Akron Honey: Akron’s Sweet Spot
How did one little plot of land in Akron develop into a flourishing honey business? The answer is a combination of time, energy, and a whole lot of “Honey Loves''. Wesley The Keeper started this business with a passion for urban farming and connecting people in the Akron area. He started the process by researching beekeeping strategies and teaching himself new methods. This atypical process allowed for more creativity to experiment with unconventional methods of beekeeping, and the creation of the unique flavors Akron Honey is known for.
Currently, Akron Honey sells four dynamic flavors of honey: Raw Wildflower Honey, Habanero Honey, Hibiscus Honey, and Bourbon Barrel Honey. The magic of their honey is the versatility of flavor combinations in almost every meal, drink, and spoonful. They constantly explore new flavor pairings to add to their inventory. Most of the inspiration for their flavors comes from the beloved “Honey Loves”. The term categorizes the dedicated people who are loyal and passionate about spreading the news about this incredible honey. Wesley describes them as the heroes of their business and the fuel driving their growth.
What makes Akron Honey special is its honeybee business model. Honeybees flourish within their communities and don’t need excessive resources to create honey. They thrive by selflessly serving their communities and assisting those in need. Wesley takes this same approach and believes that if we all thought a little bit more like the bees, our world would look very different.
Along with making their products, Akron Honey is passionate about educating future generations about the importance of the bees’ work in our ecosystem. Members of the Akron Honey team teach a beekeeping curriculum to third graders at St. Vincent St. Mary elementary school in Akron. They emphasize the job of the beekeeper isn’t simply to save the bees, but to value their importance in the world around them.
In the hive, bees do their work as they are programmed to do. When fellow bees are hurt or sick, they carry them out of the hive. They sacrifice themselves if they are no longer able to complete their work. In a similar way, Akron Honey aims to use its local resources to serve the community. By listening to the advice of the “Honey Loves”, they create an open and collaborative business environment. After years working in corporate America, Wesley desired to move away from the large business model. Even after being offered an investment after their appearance on Cleveland Hustles in 2016, they turned it down in order to continue planting their roots in Akron neighborhoods. Ultimately, these close relationships developed with customers are what sparked the success of Akron Honey. He notes, “It’s not a me thing, it’s a we thing”. As they continue to grow, the team is looking forward to opening a new facility in the Akron area.
Where to purchase Akron Honey:
Mustard Seed
Giant Eagle Market District
Whole Foods (coming soon)
Geraci's Pizza
The Hills Market (Columbus)
The Produce Place
LeeAngelo's
Celia's
Blackbird Baking
Heinen’s
The Produce Place
The Farmer’s Rail
Nosh Pantry
HiHo Brewery
Online
Follow @AkronHoney on Instagram for updates!
Wesley’s Akron Bucket List Recommendations:
Mustard Seed Cafe in Highland Square
The Farmer’s Rail
Cascade Valley Metropark
Towpath Trail
LeeAngelo's - Hot Chicken Sandwich
HiHo Brewing Company
