Innisfil-based business Granolala.ca recently celebrated its one-year anniversary and its founder, Marion Knaus, told InnisfilToday that — though it’s been quite a ride — she feels like she’s just getting started.
Granolala, which is a gently toasted blend of oats, nuts and seeds, is offered in three varieties: Original, cranberry and blueberry. Since last fall, product has been available online and it's sold throughout Canada and the United States.
With a professional background as a Precision Nutrition Certified (PN Level 1) nutrition coach and member of the Certified Professional Trainers Network (CPTN), Knaus began developing Granolala in her kitchen more than a decade ago as she sought a healthy alternative to the cereals available in most stores.
Finally, after years of urging from friends and family — even AirBnB guests asked to take Granolala with them after their stay — Knaus founded Granolala.ca, with the help and encouragement of her supportive family, including her husband and business partner, Keith Hope, and their grown daughters.
“We have been amazed and are so grateful for the support and enthusiasm from so many wonderful people and other local companies in Innisfil,” Knaus said. “The community really supports small independent businesses. We, in turn, support our local suppliers."
A regular vendor at regional and local events, Knaus looks forward to providing product to more retail stores.
“We are thankful to Edwards Farm Store for their early support, where Granolala can be found on the shelf today,” she said.
Produced in a Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit inspected and certified kitchen, Granolala is a vegan product and it contains no preservatives or refined sugars. It is lightly sweetened with natural Ontario maple syrup.
Knaus said she loves to meet customers in-person, and purchasers can opt to have coloured tissue paper added to their bags throughout the holiday season.
She will be a vendor at the Snowy Days Shopping Soirée at the East Bayfield Community Centre in Barrie Nov. 18 and at the outdoor Gilford Winter Market at the Gilford Local Eatery Nov. 25.
A complete list of holiday markets and events can be found on Granolala.ca, in addition to ordering instructions. Orders can be picked up in Innisfil on Wilson Street if selected online. To learn more about the company, visit its website.
