My guest today is Luke Vernon, Managing Partner of Ridgeline Ventures. Ridgeline Ventures is an independent investment group that provides founders and brands a unique alternative to traditional investment firms. Some of their investments include Cotopaxi, Bobo’s, OROS, and Pro’s Closet. Previously he was the CEO of Eco products, which he grew from $1mm to $80mm. We discuss his learnings as an operator, why he invests in consumer brands where other investor interest has softened, the benefits of being a family office and how he thinks about investment timelines.

What were three of your biggest learnings growing Eco Products from $1mm to $80mm?
Since you also started Luke’s Circle and helps companies find talent, what is the key to hiring the right people?
After Eco Products sold, what eventually got you thinking of becoming an investor?
How did Ridgeline Ventures form?
Why doesn’t Ridgeline take outside capital?
There’s been alot of funds that have pivoted or moved away from investing in consumer brands. What are the opportunities that you’re focused on?
What’s your due diligence process?
Pricing strategy in each channel
How to scale the operations of the business
How long does it take to scale?
Food manufacturing
Self manufacturing
Great vehicles to finance CAPEX
What were some of your learnings during COVID?
How can a board provide value to a company?
What’s one thing you think is overlooked when investing in consumer businesses?
What’s one book that inspired you personally and one book that inspired you professionally?
1. Endurance by Ernest Jackelin
2. Blue Ocean Strategy
What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve received?

Luke Vernon (Ridgeline Ventures) - Why family offices are great investment partners for brands, investment timelines and do brands need product innovation to succeed?

Consumer VC