Nestled in County Wexford, Ireland, Bean and Goose Chocolate has crafted distinctive, sustainable chocolates for over a decade. Co-founded by Karen and Natalie Keane, this family business has blossomed from a humble kitchen startup into a vibrant workshop employing a dozen people.
Karen, 54, shares how Bean and Goose began 11 years ago with a vision to create a chocolate brand that delighted the palate and celebrated Ireland’s unique landscapes and flavours. “We wanted to create a chocolate brand that was sustainable and ethical and celebrated Ireland, the landscape, and the form that we have”, she explains.
Innovation plays a crucial role in Bean and Goose’s identity. The Irish countryside inspires the chocolates’ shapes, and a dedicated design team carefully crafts designs. Karen and Natalie develop every flavour in-house, showcasing local ingredients and collaborating with Irish producers and illustrators to tell a story through their products.
“Being a female entrepreneur does have its challenges. You have to explain yourself and your business more than a man would have to”.
However, Karen is candid about her challenges as a female entrepreneur in the food industry. “Being a female entrepreneur does have its challenges. I think you have to explain yourself and your business more than a man would have to”, she admits. Early on, their chocolate business was not always taken seriously, a situation Karen believes would have been different had they been men.
Balancing multiple roles is also a reality for many women on her team, who often juggle work with caregiving and other commitments. Bean and Goose strives to accommodate these demands with flexible working hours, fostering an inclusive environment that supports women’s workforce participation.
Reflecting on the support needed to grow the business, Karen highlights the importance of financial assistance and mentorship. “We have had financial help from Enterprise Ireland and our local leader funding, which is excellent. Mentorship is critical as well. Networking with people and having business mentors helps you along the journey”. Bean and Goose’s journey exemplifies how passion, innovation, and community support can transform a small home venture into a thriving business honouring its roots while pushing boundaries. Their story is not just about chocolate, it’s about resilience, female empowerment, and celebrating the richness of Ireland in every bite.