Wild Carrot Herbals

Wild Carrot Herbals has long been a cornerstone of Enterprise, Oregon’s business community. The company was experiencing rapid growth, with demand outpacing production capacity. Jody initially believed relocating from Enterprise to a larger facility in Central Oregon was the solution to scaling up operations and reducing lead times.

In 2023, OMEP initiated a comprehensive analysis that included a SWOT analysis, articulation of the brand’s values, vision, and mission, performed an operational value stream map and an assessment of  production capability against demand. OMEP’s analysis revealed that Wild Carrot Herbals was operating at only 25% machine utilization. This inefficiency was causing significant delays and inability for the company to keep up with consumer demand, thus limiting the company’s growth potential. A buffered stock model supported a viable forecasting process and a new production model increased machine utilization, without additional equipment or space. 

As a result of keeping the business in Enterprise, Wild Carrot Herbals retained local jobs, avoided the purchase of new equipment and land and the cost of construction for a new facility. The company was able to triple production capacity within the existing facility and purchase new equipment, as well as acquiring an adjacent building, expanding the operation. Wild Carrot Herbals’ success story demonstrates how strategic operational changes can lead to substantial growth without the need for relocation. By staying in Enterprise, the company continues to be a vital part of the local economy, supporting the business community and providing stable employment and positioning Wild Carrot Herbals for sustainable, long-term growth in their hometown of Enterprise, Oregon.