A spirited entrepreneurial journey
In 2019, Andy and Amy Szwejbka went on a distillery tour. Fascinated by what they learned, the couple set out to create a world-class distillery in Surf City, on North Carolina's Topsail Island.
Launched in 2023, Hidden Ships crafts and markets its own vodka, rum, gin, bourbon, and small-batch specialty spirits. But there's much more. "The art of distillation itself, is fascinating, and we saw a great opportunity to immerse visitors in it," says Amy. "So we share the intricate processes that transform raw ingredients into exquisite, flavor-packed spirits."
This immersion takes place in Hidden Ships' bar, store, and monthly classes. "In our classes, we teach patrons what they may be tasting and how to make their own Pre-Prohibition-Era cocktails," says Andy. "It's a fun and informative way to support our products."
A daunting search for working capital
In planning the distillery, the Szwejbka's saw an opportunity to establish sustainable distribution best practices in local and national markets. But the craft-distilling industry is known for being especially capital-intensive.
"Maintaining enough working capital to balance daily cash-flow requirements with an eye on growth has been a challenge since day one," says Andy. "Our first attempts at working with lenders were disappointing, with none willing to invest in such a new venture," he adds.
The capital we received created some breathing room to let us focus on mid-to-long-term growth.
— Andy Szwejbka
Fora Financial makes a difference
Fora Financial was the first financer to listen to Hidden Ships' origin story and review its financials. "We established a one-on-one rapport with our Fora Financial capital specialist," says Andy. "The capital he facilitated has created some breathing room to let us focus on mid-to-long-term growth."
Today, Hidden Ships Distillery anticipates rapid growth and innovation. "Fora Financial's quick service provided us with the capital we needed in days," says Andy. "We expanded our tour offerings and launched new mixology classes, among other advances, and we're constantly moving forward."
"We couldn't be happier with the relationship we've built with Fora Financial," says Andy.
Why Fora Financial
Why Hidden Ships Chose Fora Financial:
Fast, flexible, hassle-free funding.
Personalized support, flexible terms, and exceptional customer service.
Its total support of Hidden Ships' vision for success.