top of page
Bad Ideas LLC About Us

Get To know 
bad ideas

We offer end-to-end beverage development services for diverse markets, specializing in rapid ideation-to-distribution solutions.

OUR core values.

At Bad Ideas, LLC, we prioritize family values above all else. When you work with us, you become part of our extended family. We are dedicated to ensuring the safety of both you and your products, providing a trustworthy partnership with ruthless execution you can rely on.

Family-Focused

Award-Winning Quality

Pace & Rigor

Our History.

Brian Makela started Formulated Ethanol Solutions LLC in 2019 after a storied career working for Campbell’s Soup Company, Nestle, Diageo (15 years), and Flavors of North America (now McCormick).  After 20 years in corporate America, he created FES LLC to deliver exceptional product development and commercialization, delivering breakthrough innovation in the beverage RTD / RTS space:


In 2022, Brian had the vision and hustle to scale FES LLC into a fully turn-key beverage innovation company Bad Ideas.

The Bad Ideas team takes an idea and turns it into reality faster than any other company in the beverage Industry.

Meet Brian.

I'm deeply passionate about my work in the beverage industry, particularly in developing innovative non-alcoholic and alcohol products. After working for Campbell’s Soup Company, Nestle Confections & Snacks, and Diageo in various technical leadership roles and several innovation patents. My lifelong passion for beverages started at a young age which has translated into a successful career launching some of the most well-known brands in the world. A multi-degreed food scientist, I have a curiosity and hunger for bringing, safe, high-quality, bleeding-edge innovative products to market using a “virtual company” model.

 

My focus on using real ingredients and creating products with compelling stories for consumers resonates with my commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle, given my background as an athlete. I strive for excellence, evidenced by the high-quality products my clients produce and the awards they receive.

Ultimately, my drive stems from a desire to make a positive impact on people's lives through superior products, while also achieving personal and professional success. This dual motivation—to help others and to excel in my field—is a powerful combination that fuels my dedication to creating the best possible beverages.

Bad Ideas LLC Brian Makela

Brian Makela

Founder, CEO

bottom of page