Aug. 25—In addition to their extensive business training at Haywood Community College and endless experimentation to cement the Waynesville Soda Jerks flavor and brand, Chris Allen and Megan Brown got a little help along the way from an experienced coach.

John Forrester, a Waynesville resident who founded Forrester and Associates, met the couple at the Haywood Historic Farmers Market and took an early interest in their idea — something that eventually led to a business relationship with the Waynesville Soda Jerks.

"Working with John over the years has been instrumental to our growth," said Brown. "From the planning and execution of our production relocation in 2018 to fundraising for our automated bottling equipment, his assistance and insight has been a key component in the success of our business."

She pointed out that small business owners have many hats to wear and, at times, the tasks ahead can feel daunting and out of reach.

"Having John's wealth of knowledge in business, and in life, at our disposal allows us to feel more confident on our path forward," she said. "He keeps us on track for our growth goals and holds us accountable for the execution of those goals, which can be a challenge for us with a business and young family."

With Forrester's guidance, the Waynesville Soda Jerks have grown their business from a home-based basement apartment in 2013 to a stand-alone business with a retail shop and distribution in 150 locations across the region.

In addition, private-label agreements have been reached to produce soda for two of the largest tourist attractions in Western North Carolina — The Biltmore Estate and The Grove Park Inn.

Forrester has been a business consultant for over 45 years, developing and implementing growth strategies and efficiency for both start-ups and large corporations.

Forrester remembers meeting Allen and Brown at the farmers market in 2017. After helping out off and on over the years, he became more of a business coach as opposed to a mentor. In return, he's agreed to receive a small bit of equity in lieu of fees.

"To my mind, good consultants ask a great many questions and then add value by identifying and prioritizing the issues that hinder performance, framing the analysis and conversations needed to address those issues and helping guide the execution necessary to achieve business objectives," he said.

Though Forrester started out as an intermittent advisor, he has become so much more.

"He is an ally and mentor in business, a confidant and friend in our personal lives, and an honorary 'Jerk.' He has become an invaluable part of our our small business story and we look forward to seeing how our business continues develop with his guidance moving forward," Brown said.

Forrester believes the Waynesville Soda Jerks is in a good position to grow.

"A consultant arrives with no vested interest in the past, an open mind, and the ability to help clients explore their future, he said. "While many small businesses failed during the pandemic, the Soda Jerks scrimped and sacrificed to keep their business going — a testament to their grit and determination," Forrester said. "Second, the success of the recent relaunch of their private-label program speaks to the uniqueness of their offerings. Everyone approached is signing up."

Forrester said he believes the company is poised for growth and that the new capacity, brought online last August will see the company well into the future."

To reach Forrester, email www.jnforrester.com or call 904-608-033.