Q&A with Louis Bedwell

At Chickpea Marketing, we love speaking to inspirational people working in the food and drink industry.

We want to hear more about people’s career journeys and the things they’re excited about. Plus, we’re especially keen to find out about the role that health plays in the current food and drink environment.

That’s why we’re going to be sharing monthly Q&As to provide you with valuable insights from influential people that leave you feeling inspired.

Our next interview is with Louis Bedwell, Managing Director at Mission Ventures.

Louis tells us about his career path, the power of helping people and the brands he’s most excited about right now.

I hope you enjoy our conversation!

Corrine (C): Hi Louis! Can you please tell us a bit about you and your current job? 

Louis (L): I'm Managing Director at Mission Ventures. We're a consultancy focused on the future of Food. We work with retailers, manufacturers, and investors to help them identify, accelerate and invest in the opportunities created by the food revolution. 

We work with retailers like Sainsbury's, brands like Warburton's and large funders like Impact on Urban Health. We use our proven brand-building process and engage with start-ups that will deliver these partners' future growth.

We believe that entrepreneurs can help us build a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable food industry.

C: How did you get into your area of work? 

L: I spent some time helping to build one of London's largest incubators. We looked after more than 200 businesses in sectors like Robotics, architecture, fintech and fashion. I loved helping entrepreneurs and became fascinated with building networks and support systems to help them move their ideas forward. 

I always loved Food, drink and nutrition - when I was offered the chance to join the Mission Ventures team, I jumped! 

C: Sounds like a super interesting career journey so far! If you could provide one tip for someone looking to learn more or gain more experience in your line of work, what would that be?

L: I found my role as a result of speaking to people, building a network and trying my best to be helpful. 

No matter your background, you will have a unique view, skill or experience that can benefit a startup. 

I still follow the rule today that if you give back to the world, value will return to you in bucketfuls. 

So my advice would be to learn, listen, network and try to help others. 

C: Great tips! What are you most excited about in your work at the moment?

L: The Food and Drink industry is at a crossroads. There is increasing consumer and regulatory focus on the food we eat and how it's made and sold. 

The government's junk food ban (HFSS legislation) and the ultra-processed foods debate pose opportunities to unlock a golden age of innovation in the UK. 

Currently, 1 in 3 children living in London are at risk of illness from their diet; this stat becomes even higher in poorer neighbourhoods. The industry is responsible for responding to this and creating healthier, convenient, and affordable food. Entrepreneurs can help us solve these problems.

C: The more we can do to drive momentum and deliver impact, the better! Can you tell us about a food and drink brand or organisation that has impressed you recently and why?

L: I love Insane Grain. The product creates a healthier version of Nik Nak crisps. It takes something familiar, and by using an ancient grain, it ensures it delivers a health benefit. The product tastes amazing and is priced in line with competitors. 

I also love the team at Vegbloc. They have a bright future in helping consumers to consume vegetables and whole foods in a fun and exciting way. 

C: Fantastic brands! Lastly (and you know we have to ask this!), do you have a favourite chickpea snack or meal?

L: A tough one! It's too hard to choose, so I'll have to give three answers: 

• Bold Bean: Queen chickpeas that taste so good you can eat them straight from the jar.

• Noisy Snacks: Curry-flavoured chickpeas. A unique but delicious product. 

• Jamie Oliver's chickpea curry recipe

A huge thank you to Louis! If you’d like to hear more, don’t forget to give Louis a follow on LinkedIn here.