Join Daniel Scharff in this episode of the Startup CPG podcast as he delves into the intricacies of exhibiting at distributor shows within the food and beverage industry with Samuel Jacobson, Senior Director of Key Accounts and Alternate Channels at HOP WTR. They explore the distinct dynamics of UNFI and KeHE shows, contrasting them with larger shows like Expo West.

From buyer prep and negotiation tactics to booth management and cost-saving strategies, Daniel and Samuel offer valuable insights for optimizing trade show participation. Whether you're a vendor seeking to drive business growth or a buyer looking for new products, this episode provides essential tips.

Tune in now!

Listen in to hear about:

• Purpose of Distributor Shows
• Strategies for Success at Distributor Shows
• Cost-Saving Tips
• Buyer Behavior
• Booth Management and Presentation
• Interactions at Trade Shows
• Understanding Buyer Dynamics
• Trade Spend Guidelines
• Deal Negotiation and Logistics  During Trade Shows
• Preparation and Booth Setup
• Networking and Opportunities
• Deal Structures and Show Strategies
• Marketing Option and Negotiation Tactics
• Follow-up and Inventory Planning

Episode Links:

HOP WTR’s Website

HOP WTR’s  Instagram

Samuel Jacobson’s LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)

• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

Join Grace Kennedy in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast as she speaks with Jia Liao, the founder of Hotpot Queen, to explore her remarkable journey in the CPG industry. Discover how Jia’s brand brings the authentic, bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine to life with high-quality ingredients like wild mushrooms and fermented sauces. Hot Pot Queen’s products are not only bursting with the distinctive taste of málà but are also gluten-free, vegan, and MSG-free, making them a hit among spicy food enthusiasts.

Learn about the legacy behind the brand name, inspired by Jia’s family’s rich history in Chinese hot pot restaurants, and how her mother’s innovative spirit has influenced her mission to popularize her regional cuisine worldwide. Jia shares her experiences overcoming challenges in product packaging and manufacturing, emphasizing the crucial role of community support and strategic focus on specific sales channels for success.

Ready to spice up your culinary experience? Tune in now!

Listen in as they share about:

• Origin of the Name "Hotpot Queen"
• Launch at Expo West
• Retail Strategy and Growth
• Challenges and Resilience
• Product Differentiation
• Marketing and Growth Strategies
• Funding and Business Structure
• Future Plans and Challenges
• Advice for Aspiring Founders

Episode Links:

Hotpot Queen’s Website

Jia Liao’s LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)

• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

In this episode of Startup CPG Podcast, join Daniel Scharff and Kenny Hausmann, an 18-year veteran of the grocery industry, to discuss the accessibility of natural foods and the commitment to health and innovation. Kenny shares his career journey, from his early days in stores to becoming a category manager, highlighting his passion for health and alignment with Fresh Thyme's values.

They explore recent industry events like Expo West and the first large-scale CPG Shabbat, discussing the importance of human connections amidst industry buzz. Kenny also draws on his diverse experience, including managing Natural/Organic/Specialty Foods at Foodland Hawaii, and provides insights into managing categories like bulk foods and addressing supply chain logistics challenges.

Learn about brand partnerships at Fresh Thyme, including innovative marketing campaigns integrated with social media influence and initiatives supporting regenerative agriculture.

Tune in now!

Listen in as Kenny shares about:

• Focus on Natural and Organic Foods
• Transition to Fresh Thyme Market
• Working at Foodland in Hawaii
• Advice for Suppliers
• Personal Experiences
• Product Categories and Selection Process
• Trends in Natural Living
• Brand Partnerships and Marketing
• Opportunities for Brands to partner with Fresh Thyme
• Category Reviews and Reset Timelines

Episode Links:

Fresh Thyme Website
Kenny’s LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• 
  Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

Join Grace Kennedy in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast as she interviews JoLynn Henke and Peter Clarkson, the co-founders of Protéger. From personal experiences to a commitment to full-body skin health, discover how JoLynn's mother's ALS diagnosis fueled their passion for safeguarding the skin and loved ones.

Explore Protéger's innovative dermal serum, a full-body product that caters to a wide variety of needs from hydrating pregnant bellies to preserving tattoos. Learn how they challenge traditional beauty norms by promoting inclusivity and authenticity in marketing, emphasizing the unisex nature of their products and clean ingredients without added fragrances.

Protéger's journey has not been without challenges. Hear how Protéger tackled damaged inventory issues with "rescue bottles," sold at a discount for charity, showcasing their resilience and creativity in problem-solving while benefiting animal rescue organizations.

Discover how Protéger's emphasis on personal connections with retailers facilitated their expansion into retail locations such as Figgy Co. Through storytelling and community engagement, they strive to redefine beauty standards, prioritizing skin health over traditional gender-specific norms.

Ready to redefine your skincare routine? Tune in now!

Listen in as they share about:

• Origin Story of Protéger
• Product Concept and Versatility
• Marketing Strategies
• Diverse Distribution Channels
• Customer Feedback
• Unisex Nature of Products
• Approach to Retail Partnerships
• Challenges with Damaged Inventory
• Advice for Founders
• Where to Find Protéger Daily

Episode Links:

Protéger Website

JoLynn Henke’s LinkedIn

Peter Clarkson’s LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)

• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to hummingbirds.com/startupCPG
This episode was sponsored by Cin7. Go to cin7.com/startupcpg
This episode was sponsored by Grassroots Marketing. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call)

Join Daniel Scharff in this episode of Startup CPG Podcast as he delves into the intricacies of consumer research methodologies with Sara Schor, principal of Schor Insights & Strategy, a specialized boutique agency focused on consumer insights and brand strategy. From qualitative to quantitative approaches, they explore the art of crafting effective discussion guides and surveys to extract actionable insights. Sara shares riveting anecdotes, showcasing the profound impact of small yet powerful insights.

Discover how understanding consumer behavior drives strategic brand development. Learn from Sara’s flexible collaboration approach, tailored to diverse budget constraints, and her unwavering focus on meaningful outcomes over rigid structures.

Don’t miss this invaluable tips on leveraging qualitative research techniques to reshape brand identities and unlock growth opportunities.

Tune in now!

Listen in as Sara shares about:

• Qualitative Research vs Quantitative Research
• Choosing the Right Methodology
• Sample Size and Statistical Significance
• Qualitative Research Design and Objective Setting
• Different Qualitative Methodologies
• Challenges of Focus Groups
• Cost-effective Recruitment
• Aided vs. Unaided Questions
• Consumer Insights and Brand Strategy
• Cost and Collaboration

Episode Links:

Schor Insights & Strategy’s Website

Sara’s LinkedIn
Sara’s Email: [email protected]

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)

• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

Cin7 Links:

• Get a free month trial and then 50% off your first 3 months. Check out cin7.com/startupcpg

Hummingbirds Links:

• Find case studies, content + an exclusive chance to win a FREE custom managed campaign. Visit Hummingbirds.com/startupCPG

Grassroots Links: 

• Special Startup CPG community pricing and no minimum # of demos with Grassroots Marketing, our official in-store demo partner. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to hummingbirds.com/startupCPG
This episode was sponsored by Cin7. Go to cin7.com/startupcpg
This episode was sponsored by Grassroots Marketing. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call)

Join Grace Kennedy in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast as she delves into the flavorful world of House of Kajaana, a pioneering plant-based Indian food brand owned by Sabah Ashraf. Sabah unravels the remarkable transition from investment banking to culinary entrepreneurship, and discover how House of Kajana is redefining frozen meals, prioritizing taste and inclusivity by crafting gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and nut-free dishes like roasted cauliflower tikka masala and coconut Malabar curry.

Explore their strategic approach to product selection, rooted in building strong consumer connections through familiar flavor profiles. Delve into their expansion strategies, including partnerships with renowned retailers like Fresh Direct and an upcoming launch in Whole Foods stores nationwide.

Gain insights into House of Kajana's commitment to engaging consumers through in-store demos and digital platforms like Instagram and Aisle. Learn about their vision for the future, centered on providing convenient access to healthier meal options across the country.

Tune in to this mouthwatering conversation and join the plant-based revolution with House of Kajana!

Listen in as Sabah shares about:

• House of Kajaana Mission and Identity
• Early Influences and Love for Indian Food
• Product Development
• Launch Strategy and Retail Expansion
• Preparation for Nationwide Presence
• Navigating Distribution and Finding Great Partners
• Challenges of Being a Founder
• Advice for Other Founders
• Future Plans for the House of Kajaana

Episode Links:

House of Kajaana’s Website

Saba’s LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics

Cin7 Links:

• Get a free month trial and then 50% off your first 3 months. Check out cin7.com/startupcpg

Hummingbirds Links:

• Find case studies, content + an exclusive chance to win a FREE custom managed campaign. Visit Hummingbirds.com/startupCPG

Grassroots Links: 

• Special Startup CPG community pricing and no minimum # of demos with Grassroots Marketing, our official in-store demo partner. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to hummingbirds.com/startupCPG
This episode was sponsored by Cin7. Go to cin7.com/startupcpg
This episode was sponsored by Grassroots Marketing. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call)

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Christine McNerney, Vice President of Merchandising Ops for Health, Beauty, and Home Categories at Thrive Market, and Jason Bidart VP of Food Merchandising at Thrive Market. They explore Thrive Market's commitment to offering wholesome products and maintaining strict ingredient standards.

From Christine's journey in fashion e-commerce to Jason's extensive grocery retail experience, discover how their expertise shapes Thrive Market's offerings.

Hear about how they work with brands, and top-selling products like electrolyte powders and wellness items. Dive into product highlights and marketing programs that drive Thrive Market's success, and gain insights into their collaborative approach with merchandising teams.

Tune in now to discover a healthier way of living with Thrive Market!

Listen in as Christine and Jason share about:

• Thrive Market's Elevated Standards
• Affordability and Accessibility
• Product Standards and Sourcing
• Consumer Trends and Preferences
• Acquisition Strategy and Distribution Options
• Brand Discovery
• Favorite Products
• Marketing and Promotions

Episode Links:

Thrive Market’s Website

Christine LinkedIn

Jason LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)

• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

Cin7 Links:

• Get a free month trial and then 50% off your first 3 months. Check out cin7.com/startupcpg

Hummingbirds Links:

• Find case studies, content + an exclusive chance to win a FREE custom managed campaign. Visit Hummingbirds.com/startupCPG

Grassroots Links: 

• Special Startup CPG community pricing and no minimum # of demos with Grassroots Marketing, our official in-store demo partner. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to hummingbirds.com/startupCPG
This episode was sponsored by Cin7. Go to cin7.com/startupcpg
This episode was sponsored by Grassroots Marketing. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call)

Join Grace Kennedy in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast as she is joined by Jake Deleon, the founder and CEO of Fila Manila and Alex Sorenson, the Founder and CEO of Blank Slate Kitchen to delve into the complexities of UPC (Universal Product Code) code management. Discover the pivotal decisions behind altering UPC codes, influenced by factors such as pricing strategy, market competitiveness, and cost efficiency. 

Hear firsthand accounts of how Jake and Alex approached UPC modifications to meet distribution demands and navigate retailer approvals. From adjusting net weight to strategic inventory planning, learn the intricacies of UPC management and the importance of sales forecasting in ensuring smooth transitions. Gain invaluable advice from founders on starting small to gather consumer feedback, assessing velocity metrics for store performance, and engaging effectively with distributors and retailers.

Plus, explore how adapting product sizes can positively impact buyer behavior and discover proactive measures like promotions and discounts to manage UPC changes effectively. 

Don't miss out on the latest strategies for success in the CPG industry - Tune in now!

Listen in as Jake and Alex share about:

• Cost Consideration of Changing UPC Codes
• Challenges of Not Changing UPC Codes
• Amazon Complications
• Updating Product Records and GS1 Data Hub
• Managing Changeovers and Mitigating Risks
• Refills and Negotiations with Retailers
• Advice for Founders
• Product Promotion and Sales
• Brand Promotion

Episode Links:

Blank Slate Kitchen Website

Alex Sorenson’s LinkedIn

Fila Manila Website

Jake Deleon LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics

Cin7 Links:

• Get a free month trial and then 50% off your first 3 months. Check out cin7.com/startupcpg

Hummingbirds Links:

• Find case studies, content + an exclusive chance to win a FREE custom managed campaign. Visit Hummingbirds.com/startupCPG

Grassroots Links: 

• Special Startup CPG community pricing and no minimum # of demos with Grassroots Marketing, our official in-store demo partner. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to hummingbirds.com/startupCPG
This episode was sponsored by Cin7. Go to cin7.com/startupcpg
This episode was sponsored by Grassroots Marketing. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call)

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Mott Smith, co-founder of Amped Kitchens and a Startup CPG partner. Together, they delve into the benefits of utilizing commercial kitchens for small food businesses, emphasizing regulatory compliance, control, and flexibility in manufacturing.

From product development challenges to staffing solutions, they explore various aspects of operating in a commercial kitchen, illuminating seamless transitions between spaces and the importance of community interactions.

Drawing parallels between music production and food formulation, they discuss the significance of clear communication, feedback, and decision-making in the development process, while also addressing challenges like perfectionism. They also discussed the industry trends, touching on the potential decline of ghost kitchens and the rise of delivery-optimized food halls.

Ready to take your food business to the next level? Tune in now!

Listen in as Mott shares about:

• The Need and Ideal Customer for Commercial Kitchens
• Benefits of Commercial Kitchens vs. Comans
• Examples and Case Studies
• Facilities and Offerings of Commercial Kitchens
• Equipment Needs for Different Types of Food Products
• Consultation, Expertise, and Cost Considerations
• Community and Networking
• Certifications and Licensing
• In-Person vs. Online Interaction
• Services Provided by Amped Kitchens
• Relationship Between Food and Music
• Future Plans and Expansion of Amped Kitchen
• Ghost Kitchens and Food Halls

Episode Links:

Amped Kitchens Website

Mott Smith’s LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics

Cin7 Links:

• Get a free month trial and then 50% off your first 3 months. Check out cin7.com/startupcpg

Hummingbirds Links:

• Find case studies, content + an exclusive chance to win a FREE custom managed campaign. Visit Hummingbirds.com/startupCPG

Grassroots Links: 

• Special Startup CPG community pricing and no minimum # of demos with Grassroots Marketing, our official in-store demo partner. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call

Join Grace Kennedy as she delves into the world of healthy vegetarian delights with Aman Blana, the founder of Growee Foods, in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast. Aman shares the journey behind Growee Foods, inspired by his Indian heritage and a quest for fresh, plant-based options in the US. From battling the challenges of working with co-packers to navigating distribution channels, Aman reveals how mentor communities like Startup CPG have been pivotal in guiding his path.

Discover Aman's innovative marketing strategies, including engaging farmers market demos and strategic brand collaborations. Learn how Growee Foods leverages email marketing and region-focused ads to drive sales growth on a bootstrap budget, all while prioritizing quality and taste above everything else.

What’s more, get a sneak peek into upcoming spicy flavors and product lines that will leave you salivating.

Tune in now and embark on a flavorful adventure with Growee Foods!

Listen in as Aman shares about:

• Founder Story
• Challenges in Starting Up
• Marketing Strategies Employed by Growee Foods
• Distribution and Growth Strategy
• Challenges as a Founder
• Post-Expo West Follow-Up
• Growee Foods Product Development
• Motivation and Community Support
• Advice for New Entrepreneurs
• Growee Foods Availability

Episode Links:

Growee Foods Website

Aman Blana’s LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics