Jan 09 2025 42 mins
Florian de Chezelles, co-founder of The Salad Project, joins us for a conversation about his remarkable journey in the hospitality industry. From growing up in a lively family of five siblings to his transformative education at the prestigious Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne in Switzerland, Florian shares how these experiences shaped his communication skills and passion for hospitality. We delve into his early career with luxury giants LVMH and the Waldorf Hilton, where he honed his meticulous attention to detail and discovered his love for creating memorable experiences.
Fueled by passion and a desire for fulfillment, Florian embarked on an entrepreneurial journey with co-founder James, leading to the creation of The Salad Project. Despite initial challenges like limited savings and the unforeseen COVID-19 pandemic, they crafted a menu that resonated with a wide range of dietary preferences. Listen as we recount the amusing process of naming the business and the innovative strategies behind their menu development, which relied on personal preferences and customer archetypes rather than traditional market research.
Discover how The Salad Project has thrived with seven locations across London, thanks in part to savvy investors and the power of word-of-mouth marketing. Florian also emphasises the game-changing role of digital technology in their business model, which positioned them ahead of the curve during the pandemic. Throughout this journey, the complementary partnership between Florian and James has been key, blending their skills and mutual respect to build a successful and enduring brand. Join us for a blend of inspiring stories, practical advice, and a celebration of entrepreneurial spirit in the hospitality industry.