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Ken and Shiela Reyes-Lao, the founders of Cacao Culture, have proven that growth doesn't always mean getting ahead of everyone else. Their business is built on a philosophy that's not just about selling chocolate, but about helping more Filipinos discover the value of local cacao, the communities behind it, and the makers working to bring high-quality chocolate to the market.

Long before they became known for Philippine craft chocolate, Ken and Shiela were building careers in Manila. Ken came from a corporate and operations background, while Shiela worked in technology and project management. They eventually launched a tech startup in 2013, but a chance encounter with cacao, years later, changed the direction of their lives.

In 2019, during the pandemic, businesses struggled to find stable footing online. Cacao Culture, which relied heavily on Shopee to connect directly with customers, decided to make a surprising move. Instead of using their online platform to sell only their own products, they began selling products from other local chocolate makers. This move made sense for the couple, who realized early on that Philippine chocolate is still in its early stages.

The Reyes-Laos' decision to help other small businesses was not just a moral obligation but a calculated business move. By selling products from other chocolate makers, they allowed more entrepreneurs to keep going, helping more employees keep their jobs, and ensuring that the farmers they sourced from could continue to earn an income. Their story serves as an inspiration to other entrepreneurs who are looking for ways to make a positive impact.

Their business philosophy is built around the idea that growth doesn't have to be about outdoing others, but about helping the entire ecosystem move forward together. By selling their products through Shopee, they have made it possible for chocolate lovers from all over the country to discover and enjoy high-quality Filipino-made chocolate. The company has also helped other small chocolate makers reach more customers, further increasing their chances of success.

For the Reyes-Laos, cacao has become more than just a product; it has a story, a story about farmers, communities, culture, and Filipino identity. The couple's experiences have taught them that businesses are stronger when rooted in something larger than just lucrative goals. By championing the story of Philippine cacao and the communities behind it, they have created a loyal following and inspired a new generation of entrepreneurs to pursue their passion for chocolate-making.

Business Lessons from the Reyes-Laos

  • They grew the market, not just their market share.
  • They built around a purpose bigger than the product.
  • They used technology to connect people to their story.

The decision of the Reyes-Laos to help other small businesses has not only increased their profits but also helped to promote the local chocolate industry. Their success story serves as a reminder that growth doesn't have to be about outdoing others, but about helping the entire ecosystem move forward together.

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