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Apple PodcastsPlanning for Expo West
Setting specific objectives before attending the trade show.
Road2Retail podcast
Andy Whitman — Managing partner at Loft Growth Partners
Andy Whitman, Managing Partner at Loft Growth Partners, discusses investing in emerging brands. He covers planning for Expo West, recent acquisition activity, preparing for investor meetings, agreeing on expectations before accepting funding and organizing financial information throughout the fundraising process.
Guest
Andy WhitmanManaging PartnerLoft Growth Partners
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Watch on YouTubeAbout this episode
Andy Whitman of Loft Growth Partners joins Road2Retail to discuss emerging brands from an investor’s perspective. With Expo West approaching at the time of recording, he considers why a brand needs a specific plan and clear objectives for the show. He also reviews emerging-brand merger and acquisition activity in early 2026.
The conversation turns to what a brand needs to establish before it can secure an investor meeting. Andy discusses alignment between founders and investors before money is accepted, along with the organization needed during fundraising. That includes clear financial information about current expenses and the intended use of new investment.
Topics covered
Emerging-brand acquisitions
Andy’s review of merger and acquisition activity in early 2026.
Securing an investor meeting
What a brand needs to establish before an investment firm will consider it.
Founder and investor alignment
Agreeing on expectations before accepting investment.
Fundraising financials
Organizing current expenses and explaining how future investment would be used.
Episode sponsors
Eagle Labs
Contract manufacturing for over-the-counter and health and beauty products.
Market Performance Group
A sales agency helping brands grow.
Introductions to Industry Experts
Connect with trusted suppliers across the CPG industry.