Pictured: Evie Ward and Eliza Ward, Co-Founders of NutShed
Evie and Eliza Ward are Co-Founders of NutShed, makers of award winning peanut butters, raw energy balls and plant-based treats. This year they have introduced three new flavours of peanut butter to join their range; dark, decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter, a versatile smokey, slightly spicy Harissa Chili Peanut Butter, and a Very Crunchy Peanut Butter. NutShed currently has a team of seven with major plans for growth throughout Ireland in 2021 and sights on export in 2022. Together, Evie and Eliza have grown their business from a humble market stall in 2014 to a thriving business (NutShed currently has a team of seven with major plans for growth throughout Ireland in 2021 and sights on export in 2022), producing and wholesaling their gluten free, dairy free, plant-based treats into Ireland’s high end cafes and salad bars.
What was your first job?
My first job outside of working in my parent’s speciality food shop in Nenagh was 4th year work experience with the late, great Anne Keating of Baylough Cheese in South Tipperary. I loved the early mornings with Anne in the cheese room. She made a legendary cheddar cheese and had a legendary wit to match it. The opportunity to work with Anne and see the inner workings of a food production business inspired me to no end.
What would you regard as your greatest achievement to date?
I’m really really proud of the team and business Evie and I have created at NutShed. We feel really fortunate to love going to work each day.
In three words or less, how do you define success?
Time, happiness, freedom.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
My grandmother would often say “you’re no better and you’re no worse”.
How do you motivate yourself and your staff?
I’m very much a glass half full person when it comes to work,
so I really try to instil a can-do attitude around me – I really gain so much energy from that. It’s also really important to be forgiving. We’re not afraid of making mistakes at NutShed which creates a super nice relaxed environment for everyone.
How do you relax?
At the moment we are working at a really fast pace at NutShed, so by the weekend I am usually all about recharge. With less socials on the calendar these days, my weekends are solitary and serene. Essential oils, a little bit of yoga, some cooking and laying about with the dog are some of my preferred options.
What’s your motto?
“Done is better than perfect”, this is actually Evie’s motto, but I reiterate it in my head constantly. I usually fixate on getting things perfect, to my detriment.
What are your aspirations for the future of the business?