#191 - GNC’s Next Big Thing: Plink! and Green Regimen’s Winning Formula

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff sits down with Luke Montgomery-Smith, co-founder of Plink!, and Tyshawn Bryant, founder of Green Regimen, to unpack their incredible journeys through GNC’s Next Big Thing competition. From the initial application process to standing on shelves nationwide, 

Luke and Tyshawn share what it took to win, what they learned working with a major retailer, and how they’ve continued to grow post-launch.

Hear how Plink! scaled from Vermont startup to national hydration contender, and how Green Regimen broke through with plant-based protein in GNC’s evolving wellness space. Whether it’s walking into GNC stores to personally connect with staff or mastering the retail pitch, this episode is packed with insights for any CPG founder looking to take their brand to the next level.

Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at how hustle, strategy, and timing can lead to big wins.

Thinking of applying to the next GNC Next Big Thing?

Apply to GNC x Startup CPG NEXT BIG THING, deadline of 4/30: https://bit.ly/gncnextbigthing

Listen in as they share about:

Luke Montgomery-Smith (Plink!)

• Applying to GNC's Next Big Thing
• The Expo West Connection
• Pitching at GNC HQ
• What It Takes to Win as a Startup
• From End Cap to Permanent Shelf Placement
• Building Relationships with GNC Store Staff
• The Power of Strategic Retail Partnerships
• Fundraising Momentum After the Win

Tyshawn Bryant (Green Regimen)

• Why he Almost Didn’t Apply
• Understanding the New GNC
• Creating a Standout Submission Video
• The Surprise Win for All Finalists
• How to Make the Most of a Retail Test
• In-Store Demos and Customer Education
• Adapting to Different Customer Segments

Episode Links:

Website: https://greenregimen.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greenregimen/

Website: https://drinkplink.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukejms/ 

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 (20K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com
• Episode music by Super Fantastics