Candice Cake

The case tells the story of Candice Cake, a producer of premium desserts in Russia. The firm follows a philosophy of producing and marketing organic, sugar-free, and tasty pastries. Marina Martianova, the founder of Candice Cake, has successfully set up her business in a niche market for health-conscious customers in Russia. During a trip to the US, Martianova realized the untapped potential for her desserts in the US and started extensive research into the Californian market. She contacted key players in the field and built a small network of potential investors. To enter California and fund the expansion, Martianova has some decisions to make, including the entry mode and the investment option. The case addresses an entry mode dilemma, distinguishing between B2B and B2C options, both in physical and online sales. It also discusses various investor options from bootstrapping by family and friends, to an incubator program, to business angels, and to venture capitalists.