CLEVELAND — We all know the saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” but for Northeast Ohio entrepreneur Ethan Holmes, apples are more than just a notion. They’re a vessel, helping him create a legacy.
It's a venture Holmes began when he was just 15-years-old.
"I just went to my grandfather and said, You make everything from scratch, show me how to make applesauce," explained Holmes. "And then we went in the kitchen. He showed me how to wash the fruit, boil it, and turn it into applesauce."
Since the inception of Holmes Mouthwatering, the applesauce recipe has evolved and now includes three flavors: original, apple pie cinnamon and strawberry peach. However, they're all manufactured to remind you of home.
"It's all natural applesauce product, homestyle inspired or unlike any others because we have chunks of real fruit," explained Holmes.
While Holmes was able to bring his family recipe to store shelves, like his product, the journey wasn’t a smooth one.
Holmes explained his journey in the beginning saying, "I heard a lot of no's originally, and that allowed me to kind of figure out, 'okay, what are the gaps in my business? How can I improve?'"
But he wasn’t discouraged by those who didn’t see his vision. He just sought out more people who did.
"So over the last two years, we raised a little bit over $500,000 after going through a few accelerators," said Holmes. "That allowed us to meet angel investors, start raising capital pivot, and we wanted to be more competitive as a brand."
Equipped with valuable feedback and capital from supporters, Holmes Mouthwatering Applesauce underwent a rebrand in 2021. The evolution allowed Holmes to be even more intentional with his packaging—sharing his story directly with each customer.
The original packaging highlights the company's origins with images of Holmes' grandfather and son, Oliver. The apple pie cinnamon is dedicated to production and the local orchards that initially helped to supply the company. And lastly, the strawberry peach represents community, and the way the company hopes to make a difference with the youth.
After 15 years, his applesauce is both kid and adult approved—but Holmes said this is just a slice of what’s to come for the brand.
"You know, we're more than just applesauce. However, that is our focus. We want to be heroes in that category, and then we want to expand to other products, whether it's beverages, maybe children's snacks," Holmes explained.
And as the Holmes Mouthwatering Applesauce journey continues, it won’t forget its roots. Passing the recipe or entrepreneurial spirit from one generation to the next.
"It feels like I'm passing the torch," said Holmes. " I see it as an opportunity to create a generational change for me. Hopefully one day, I have two kids and I see it as inspiration to, I guess, to do something new."
Holmes Mouthwatering Applesauce is available at Walmart locations across the state of Ohio, plus your local Market Districts. The products are also available from purchase through the company's website.
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