Wild Prairie Soap Company, a proudly Canadian business, has been crafting premium skincare products such as soaps, lotions, and lip balms for over 25 years. While maintaining deep roots in domestic sales through its online store and retail partnerships across Canada, the company embarked on its export journey in 2017. Starting with Japan, Wild Prairie eventually expanded to larger markets, including Korea, which posed exciting new challenges for the team.
When Wild Prairie first engaged Greg Hastings and RIVR Solutions in 2021, the company was at a critical juncture. The team needed to streamline their manufacturing processes to handle high-volume export orders, including their first-ever container shipment to Korea. While their handmade products and attention to quality were unmatched, inefficiencies in workflow and production meant they weren’t fully prepared to meet demanding deadlines. As they scaled, it became clear that adopting a lean manufacturing mindset was essential for growth.
Greg and the RIVR Solutions team quickly got to work, helping Wild Prairie implement process improvements through lean manufacturing principles. Using a hands-on approach, Greg mapped out every step of production, timing and analyzing each task, which brought invaluable clarity to the manufacturing team. He ensured the entire group, not just management, was involved, fostering buy-in and a collaborative mindset. Greg’s role organically expanded into project management during their first container shipment to Korea, guiding the team to meet ambitious targets and deadlines with confidence.
The results were remarkable. Wild Prairie experienced noticeable efficiencies that translated directly into cost savings and improved margins. Every minute of production was optimized, a crucial achievement for the labor-intensive, handmade nature of their products. During their period of growth, the company doubled its workforce from 7 to 15 employees, and with Greg’s guidance, managed this transition seamlessly. By their next container shipment, the team had gained the skills and independence to handle production and export logistics on their own. They also implemented systems, such as Kanban cards, to streamline inventory management and avoid stock shortages, setting a strong foundation for continued success.
Beyond the operational improvements, Greg and his colleague Allister provided valuable all-around business support. Tanya Zurock, owner of Wild Prairie, described Greg as the “pusher,” keeping her motivated and task-focused, while Allister offered a gentler, behind-the-scenes advisory approach, highlighting grant opportunities and other resources. Together, they made Tanya feel less like she was “on an island,” providing practical solutions and moral support to guide her growing business.
Thanks to RIVR Solutions, Wild Prairie entered a new phase of manufacturing and exporting excellence. Tanya credits their partnership with instilling a lasting lean manufacturing mindset and arming her team with skills that continue to pay dividends. Whether for a company seeking to scale or one in need of refining its systems, RIVR Solutions has proven to be an invaluable partner in transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.
