#174 - Buyer Spotlight: Heidi Traore and Jeanette Bloss, National Co+op Grocers

Dec 18, 2024

Heidi Traore, Supplier Relationship Development Manager at National Co+op Grocers, and Jeanette Bloss, their Category Manager, share fascinating insights into the co-op ecosystem. They discuss NCG’s role in empowering natural brands through centralized support and procurement. Topics range from the importance of data in category management to identifying trends like the growing interest in dumplings and plant-based alternatives. They also provide tips on effective brand outreach and fostering sustainable partnerships for long-term success.

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Intro

00:00 • 3min

Inside National Co+op Grocers

03:13 • 16min

Strategic Timing for Innovative Brands in Retail

19:09 • 2min

Navigating Product Distribution and Market Trends

21:34 • 20min

Navigating Product Velocity and Market Categories

41:17 • 4min

Navigating Competitive Beverage and Snack Markets

45:06 • 11min

Exciting Upcoming Events at the Fancy Food Winter Show

56:11 • 2min

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Daniel Scharff chats with Heidi Traore, Supplier Relationship Development Manager, and Jeanette Bloss, Category Manager, from NCG (National Co+op Grocers). Together, they provide an in-depth look at NCG’s role as a powerful partner for natural channel brands and co-op grocery stores.

Heidi breaks down what NCG is and how it functions as a secondary cooperative, helping hundreds of co-ops across the country thrive through centralized procurement, retail services, and retail development. Meanwhile, Jeanette offers invaluable insights into the world of category management, including how brands can position themselves for success during NCG’s formal category reviews, the importance of data, and identifying opportunities that align with emerging trends.

From navigating distributor relationships with UNFI, to understanding the power of promotions like co-op deals and coupons, to the booming interest in dumplings, mocktails, and mushroom-based products. Heidi and Jeanette also share what they look for in brands, tips on smart outreach, and how NCG fosters true partnerships to drive long-term success.

Ready to take your brand to the next level? Tune now!

Listen in as they share about:

NCG (National Co+op Grocers) Overview
Opportunities for Brands at NCG
The Process for Brands to Partner with NCG
Trends and Category Insights
What NCG Looks for in Brands

Episode Links:

Website: https://www.ncg.coop/

Jeanette’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanette-bloss-aa2814149/

Heidi’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heiditraore/

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:

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Episode music by Super Fantastics