MFD Pod

Join Mike, the community manager at MFD, as he hosts the third edition of their discussion series. MFD, an inventory success platform, aids brands in reducing costs and navigating retail logistics. In this episode, Mike introduces PNE, the CEO, and Hamad, the Head of Global Supply at MFD, to delve into the impact of tariffs on various industries. The team discusses the implications of the removal of Section 321 exemptions, the Trump administration's tariff strategies, and potential shifts in global trade dynamics. They also cover industry-specific impacts and strategies for businesses considering relocating manufacturing from China to other countries. This video is a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the complexities of tariffs and their effects on global supply chains.00:00 Introduction to MFD and Hosts01:45 Overview of Tariff Impacts02:16 Section 321 Exemption Discussion03:52 Implications for US and Chinese Businesses05:01 Future of Section 321 and Tariffs14:12 Retaliatory Tariffs and Global Impact23:36 Impact on Specific Industries24:46 Impact of Tariffs on Furniture Margins25:28 Considering Moving Factories from China26:21 Analyzing Tariff Expansion to Other Countries27:07 Vietnam and Cambodia's Role in Tariff Circumvention30:53 US Strategy with EU and Tech Companies33:20 Retaliatory Tariffs and Their Implications35:00 Canadian Tariffs on Aluminum36:30 Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Impact on US Industries39:59 Future of US Manufacturing45:14 Conclusion and Contact Information

MFD is an inventory success platform that helps small and medium businesses in multiple categories whether it’s construction, CPG, soft goods, hard goods, electronics with sourcing, manufacturing, and financing their inventory.This is an update from our previous webinar two weeks ago...and already quite a bit has changed. We discuss• How These Tariffs Will Impact Supply Chain: What situations will their be increased costs?• Will Companies Change Their Sourcing Strategies?• Financial and Pricing Adjustments for SMBs: What Does it Mean For ConsumersFor more information check out manufactured.com

In this episode, Mike interviews Amy Zitelman, CEO and co-founder of Soom Foods, a leading premium tahini brand. Amy shares the journey of discovering the market gap in the U.S. for high-quality tahini, the steps taken to establish a reliable supply chain, and the strategies employed to penetrate various sales channels. The conversation delves into the dynamics of food service vs. retail, the importance of chef influence, and the nuances of working capital management in the CPG space. Tune in to learn about building brand credibility, leveraging chef endorsements, and balancing cash flow to ensure business sustainability.00:00 Introduction00:23 Meet Amy Zitelman of Soom Foods01:20 The Birth of a Tahini Business02:27 Understanding the Market and Supply Chain04:24 Challenges and Early Learnings08:16 Entering the Food Service Industry10:31 Building Brand Awareness15:47 Navigating Sales Channels26:02 Impact of COVID-1932:00 Future Plans and Final Thoughts38:05 Conclusion

MFD is an inventory success platform that helps small and medium businesses in multiple categories whether it’s construction, CPG, soft goods, hard goods, electronics with sourcing, manufacturing, and financing their inventory.In this webinar we will explore:• The New Tariff Landscape: What’s Changing?• How These Tariffs Will Impact Your Supply Chain: increased costs for raw materials, components, logistics• Sourcing Strategies: Alternative countries and domestic manufacturing• Financial and Pricing Adjustments for SMBs: Should you absorb costs or pass them on to customers?For more information check out manufactured.com

In this episode of the re:COGS podcast we dive deep into the journey of Jimmy Feeman, co-founder of NoBaked Cookie Dough. Jimmy shares the origins of their innovative product and their turbulent journey from opening retail stores to pivoting towards a direct-to-consumer (DTC) model and finally to wholesale distribution. Key highlights include challenges faced in maintaining good margins, the highs and lows of working with co-manufacturers, and the strategic pivots made during the pandemic. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned operator, this episode is packed with invaluable insights on scaling a CPG brand, managing operational hurdles, and the intricacies of supply chain management. Watch now for a masterclass in inventory success and business strategy!

While working in the restaurant business, Buddy started experimenting with vodka infusions using chili peppers and other ingredients, leading to a spicy take on the classic cocktail. This creation quickly became the restaurant’s best-seller, inspiring Buddy to dream beyond the confines of the establishment.

00:00 Introduction to re:COGS

00:38 Meet the Founders of Bloody Buddy

02:46 The Origin Story of Bloody Buddy

03:46 Developing the Perfect Bloody Mary

09:22 Market Validation and Early Success

15:02 Building the Business and Vertical Integration

18:31 Distribution Strategies and Expansion

21:23 Reflecting on the Saints Deal

21:59 Expanding Beyond Bars and Restaurants

22:40 Introducing the Chili Pepper Infused Vodka

23:18 Crafting the Perfect Mexican Chocolate Espresso Martini

24:36 Managing Different Product Lines

27:22 Challenges of Rapid Expansion

29:32 Lessons Learned and Future Plans

32:21 Evaluating New Distribution Opportunities

39:16 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode Mike Gelb speaks with Martin Forde, early employee of Dr. Squatch and current retail advisor at Omnichannel Ventures. They discuss Martin's recruitment and contributions to Dr. Squatch's retail strategy, detailing the steps taken to ensure Dr. Squatch's successful expansion into big box retailers like Walmart. The conversation covers Martin's approach to retail testing, supply chain readiness, demand generation, in-store execution, and navigating price points for premium products. Martin shares insights on the critical factors for emerging brands to stand out and thrive in a competitive retail landscape.

Kathrin Henon, the visionary founder and CEO of Planet Bake, joins us to share her inspiring journey of crafting the perfect sugar-free, vegan, and gluten-free donut. Catherine's story is one of innovation and determination, sparked by an "aha" moment during the pandemic when she spotted a gap in the market for healthier dessert options. Listen to her recount the meticulous nine-month process of developing her unique product, experimenting with ingredients like flax meal and psyllium husk to create a donut that is both scalable and delicious. Her German-American heritage played a pivotal role in choosing donuts as the product to launch, adding a personal touch to her brand's origin story.

Struggling with dehydration during her runs, our guest discovered an unexpected solution in her kitchen: homemade electrolyte popsicles. Inspired by her mom's passion for healthy eating, she crafted popsicles free from artificial additives and high sodium content, quickly gaining traction at local farmers markets. This journey from a personal endeavor to a thriving business unfolded during her MBA studies, where the focus was on creating a product that stood apart from competitors by avoiding the unpleasant effects of artificial sweeteners.

Discover the entrepreneurial spirit of Troy Bonde, CEO and co-founder of the innovative pasta sauce company SAUZ, as he takes us on a flavorful journey from college dreams to grocery aisle success. Troy, alongside his co-founder Winston, navigated unexpected career twists, pivoting from a hand sanitizer venture to a booming pasta sauce business during the COVID-19 pandemic.