Top Shelf Canada

Top Shelf Canada, founded in 2017 by Joshua Lines, is a producer of hot sauces based in Sarnia, Ontario. The company's creation was sparked when Lines, then a bartender, noticed a lack of diverse, Canadian-made hot sauce options. He collaborated with his childhood friend, Wayne Blythe, a culinary scientist, to develop their flagship product. Lines' background includes experience in the food service industry, operations at Tim Hortons' head office, and market research, which has informed the company's direction.

The company's core business revolves around creating and selling premium, flavour-focused hot sauces as an alternative to vinegar-heavy, imported options. Their products, such as the "Front Street" line, use a fire-roasted red pepper base, Canadian maple syrup, and sulfite-free lime juice. The product lineup includes different heat levels, from mild to hot, catering to a range of consumer preferences. Top Shelf Canada positions itself as a proudly Canadian brand aiming to compete with major international condiment companies.

The business operates through multiple channels, selling directly to consumers via its website, as well as through retail stores and wholesale to restaurants. The company has achieved placement in major grocery stores across Canada. In August 2022, Top Shelf Canada secured $30K in funding from the i.d.e.a. Fund, an accelerator/incubator, to support its growth. The company's mission is rooted in supporting the Canadian economy and promoting self-reliance by offering high-quality, domestically produced goods.

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