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Clear your search and topicBrian Bethke shares his move into CPG, the search for ginseng, a supplier setback that redirected the business, and lessons from developing functional soda.
Why it’s here
The hosts walk through attending before exhibiting, choosing the right show and booth location, staffing effectively, drawing visitors, and following up after the event.
Why it’s here
James Pippin explains what to consider when hiring a broker or sales agent, the benefits and pitfalls of the relationship, and the retail sales process.
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Greg Vetter recounts Tessemae's Whole Foods start, finding suitable manufacturers, reducing retailer risk, generating demand through bloggers, gathering candid feedback, and considering funding beyond equity.
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Luke Schneider discusses choosing retail partners, managing SKUs and pricing across channels, working with brokers, and finding investors who contribute more than capital.
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Andrea Cherkerzian shares her cookie brand's origin, the importance of clear partner communication, selecting a manufacturer, launching with Hy-Vee, and using RangeMe.
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The hosts recap specialty food and beverage discovery, sampling and retailer conversations, show organization, and the SFA Maker Prep pathway for emerging brands.
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Michael Law discusses evaluating manufacturing services and certifications, understanding what a manufacturer expects from a client, and managing the relationship for a successful partnership.
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Patrick Gibbons explains logistics support, vendor-of-record numbers, launch inventory needs, partner vetting questions, and what a logistics provider expects from an emerging brand.
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Chris Stanton discusses connecting brands with retail decision-makers, trade relationships, celebrity founders, and using online sales to learn before approaching physical stores.
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Wayne Bennett joins a recap of retail and supply chain readiness, measured expansion, manufacturer selection, packaging decisions, and transparent relationships with retail teams.
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Jeff Richards describes the opportunity behind Mooala, the difficulty of finding a manufacturer, building a broker relationship, and testing marketing tactics to improve retail sales.
Why it’s here