2023 has been a huge year – but nobody knows the ins and outs of the city better than the independent businesses that keep the cogs whirring – and so rather than us telling you what’s been going on this year, we’ve reached out to five different small business owners to give us the lowdown on 2023.
First up, Thiccc Sauce.
A lockdown success story that grew from humble beginnings in a home kitchen is now Leeds go-to for all your hot, sweet and unusual sauce needs.
We spoke to Luca, founder of Thiccc Sauce to find out what’s been going on in 2023, what to expect in the new year and even got some advice for newcomers to the indie food scene.
Keep reading to find out what was 2023 according to Thiccc Sauce…
It’s been one heck of a year! What have you been up to? Tell us about any major events, exciting moments etc.
2023 saw us move production into our own facility over in Holbeck under the train arches which has been a dream for us from the start. We have already outgrown this space and are looking to expand further next year into a bigger space to help grow production even further.
Back in May, we celebrated our third birthday by holding a indie market outside our warehouse where we invited all our other small business friends to trade and it was a great success. Look out for the next one in spring/summer 2024.
We were featured twice on the television on The One Show with Deborah Meaden and Sunday brunch which was pretty cool!
Amongst the huge list of collaborations in 2023, we were delighted to have our name on five beers with the likes of Vault City, Vocation and Tartarus.
Finally, we were awarded three Great Taste Awards back in august for three of our core range sauces.
What was one highlight from 2023 that you’ll always remember?
Having our Bourbon BBQ Sriracha featured in the new 101 best sauces in the world book by author Neil Ridley. We’ve been super proud of this sauce since we first launched it which is in collaboration with Makers Mark and Honest Burgers so are humbled that its been featured in an international recognised book of excellence.
What are you looking forward to in 2024?
In 2024 we are looking forward to working on some exciting projects and collaborations we have lined up and expanding the already extensive sauce range.
Where is one place that people should go and visit next year?
Coopers Yard in Holmfirth. Set to open in Feb 2024 and where our sister company Koben is opening up as a Texas-style barbecue smokehouse. Look out for more info on socials!
Leeds has a thriving indie community – what’s one piece of advice you’d give someone that’s looking to start their own business next year?
One bit of advice I would give is get out there and work together with other businesses on fun projects and collaborations. The power two brands can have together and fun it equals to is such a great kicker starter early on and will help you grow organically and build a great community around your business.
Read More:
- The Thiccc Sauce championing the indie food scene in Leeds
- This Leeds indie sauce is collaborating with national burger joint Honest Burgers and Maker’s Mark Whisky
- The Cheesy Living Co. reveals location of second modern deli in Oakwood
- The best Leeds indies X Thiccc Sauce collaborations
Feature Image – Thiccc Sauce via Instagram
