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The cacao business is rapidly growing in popularity and there is an increasing number of people who are experiencing the healing and expanding benefits of this magical, chocolatey plant. If you are passionate about cacao superfood and you know your mission is to share cacao all over the world, maybe, becoming a distributor of cacao and setting you own cacao business is just for you.
Distributing high standard and quality cacao comes with the ability to support this plant from its source to consumer. As a distributor, you hold the responsibility of knowing how the cacao is grown and shared. Distributors make sure this process is handled with the highest of integrity and attention to detail. As a distributor, you address the supply chain of the cacao, farming practices, processing, consistency of the cacao, and of course, the distribution of cacao medicine.
Furthermore, when cacao is shared around the world and away from its origins, there is an underlying responsibility to the guardians of cacao. Mayans have been the guardians of this sacred plant and they remained connected to the cacao spirit and practice for thousands of years. In their everyday life. Now that we, Westerns, have this honour to share it worldwide, we also should carry with us the appreciation and gratitude for the ones that have been cacao growers and guardians for thousands of years.
3 Tips to Start a Cacao Business and Become a Distributor
1. Define Your Values and Vision
First, consider why you want to share and distribute cacao. Ask yourself what cacao has brought to your life and what your primary reasons for distributing and sharing this medicine are. Consider deepening your connection with the spirit of cacao by learning and honoring the history and quirks of this dynamic plant. Begin to dream up a vision of what kind of impact sharing cacao can make on your network and the world. Then, put your vision to paper and allow your ideas to take shape.
2. Connect with Great Cacao Spirit
An exciting part of becoming a cacao distributor is finding a source of cacao that is in alignment with your values and vision. This means searching for a source that can provide you with cacao for setting your cacao business that has your preferred farming and processing practices. Do your research! The highest quality cacaos are grown in dynamic, agroforestry systems and processed with love and attention to detail. Ultimately, these sourcing details are going to impact the planet and the quality of cacao medicine.
3. Cacao Network: Create a Community of Cacao Lovers
Connections and cacao are two beans in a pod. If you are wanting to distribute cacao you need a cacao network of connections to share it with. Having cacao as your passion and holding your business and sources to the highest of integrity will naturally attract the right buyers to you. In addition, the use of social media, content sharing channels, or a newsletter will help your visibility. Cacao is a highly versatile product, so there is a large opportunity to find your niche and what audience you share with. You could end up providing cacao for ceremonialists, yoga teachers, ecstatic dance leaders, women/men circle leaders or daily users, or maybe all of the above!
After your vision and source are established you will have to sort out some more logistical aspects of the cacao business. Here are three things to consider when you are setting up the business back end.
3 Tips for Cacao Distribution and Logistics
1. Shipment.
Do your research on worldwide shipment costs and options. There are many places in the world that grow cacao but do not have cheap options for shipping. Also, be mindful of customs fees and import rules of the country of destination. The country receiving your cacao may require lab documents or specifics on the product.
2. Resale.
If you are planning to buy and then sell cacao you need to become aware of your country’s food distributing rules and regulations. Cacao is considered a food and these products are well regulated in the Western World. You will need paperwork to legitimize your business, proof of taxes, and abide by handling laws.
3. Building your brand.
A big part of a sustainable business is having a coherent brand. Find your identity and what makes you unique. Having a consistent cacao product and an image people can relate to is important.
Remember, when you distribute cacao there are financial, social, environmental, and energetic cycles and consequences to the interactions and transactions. Always act with integrity and conduct heart-centered business!