The New Hotbed of CPG Companies

Everyone knows that Central Texas is synonymous with technology start-up companies. But did you know that it’s fast becoming a hotbed for consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies? In fact, there is thriving support community in an organization called SKU (formerly known as Incubation Station) that was formed in 2011 for the sole purpose for helping to create successful sustainable. CPG companies. Consumer brands including Austin Eastciders, WorldPeas, and Primize are all examples of thriving Central Texas companies that have been through the SKU program.

SKU — Which stands for “Stock Keeping Unit”, the identifying bar car code that appears on products — was started in 2011 by a group of successful CPG entrepreneurs, executives and investors who enjoy coaching and advising the founders of high-growth, early-stage product businesses. SKU’s extensive, eight-week programs are designed to accelerate and amplify the growth trajectories of promising startups.

Bridgepoint has enjoyed supported SKU and many of its participants since its early beginnings. “I’m fortunate to be working with such inspiring companies,” said Felipe Vega, Bridgepoint CFO Consultant. “They have such passion, core beliefs and values in every product produced, focusing on pleasing the new wave of health-conscious consumers.  It’s very rewarding to be involved in the evolution of some great consumer brands.”

Currently, there are seven “batch” companies that are participating in the SKU 4 spring accelerator program that recently had the opportunity to pitch their products “Shark Tank” style to a room full of investors and SKU mentors. The current batch companies include Better Bites Bakery, CM4, Moniker Guitars, Mythic Essentials, Siete Family Foods, Trophy Skin, and Wildway. For more information, visit www.sku.is.