Larry Finnson

Topics

Presentations

he Candy Men Can: The Creation of the Clodhoppers Brand
This presentation explores the journey Chris & Larry took, to take Clodhoppers from Emery's Grandma's kitchen to the shelves of Wal-Mart, USA. From start up to acquisition, this story has got it all.

Everybody's Got A Story: Personality Sells the Product
A key element to the success of Clodhoppers was Chris & Larry's ability to leverage their story into millions of dollars worth of free publicity.  Hear how they did it!

Summary Profile

Chris Emery and Larry Finnson are two of Canada's great young entrepreneurs. As the creators of Clodhoppers candy, they took Chris' grandma's recipe and developed it into a multi-million dollar business. Their youthful and energetic style and never-say-die attitude led Clodhoppers to a point where it was ranked amongst the "Top Ten Food Companies in Canada" by Food in Canada magazine. They experienced a 1000% increase in gross income during their first three years in business. Chris & Larry have been recognized for their sales and marketing techniques in media and publications. In 2003, they were featured on CNN's Mavericks of the Morning and in Fortune's Small Business magazine. In 2004, Clodhoppers was named as one of "Canada's Fastest Growing Companies" by Profit magazine.

In 2006, Chris & Larry sold Clodhoppers to Brookside Foods, a leading Canadian chocolate manufacturer. Driven by the thrill of entrepreneurism, they are experts in opening key doors in the business world and developing unique brands. Chris & Larry are currently poised to launch their next business venture in 2010.

Client Testimonials:

"Your luncheon address was both entertaining and informative. You obviously had a dream, took a risk and are capturing the success of being independent businessmen. Thanks again for helping make our Conference so very informative and enjoyable."

Canadian Meat Council

"Your presentation was not only extremely informative, but also, wonderfully entertaining. The response we received from the attendees on your presentation was exceptional. The stories of your trials and tribulations on starting a candy company kept everyone entertained."

Packaging Association of Canada, Ontario Chapter

"I traveled the country with Chris and Larry for a few months in 2009 and 2010, and it was a great experience. Not only did they teach me about how you can be a success in business, they taught me how you could have a real laugh while you were learning. These two guys are crazy, but they're smart. And anyone who wants to be entertained while they learn some of life's great lessons, then I say book 'em!"

Peter Mansbridge, Anchor of The National, The CBC's English television's nightly newscast