This week, we caught up with Hannah Glasson, the Founder of Intune, CBD drinks.
Urban Snacker: Hey Hannah Please tell us firstly, what is CBD?
Hannah: CBD stands for cannabidiol. Cannabidiol is one of over 100 cannabinoids in the hemp plant and is non-psychoactive. In basic biology terms, CBD interacts positively with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates mind and body, promoting balance (homeostasis for the nerds).
Urban Snacker: How did you get started and what made you choose CBD drinks as a product to create?
Hannah: I discovered the benefits of CBD whilst having treatment for breast cancer. I found it help me to feel calm, focus and work all the way through treatment. I’m from the drinks industry and previously ran The Story agency with my sister, building brands like Sipsmith and Tony’s Chocolonely. So I set about making CBD taste great and launched INTUNE in January 2020.
Urban Snacker: What were your main challenges and how did you overcome them?
Hannah: There have been two main challenges of launching a business just before a global pandemic hit. The first was definitely that we didn’t have an existing customer base when it started and some channels closed down. Luckily, independent grocers & cafes that were operating gave us a chance by taking on our drinks and they continued to work with us because consumers came back for more once they’d tasted them. We were able to stay afloat through those businesses and feel very lucky to be part of the independent London food & drink community. The second was the lack of human interaction and live consumer feedback on our drinks. We are so pleased to now be out sampling and serving up drinks at events with our electric CBD float Cosmo, having conversations with consumers and hearing what they think of INTUNE (they love our drinks)!
Urban Snacker: There has, in recent years been a number of cbd drinks popping up… What makes Intune different to/better than the rest?
Hannah: Our Originals are Great Taste Award winners and ideal for drinking straight out of the can during the 3pm slump when you may not want a coffee, but need to find your focus. Our new Mixers are unlike anything out there – we launched a Tonic+, Lemon+ and Ginger+ dialled up with CBD and interesting ingredients for low and no mixing moments. Serving up drinks from our electric CBD float Cosmo is also unique within the CBD space, and a lot of fun to boot.
Urban Snacker: What is your long term vision with your business?
Hannah: To bring the benefits of CBD to more people here and abroad through delicious drinks and memorable drinking experiences.
Urban Snacker: Who would you say, is your target market?
Hannah: Our target consumers span a wide range of ages, all united by the pursuit of quality. They are conscious consumers seeking out great tasting, innovative options within food & drink.
Urban Snacker: Its been fun speaking to you Hannah and thank you for your time.