Wild Thingz founder Fliss Newland on Trump, cowboys and oysters

No comments

Fliss Newland Wild Thingz Sweets

Name: Fliss Newland

Job title: Founder

Company: Wild Thingz

What was your first job? Working in store at Lidl – it was during that exciting initial boom when the discounters were first really shaking things up. It was hard, hard graft but a huge learning experience.

What’s been your worst job interview? When put on the spot I pretended I could western ride (cowboy style) to get a summer Camp America riding instructor job. Still got the job and it was a very fun summer. Yee haw.

“I find it sad that the majority of what we all shop for is manufactured by 10 huge corporations”

What was the first music single you bought? It was that iconic first Shania Twain album, still so many bangers on there. Saw her live recently, she’s still got it.

How do you describe your job to your friends? I sell (amazing) sweets.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Being out and about doing anything where people are tasting Wild Thingz (samplings, festivals, trade fairs). I live for that in-the-moment, head-turn, wow response. This feedback as a ‘low-sugar and natural’ sweet is the fuel that pushes us forwards.

What is the least rewarding part? Oh lord, the admin. I always tease that as a founder I’m Chaka Khan (aka I’m Every Woman) – which sadly (for me) includes being finance, HR, and admin. Not my strong suit.

Copy of WildThingz-March25-FULLRES-166

What is your motto in life? Always, you do you.

If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? Is it cheesy to say working with this incredible team of talented women every day? Plus the level of trust, true flexibility, and fun that comes with it literally is living my dream. If so, free champagne.

Do you have any phobias? Climate anxiety, Donald Trump, factory farming, Love Island.

If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? See more challenger brands!

I find it sad that the majority of what we all shop for is manufactured by 10 huge corporations. There are only positives to backing challengers, bringing true consumer-first innovations which are almost always better options for people and for the planet.

What luxury would you have on a desert island? My cat, Callie.

What animal most reflects your personality? Probably a Jack Russell – high energy, loyal and vocal.

What’s your favourite film and why? That 80s comedy movie Airplane jumps to mind. Just so silly and reminds me of my best friend from school.

What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? There is quite an embarrassing video of me still on YouTube as a 16-year-old, recreating that Yeo Valley rap advert with my friends at home on their farm. Thank god it’s so low resolution.

Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? A dream person to work with would be the fabulous Daisy May Cooper. I feel she is the perfect Wild Thingz kinda mum. We are for the hilarious moments of parenting, the joy of childhood and the imperfect.

What would your death row meal be? Controversially, I’m a vegan that eats oysters (they are non-sentient, I will debate anyone that disagrees) and they are my absolute favourite. Forever and always my death row meal, and a Bloody Mary. Go out with a bang.