Who we are....
We create and self-distribute seasonal kegged cocktails and sangrias around Ohio where quality, quick-service and volume are valued. We've created a local brand and niche in the alcohol industry that we believe can grow to a national brand!! Our drinks can be found in Cleveland, Columbus, Toledo, Dayton and their surrounding suburbs.
What do we value?
Most importantly, we value exceptional taste. Additionally, pre-batched cocktails also have some significant advantages: they ensure consistency; perfect proportions; and fast serving. Kegged cocktails also reduce a bar's waste by eliminating heavy pours (industry average is 20% loss to over pours). During the busiest times, they also reduce strain on bartenders. Our kegged cocktails work on commercial beer draft systems, meaning there is no additional equipment required.
Where we're going?
With the success of our cocktails and sangrias on draft (on-premise), we've embarked on canning our drinks and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
Our campaign....
It’s been amazing to see an idea become reality, and now having proven our business model, we are looking to take the next step. We want to grow outside of our current sales area, so we need to increase our sales force, build brand awareness through improved marketing campaigns, expand our distribution and continue building through casino partnerships.
We know we could achieve this organically through operating cash flow, but it will take time, and we are impatient to see progress this coming year, so any contribution would be greatly appreciated - and also make you a part of our story and success!
Funding Breakdown
Here's where your donation will be used towards:
- $2.500 Marketing/Sales Campaign
- $5,000 On/Off-premise inventory (kegs/cans,supplies)
- $2,500 Equipment
- $5,000 Sales Staffing
The Perks
Here's what your donation will get you:
○ $10 - Social Media Shout-out!
○ $25 - 20oz Duck Island Cocktails Drink Tumbler
○ $40 - Women's Duck Island Cocktails T-shirt
○ $40 - Men's Duck Island Cocktails T-shirt
○ $60 - T-shirt and Tumbler
○ $100 - T-shirt/Hat/Tumbler/Social Media Shout-Out
○ $500 - Custom Duck Island Cocktails Barrel Head sign
○ $1000 - 128oz Duck Island Cocktails mini-keg (sorry....alcohol not included via crowdfunding)
My background...
Hi, my name is Jim Waltz, and when I was growing up, like a lot of people I wanted to be an entrepreneur, although, I never really knew what business I wanted to get into.
After earning a BA in Business from Kent State University, in Ohio I began the corporate grind and quickly realized that it was not for me. So, back in 2009, with an understanding wife and a 1-yr old, we left Ohio and moved to North Carolina where I went back to school and earned an A.S. in Viticulture/Enology and we began life in the alcohol industry.
Once you understand fermentation, it leads you down a rabbit hole to learn how to make other alcohols. My curiosity eventually lead me to become both a Head Brewer and Head Distiller. In 2015 I was recruited by the owners of the Southern Tier Brewery in Lakewood, NY as the Head Distiller to help them launch the Southern Tier Distilling Company.
Although I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Southern Tier, the itch to start my own business kept coming back. It seemed obvious that the business would be in the alcohol production industry, but I didn’t just want to be another craft brewer or local distillery.
So in 2019 we launched Duck Island Cocktails!!!
The Impact
With our proven business model and products, we will make an impact in the beverage industry. Our goal is to make some noise and standout in a very profitable industry.
Risks & Challenges
As with any business venture, risks are always there. However, over the past year, our products have been well received and we’ve forged trust and credibility in our markets. This helps to minimize your risk, so now we can forge ahead with the challenge of growing with a smart/calculated approach together.
Other Ways You Can Help
If you are unable to contribute but like our story, you can help us get the word out!! Please share via word-of-mouth or on your social media platform. Instagram @duck.island.cocktails; Facebook Duck Island Cocktail, Twitter @DICocktails
