MCI Student Launches Outdoor Kitchen Startup in Family Tandem

Management & Law student Lucas Sturm develops handmade Tyrolean outdoor products in father-and-son collaboration

The idea for our products originated in my childhood. We used to spend many vacations and trips camping, which shaped my passion for nature and cooking. As wonderful as these experiences were, they were often marred by a recurring problem. Wobbly gas stoves, scattered cooking utensils, and the constant search for the right equipment often made outdoor cooking inconvenient. This experience gave rise to the desire to develop a stable, well-organized, and weight-optimized solution that is also easy to transport.

In 2020, we began developing our first prototype. From the very beginning, it was clear that our products had to meet the highest standards of design, functionality, and durability. The journey from idea to market-ready product required close coordination with regional craft businesses and a willingness to solve technical challenges step by step. In 2023, we began working with SD-Technik in Terfens, Tyrol, which enabled us to optimize our developments so that series production could begin in 2024. (...)

Our current focus is on our cutlery bag, which is manufactured at the integrative workshop GW-Tirol. It is a prime example of our philosophy of combining functionality with precision craftsmanship and sustainable production. It includes knives from Stubai in the Stubai Valley, cutlery from Picard and Wielpütz in Solingen, and cooking utensils from Westmark and Gräwe. The combination of regional craftsmanship and high-quality components makes it a product that meets both practical and culinary demands.

The founding process was characterized by an open exchange between my father and me. Different ideas were discussed and implemented in an optimized form. There were obstacles, especially in the technical implementation of our product. But every task we solved was an important step forward.

Looking back, we should have invested more in brand visibility and reach during the early development phase in order to claim a larger market share right from the start. At the same time, we benefited enormously from our network, which was created in particular through close cooperation with local producers and partners.

Lucas also reports on the lessons he learned from his start-up experience as follows:

Clear learnings can be gained from our start-up experience. Innovation often begins with observing everyday problems. A strong network and resilient partnerships are crucial for long-term success. Setbacks offer opportunities to improve products and processes. Careful legal and technical preparation, especially in the area of e-commerce, is essential.

The MCI provided us with valuable inspiration through practice-oriented lectures and events, where we gained not only knowledge but also important contacts. The Austrian Chamber of Commerce supported us with targeted advice, funding opportunities, and relevant

With our products, we want to enable outdoor enthusiasts to cook and enjoy nature with the highest quality and comfort. We combine precision craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and sustainable values to create a unique overall experience that inspires and connects.

Not all of our students have the opportunity to put the theoretical aspects of starting a business into practice so directly. As the Entrepreneurial School®, we are keen to provide a platform for Mr. Sturm's start-up story, which can also serve as inspiration for other students and/or graduates. We also hope for continued success and enthusiasm for the future of “Sturm Mobile Kitchen.”“.