Folkert Bowler: Rising Entrepreneur and Digital Marketing Visionary
In the modern digital age, very few young entrepreneurs manage to stand out in multiple fields at once. One such figure is Folkert Bowler, a British-born innovator, marketer, and content creator who is steadily making his mark in the world of confectionery and social media. Known for co-founding Pick’Em, a flavoured toothpick brand that is shaking up the traditional snacking industry, Bowler has combined his creative flair, entrepreneurial drive, and passion for online influence to carve a unique career path.
This article provides a detailed overview of Folkert Bowler’s life, career, education, entrepreneurial journey, and the impact he continues to create both in business and in the online world.
Early Life and Origin
Folkert Bowler was born on 22 January 2003 in England. Growing up in the United Kingdom, he showed early signs of creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. His background and upbringing instilled in him both discipline and ambition, qualities that would later fuel his ventures.
Although little is publicly documented about his childhood, it is known that his parents, Annet Bowler and Simon Bowler, played a supportive role in his growth. As a British citizen, he has remained proud of his roots while also expanding his vision beyond borders, especially through his educational and professional pursuits in Germany.
Academic Journey
Studying at CODE University of Applied Sciences
Bowler pursued his higher education at CODE University of Applied Sciences in Berlin, Germany. This institution is renowned for its highly competitive admission process, with only 7–8% of applicants securing a place. CODE focuses on innovative and practical learning, equipping students with modern skills in management, design, and technology.
At CODE, Bowler enrolled in a Bachelor of Product Management programme, which he is set to complete between 2022 and 2025. His academic journey has been as dynamic as his professional one, blending marketing expertise with hands-on entrepreneurial projects.
Entrepreneurial Path
Founding Pick’Em
In April 2023, Folkert Bowler co-founded Pick’Em, where he serves as the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). Pick’Em is not just another confectionery brand—it is a direct-to-consumer (D2C) business redefining how people view chewing substitutes. Instead of conventional chewing gum, the brand offers flavoured toothpicks, creating a niche in the market.
Pick’Em has quickly become one of the fastest-growing confectionery startups in the UK, measured by online reach. With over 250 million views on social media and a following of 600,000+ people, the company has successfully leveraged digital platforms to build brand awareness and consumer loyalty.
Mission and Environmental Impact
The mission of Pick’Em is both creative and eco-conscious. By promoting flavoured toothpicks as a trendy alternative to chewing gum, the brand has highlighted its potential environmental benefits. Traditional chewing gum contributes to more than 250,000 tonnes of plastic waste annually, while toothpicks provide a more sustainable solution. Bowler and his team are not only marketing a product but also aligning their vision with global environmental concerns.
Sales Growth
From its inception, Pick’Em has seen remarkable growth. The company has sold over 35 million toothpicks, reaching audiences worldwide. What started as a university side hustle has transformed into a rapidly scaling business with global ambitions.
Expertise in Digital Marketing
TikTok Success
Before founding Pick’Em, Bowler had already demonstrated a sharp instinct for digital marketing. He specialised in TikTok growth strategies, successfully expanding his own platforms and others in record time.
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He grew Pick’Em’s TikTok from 0 to 300,000 followers in less than 10 weeks.
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He managed to grow CODE University’s TikTok account from 0 to 100,000 followers in just four months, with viral posts driving thousands of new website accounts and applicants.
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Collectively, Bowler has contributed to more than 250 million social media impressions, solidifying his reputation as a marketing strategist.
Personal Brand Building
Alongside his work for Pick’Em and CODE University, Folkert Bowler has maintained a personal presence on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, with a combined following of over 30,000 fans. His content focuses on self-development, lifestyle insights, and university life, blending authenticity with inspiration.
Career Highlights
Roles and Achievements
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Co-Founder & CMO of Pick’Em
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Established one of the fastest-growing confectionery startups.
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Sold tens of millions of flavoured toothpicks.
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Reached 600K+ social media followers and 250M+ impressions.
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Pioneered a sustainable chewing alternative with significant environmental benefits.
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TikTok Marketing Specialist at CODE University of Applied Sciences
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Grew the institution’s TikTok platform to 100K followers in just four months.
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Produced viral campaigns resulting in 1,500+ new university website accounts.
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Demonstrated how short-form content can drive tangible organisational outcomes.
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Personal Life
Family
As mentioned, Folkert Bowler’s parents are Annet and Simon Bowler, who continue to be part of his close circle of support.
Marital Status
As of now, there is no verified public information to suggest that Bowler is married or has a wife. Given his age—currently in his early twenties—he appears focused primarily on his entrepreneurial journey, education, and online influence.
Personality and Interests
Bowler describes himself as passionate about self-development and creating a positive influence online. His personal content often reflects these values, showcasing a balance between hard work, lifestyle, and a growth-oriented mindset.
Recognition and Influence
Public Image
Folkert Bowler has been described as one of the promising young entrepreneurs in the UK startup scene. His mix of business sense, creativity, and marketing ability has made him a role model for aspiring founders and digital creators.
Growing Influence
With every milestone achieved, Bowler’s influence continues to expand. Whether it is through the success of Pick’Em, his expertise in social media marketing, or his presence as a content creator, his brand is one of innovation, persistence, and ambition.
Future Outlook
Given his current trajectory, Bowler is expected to achieve even greater success in the years ahead. With Pick’Em scaling across new markets and growing consumer awareness, the potential for global recognition is immense. His proven digital marketing strategies ensure that any venture he touches will benefit from rapid online exposure and customer engagement.
Beyond business, his role as a young creator passionate about positive impact suggests that his influence will extend into areas such as mentorship, environmental advocacy, and youth entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
Folkert Bowler is a name to watch in the spheres of business, digital marketing, and online content creation. From growing a side hustle into a rapidly scaling confectionery brand to building TikTok accounts into viral successes, his journey is one of determination, creativity, and vision.
At only 22 years old, Bowler has already achieved what many entrepreneurs spend decades striving for. His story serves as inspiration for young innovators worldwide, proving that with the right mindset, digital savvy, and persistence, it is possible to reshape industries and influence culture.
