The Sunshine Approach
Introducer: Ben Bamford
Former Hershey exec, Don Larson says, “Find an idea that you’re willing to die for…and then start to really live.” After selling his possessions and moving to Mozambique to open a cashew company with a strong social mission, Don almost lost his life. That event and a deep sense that God has called him to this work has galvanized him to be even more resolute in building a company that helps transform the lives of his workers and those in his community.
The solution to many of the world’s problems is jobs. The Sunshine Nut Co. was founded on the belief that a value driven business – where dignity, love, and community come together with excellence could provide lasting social, economic and even spiritual change in some of the poorest countries around the world. Don is convinced there are many Christian businessmen just waiting to be challenged by their church to become what he calls “Economic Missionary Warriors.”
Use above Bio: and link:
Why A Former Hershey Exec Sold His Porsche To Build A Cashew Business In Mozambique
https://www.forbes.com/sites/robindschatz/2016/07/10/why-a-former-hershey-exec-sold-his-porsche-to-build-a-cashew-business-in-mozambique/?sh=11305c233fbb
Don Larson, Founder & CEO of the Sunshine Nut Company, developed a business model called the Sunshine Approach which has a quadruple bottom line – financial, environmental, social, and transformational. This business model’s aim is to develop world class food products in sub-Saharan African countries for the benefit of the entire value chain while providing a market for smallholder farmers. The business model also gives back the majority of shareholder proceeds (through donations) to be used for philanthropic projects targeting orphan care and farming community upliftment.
Don worked for 25 years in the food industry as a seasoned executive for some of the best companies before moving to Africa. Don left corporate life and a lifestyle of material wealth for one of purpose. In 2011, he and his family sold everything and moved to Mozambique, Africa where they have lived the last 8 years. In the last 6 years, Sunshine Nut Company cashews entered the US market and have gained space on the shelves of 3,000 of the best retailers in the USA (Whole Foods, Wegmans, Giant, etc.) and have expansion plans in Europe and Asia in 2020. The major theme of the Sunshine Approach business model is value driven business – where values such as dignity, love, and community come together with excellence.