Head-to-head: Custom cereals - Part 4

This is the fourth part of a series of posts about my recent experiences ordering from [me]&goji and MixMyGranola, the leading U.S. custom cereal manufacturers.

In short, both companies have done a great job and are creating a good product and ordering experience. In my opinion, there is no clear winner, at least not in these early stages of their evolution. I would have no hesitations ordering from either of them again.

Going through the entire process from ordering to eating has been a fun experience. Certainly the novelty factor alone gives custom cereals certain appeal. It is an innovative concept that has the potential to shake-up the breakfast industry.

But, I have a few questions and concerns:

1. Will custom cereals ever become mainstream? While it may be possible for a small business to flourish with this business model, I wonder whether it will ever catch on enough to have a significant long-term impact on the role of cereal of in our society.

2. How will custom cereal companies distinguish themselves from each other? Probably the most amazing part of this exercise has been the realization that there is more similarity between MixMyGranola and [me]&goji then differences. Unfortunately, in the effort to copy the success of mymuesli they seem to be neglecting the opportunity to further innovation and creativity. Long-term success will depend on each of these companies finding their unique niche and capitalizing on it.

3. Is there life beyond granola and muesli? Obviously the very nature of granola and muesli make them great candidates for a breakfast cereal base. But, I would like to believe that the next stage in custom cereal will include even more cereal options for consumers.

I look forward to watching this cereal drama unfold, and will keep you posted here.

Technorati Tags: cereal, me+and+goji, MixMyGranola, breakfastbowl