sustainable future.
Fun fact about you:
I am a true fan of music, obsessed with old-school hip-hop, soul, jazz, and rap music. I have THE NOTORIOUS BIG tattooed on my arms, along with G-Funk Era.
Anything else you would like to share?
To all entrepreneurs out there, be obsessed about the journey, not the result. The 'why' is what matters; the 'how' will find its way.
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