Julian Metcalfe On Going From From Zero to $2 Billion: The Tenacity and Grit Behind Building a Successful Business

Julian Metcalfe, founder of Itzu and Pret-a-Manger, shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing that every business experience comes with failures or 'bumps.' He addresses the inevitability of facing setbacks in business, stating that true success cannot exist without encountering hardships. Metcalfe believes that the way entrepreneurs respond to these challenges is critical, advising to pivot and adapt as necessary.

Throughout the conversation, he reflects on the operating environment for businesses in the UK, highlighting how rising costs make it challenging to start and maintain businesses. He stresses the importance of connecting with customers and prioritizing product quality, describing the deep relationships he nurtures with suppliers and consumers alike. The discussion shifts to his success with Itzu and Pret-a-Manger, dissecting the idea that success requires continuous improvement rather than a single breakthrough moment.

Metcalfe also emphasizes the importance of the right team and cultivating a supportive work environment. He shares the four core values behind Itzu's work culture—care, growth, trust, and pride—as critical for long-term success. Reflecting on missteps and the inevitability of criticism, he insists that constructive feedback from customers is invaluable.

As the episode concludes, Metcalfe reiterates the importance of tenacity, resilience, and a clear vision for entrepreneurial success, urging future entrepreneurs to embrace the journey, with all its ups and downs.