Market Plate

In this episode of MarketPlate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Scott O'Malley from clr!ty, a THC beverage company. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the THC beverage market, including product lines, dosage, market trends, consumer education, and the impact of legislation and insurance on the industry. Scott shares insights on the evolution of the market, the importance of educating consumers, and the future of THC beverages as they expand into new states and product offerings.

Takeaways

• Scott O'Malley has diverse business experience, including in THC beverages.
• Clarity offers a range of THC-infused beverages, including seltzers and cold brews.
• The THC beverage market is rapidly evolving with increasing consumer interest.
• Education is crucial for consumers unfamiliar with THC products.
• Insurance issues pose challenges for bars and restaurants selling THC beverages.
• The market is seeing a mix of older and younger consumers.
• Scott predicts a $28 billion industry for THC beverages in the coming years.
• Legislation varies by state, impacting product availability and marketing.
• Clarity is expanding its product lines and entering new states.
• Hemp-derived THC offers legal advantages over marijuana-derived products.

In this episode of Market Plate, Michael Wangbickler speaks with Bobby Barton about the evolving landscape of the beverage industry, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for emerging brands. Bobby shares insights on building RPC Brands, the importance of consumer connection, and the need for consultative selling in a competitive market. They discuss trends in wine and spirits, including the rise of rum and the impact of health and wellness on consumer choices.

Takeaways

• RPC Brands was created to support small to mid-sized beverage brands.
• Building a sales team around a few products can be challenging.
• Consumer connection is essential for brand success.
• Consultative selling helps identify and solve customer problems.
• The wine category has seen a decline in recent years.
• Emerging brands need to focus on storytelling and engagement.
• Distribution challenges require innovative solutions.
• Secondary markets offer untapped opportunities for growth.
• Health and wellness trends are influencing consumer choices.
• Rum is poised for a renaissance in the spirits market.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Anne Djerai, CEO of Metropolis Coffee, about the evolving landscape of the coffee industry. They discuss the company's culture, innovations, and the impact of consumer preferences on coffee consumption. Anne shares insights on sourcing challenges, pricing fluctuations, and the influence of major brands like Starbucks on coffee culture. The conversation highlights the importance of ethical sourcing and the growing trend of convenience in coffee consumption, especially in the wake of COVID-19.

Takeaways

• Metropolis Coffee has a personal and approachable culture.
• Innovation is key in the coffee industry.
• Cold brew coffee is becoming a year-round trend.
• Consumers are focusing more on the coffee experience.
• Extract and concentrate products are gaining popularity.
• Ethical sourcing and transparency are increasingly important.
• Price fluctuations in coffee sourcing are challenging for businesses.
• Drive-through coffee shops are on the rise post-COVID.
• The coffee industry is seeing a surge in ready-to-drink options.
• Starbucks continues to influence coffee trends significantly.

In this episode, Michael Wangbickler interviews Chad Copher, the general manager of Heringer Estates, a family-run winery in Clarksburg, California. They discuss Chad's journey into the wine industry, the history and operations of Heringer Estates, and the challenges the wine market is currently facing. The conversation also explores strategies for attracting younger generations of wine drinkers, the importance of creating memorable experiences, and innovative event strategies to drive growth. Chad shares insights on current trends in wine consumption and production, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and authenticity in the industry.

Takeaways

• Chad Copher transitioned from retail to the wine industry.
• Heringer Estates has a rich history dating back to 1868.
• The winery produces a variety of wines and also sells grapes to other wineries.
• Building long-term relationships is crucial in the wine business.
• The wine industry is currently facing challenges in grape sales and market demand.
• Attracting younger generations requires a shift in marketing and experience.
• The experience economy is becoming more important in the wine industry.
• Innovative events can help wineries engage with customers and drive sales.
• Sweet wines and approachable varieties are gaining popularity among new wine drinkers.
• Sustainability and authenticity are key values for attracting the next generation.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Alex Sarnow from Spruce Confections about the challenges and opportunities in the baked goods industry. They discuss the company's growth plans, market trends, specialty baked goods, and the challenges faced by the industry, including staffing and pricing. Alex shares insights on building relationships in the wholesale market and the importance of marketing strategies. The conversation concludes with Alex's favorite product and thoughts on the future of Spruce Confections.

Takeaways

• Spruce Confections has been around since 1992, starting from a home kitchen.
• The company has four retail locations and two commercial bakeries.
• Growth plans for 2025 focus on expanding wholesale and local business.
• There is a demand for specialty baked goods like gluten-free and vegan options.
• Pricing of ingredients like butter and eggs has significantly increased.
• Consumers are willing to spend more for quality baked goods.
• Building relationships with coffee shops is crucial for success.
• Staffing challenges are a common issue in the baking industry.
• Marketing strategies are evolving as the company grows.
• Alex's favorite product is a gluten-free breakfast bun that tastes like an English muffin.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Pete Ferrari, the founder of Healthy for Life Foods, about his entrepreneurial journey and the introduction of Jaka sugar, a healthier alternative to traditional sugar. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the food industry, the importance of consumer education, and the company's commitment to social responsibility through initiatives aimed at combating nutritional inequality. Ferrari shares insights on market trends, consumer behavior, and the need for transparency and trust in the food industry.

Takeaways

• Pete Ferrari has built five companies across different industries over 35 years.
• Jaka sugar offers metabolic benefits and tastes like traditional sugar.
• The food industry is seeing a shift towards healthier alternatives.
• Consumer awareness and education are crucial for market success.
• 75% of Americans are trying to reduce sugar intake but still prefer its taste.
• The internet has changed how consumers research and purchase food products.
• Trust in big corporations is declining among consumers.
• Healthy for Life Foods aims to combat nutritional inequality.
• The company is a certified pending B corporation, emphasizing ethics and purpose.
• Future goals include expanding product offerings and health initiatives.

In this conversation, Alanna Ti'a shares her journey as a solopreneur in the baking industry, discussing the challenges and opportunities she faced while establishing her home bakery. She emphasizes the importance of adapting to market trends, understanding cottage food laws, and leveraging SEO for business growth. Alanna also addresses supply chain issues, pricing strategies, and offers valuable advice for aspiring bakers.

Takeaways

• Alanna Ti'a pivoted from calligraphy to baking due to market demand.
• She operates a home bakery and has streamlined her processes for efficiency.
• Google SEO and automated customer feedback have been crucial for her success.
• Understanding local cottage food laws allowed her to expand her business.
• Staying updated with baking trends is essential for customer satisfaction.
• Supply chain issues, especially with eggs and chocolate, have impacted pricing.
• Alanna encourages giving free samples as a marketing strategy.
• She emphasizes the importance of customer feedback in shaping her offerings.
• Future trends include dessert tables and unique flavor combinations.
• Alanna advises aspiring bakers to prepare thoroughly before launching their business.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Josh Rothstein from Redstone Foods about the current challenges in the candy industry. They discuss market trends, consumer behavior, the impact of tariffs, and the shift towards online business models. Rothstein shares insights on regional preferences for snack products, emerging flavor trends, and the importance of building long-term relationships in business. The conversation highlights the need for adaptability and innovation in a rapidly changing market.

Takeaways

• Consumers are trading down in size or price due to economic concerns.
• Online business models are becoming increasingly important for retailers.
• Regional preferences influence snack product sales significantly.
• Tariffs are causing uncertainty in manufacturing and product innovation.
• Pistachio is emerging as a popular flavor trend in the candy market.
• Building long-term relationships is crucial in the candy business.
• Fun and novelty are key elements in attracting customers to candy products.
• The blog and online presence of Redstone Foods is a significant marketing tool.
• Pickle flavored products are gaining popularity among consumers.
• Investing in warehouse space is essential for meeting growing demand.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Mike speaks with Vincent Beretta of Tres Lecheria about the challenges and opportunities in the food and beverage industry, particularly in the dessert sector. They discuss the journey of Cubes Baking Company, the impact of the pandemic, market trends towards clean label products, and the importance of efficiency and sustainability in production. Vincent shares insights on navigating current headwinds, capacity constraints, and effective marketing strategies, as well as valuable advice for new entrepreneurs in the industry.

Takeaways

• Vincent Beretta has extensive experience in the food and beverage industry.
• Cubes Baking Company was founded with a focus on high-quality, scratch-made desserts.
• The pandemic forced a pivot to wholesale distribution, which became successful.
• Market trends show a growing demand for clean label and organic products.
• Sustainability practices are becoming increasingly important in the industry.
• Rising egg prices are a significant challenge for dessert producers.
• Capacity constraints are limiting growth opportunities for Tres Lecheria.
• Efficiency in production is crucial for maintaining profitability in wholesale.
• Trade shows are essential for networking and marketing in the food industry.
• New entrepreneurs should focus on keeping costs low and learning from mistakes.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Justin Honeysuckle, co-founder of Tended Bar, an innovative automated cocktail dispensing system. They discuss the evolution of Tended Bar, its unique features, and the challenges faced in the hospitality industry, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Justin shares insights on market positioning, operational challenges, and the importance of customer experience. He emphasizes the need for passion in entrepreneurship and the adaptability required to thrive in a changing market.

Takeaways

• Tended Bar started as a college project and evolved into a business.
• The system allows for self-service cocktails, enhancing customer experience.
• Facial recognition technology replaced RFID wristbands during COVID-19.
• Operational challenges include reliance on external teams and systems.
• Creating a unique customer experience is crucial for success.
• The market for automated bars is expanding beyond traditional venues.
• Passion for the business translates into better sales and partnerships.
• Adapting to market needs is essential for growth.
• Tended Bar can serve both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Understanding customer preferences can drive product development.