The Startup CPG Podcast

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace sits down with Alison Cayne, the founder of Haven's Kitchen, to discuss the transformation of her business from a cooking school to a thriving CPG brand. Alison shares the challenges and lessons learned during this journey, touching on topics like sustainable packaging, navigating new food industry categories, and the strategic launch of a line of aiolis. She offers valuable insights into effective, cost-efficient marketing strategies and the importance of staying flexible in a rapidly changing market. They also cover the impact of the pandemic on fresh food products, consumer behavior, and the mental challenges of being a founder.Tune in to learn from Alison's experience and gain practical tips for growing a successful CPG brand. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed the episode!Listen in as they share about:Haven's Kitchen's OriginChallenges in ScalingSustainability and PackagingLaunch of AiolisIndustry InsightsProduct Evolution and InnovationChallenges in BusinessMarketing StrategiesSocial Media and Brand PositioningRetail Success and Future OutlookAdvice for FoundersEpisode Links:Haven's Kitchen WebsiteAlison Cayne LinkedInDon'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 @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Daniel Scharff sits down with Kantha Shelke, a certified food scientist, and Jon Benninger, VP at Informa, to delve into an overview of SupplySide West—the best known supply chain trade show for the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. This event covers a wide array of sectors including food, beverage, dietary supplements, personal care, and animal nutrition.Daniel, Kantha, and Jon discuss how SupplySide West helps brands looking to connect with suppliers, discover new ingredients, explore packaging and co-packing solutions, and learn how to bring products from concept to market. They emphasize the significance of in-person networking, insights from panels on trends, compliance, and innovation, and strategies for making the most of the trade show experience, and talk about the overall importance of creating your supply chain network.From tips on setting clear goals and identifying key contacts to balancing scheduled meetings with spontaneous networking, they offer practical advice for both startups and established companies. They also share success stories, personal experiences, and insights on how to turn unexpected opportunities into valuable industry relationships.Tune in to hear how to maximize your SupplySide West experience and gain actionable advice for building and leveraging industry connections!Use code CPG50 for $50 off your Expo Pass registrationSupplySide West Registration > https://utm.io/registerhereStartup CPG Happy Hour @ SupplySide West Signup: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/startup-cpg-meets-supply-side-west-happy-hour-tickets-1001755707287Listen in as they share about:SupplySide West OverviewHow to Navigate SupplySide WestTypes of ExhibitorsNetworking and CollaborationImportance of In-Person Interaction:Target Audience and AttendeesValue of the EventThe Role of the Event in Business GrowthPractical Advice for AttendingEpisode Links:Informa Markets LinkedInJon Benninger LinkedInKantha Shelke LinkedInDon'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 @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy is joined by Jen Liao, co-founder of MìLà, a brand renowned for its delicious frozen Chinese soup dumplings. Jen reveals the fascinating journey of transforming MìLà from a local restaurant into a thriving direct-to-consumer brand amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges of developing recipes for freezing, the complexities of shipping frozen products, and the ongoing process of product refinement.Jen also delves into the strategic moves that have fueled MìLà's growth, including successful fundraising, high-profile collaborations with celebrities like Simu Liu, and expansion into major retailers such as Whole Foods and Costco. She shares invaluable insights on navigating both business and personal obstacles, including managing a significant facility relocation and balancing work with family life.Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation full of entrepreneurial wisdom and behind-the-scenes stories. Tune in now!Listen in as they share about:Background of MieleTransition from Restaurant to DTC Frozen ProductsRecipe DevelopmentChallenges in Frozen Food LogisticsAdvice for Other Frozen BrandsScaling and PlanningCelebrity Endorsement and Fundraising StrategyRetail Expansion and Future PlansEpisode Links:MìLà Website MìLà Instagram @eat.milaJennifer Liao LinkedInDon'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 @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Jason Murrell, the Director of Grocery at JIMBO’S, a leading organic and natural foods retailer in San Diego. Jason shares his inspiring journey through the grocery retail industry and provides an inside look at JIMBO’S commitment to high ingredient standards and sustainability. Discover how JIMBO’S fosters strong ties with local brands and communities while curating quality products.Jason also sheds light on the intricate world of retail relationships and distribution channels, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships and navigating certifications. He discusses emerging trends in bulk foods and regenerative organic products, as well as the role of product demos and promotions in driving sales. Learn how the local San Diego community, along with brokers and distributors, contributes to introducing innovative products to JIMBO’S shelves.Tune in now!Listen in as they share about:JIMBO’S Culture, Community Focus and Customer ExperienceSustainability and Regenerative AgricultureLocal Brands and PartnershipsRetail Opportunities and ValidationDistribution PartnershipsVendor and Broker RecommendationsStore SKUs and ManagementBulk FoodsSourcing and Selection ProcessConsumer Education on Regenerative PracticeRegenerative Offerings and Product CategoriesEpisode Links:JIMBO’S WebsiteJIMBO’S Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimbosnaturally 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 @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Patricia Menegoto and Kiki Huddleston from the Startup CPG team provide a fascinating insider look at the 2024 Shelfie Awards. They discuss the judging process, highlighting how they evaluated over 1,500 entries in various categories, from skincare to snacks. Expect insights on innovative pet products, unique beverages, and the evolution of plant-based alternatives. With excitement building for the upcoming awards ceremony, they emphasize the importance of recognizing outstanding brands and encourage future participation in the evolving marketplace.

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Grace Kennedy sits down with Cam Mathias, the visionary founder of Huntaway, an innovative pet food brand. Discover how Huntaway emerged during the COVID-19 lockdown with a mission to deliver nutritious, convenient, and sustainable food for dogs. Cam reveals the story behind Huntaway’s unique use of wild venison as a protein source and shares the journey of developing their innovative products.They explore the challenges and strategies of running a pet food company, from product development and logistics to customer acquisition. They also dive into the complexities of sustainable packaging and the manufacturing process, offering valuable insights into the pet food industry.Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of pet nutrition and sustainability. Tune in now!Listen in as they share about:Huntaway's Origin StoryKey Features and Benefits of Huntaway's ProductsProduct Development and SustainabilityGrowth and Market PresenceUnique Selling PointsCompostable Packaging and SustainabilityProduct and Packaging FeedbackConsumer Perception and Packaging EvolutionDog Food Storage and ConvenienceHuntaway's Online PresenceEpisode Links:Huntaway WebsiteCam Matthias LinkedInDon'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 @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Glenn Cunningham, Director of Center Store for Village Supermarkets, boasts a wealth of experience from Fairway Market to ShopRite. In this conversation, he reveals how the cooperative model of Wakefern shapes grocery shopping trends. Discover his insights on distributor preferences and the strategies for getting emerging brands onto shelves. Glenn also shares innovative ideas for driving in-store trials, leveraging social media, and enhancing customer engagement through live demos. Dive into the exciting dynamics of New York's grocery scene!

Veena Krishnan and Whitney McElwain, co-founders of Daybird, share their journey of creating an innovative 'anti-beauty' brand focused on simplicity and personal choice. They discuss their flagship 4-in-1 serum skin tint, emphasizing ingredient transparency and inclusivity. The duo reveals their unique marketing strategies and the importance of authentic influencer partnerships. They also tackle the challenges of retail presence and preparations for trade shows, illustrating the importance of community in their entrepreneurial journey.

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, join Daniel Scharff and a distinguished panel of investors, Salle Jian, Alex Malamatinas, Brandon Yahn, and Connor McKenna  from the beverage industry as they explore the latest trends and opportunities in the non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beverage market. They share insights from their experiences with brands like Seedlip, Kin Euphorics, and Liquid Death, highlighting the shift in consumer preferences toward healthier and alternative drinks.They also cover key topics such as consumer preferences, market opportunities, brand storytelling, and strategies for engaging with investors. The panelists emphasize the importance of authenticity, market understanding, traction metrics, and effective communication in building successful brands in the competitive spirits and beverages market.Additionally, they delve into startup pitches within the CPG industry. Founders present innovative product ideas, from non-alcoholic beverages to unique food products, aiming to attract investment. Key themes include product differentiation, market potential, sustainability, and personal founder stories, all delivered in concise 30-second pitches.Tune in for valuable insights and actionable advice for anyone interested in the evolving beverage industry!Listen in as they shares about:Non-Alcoholic and Low-Alcohol DrinksFounder's Story and PassionHealth and Wellness Beverages Unique Flavor Profiles and International InfluencesConsumer Behavior ShiftsRetail and Market StrategiesCorporate Venture and Strategic InvestmentsConsumer Trends and MarketingPurpose-Driven Brands and Multicultural ConsumersVC and Investment StrategiesTrade Shows and ConferencesMarket Opportunity and TractionFeedback from Investors and Diverse Product OfferingsEpisode Links:Diageo WebsiteSAP.iO WebsiteSalle Jian LinkedInAlex Malamatinas LinkedInMelitas Ventures WebsiteBrandon Yahn LinkedInConvivialité Ventures WebsiteConnor McKenna LinkedInPronghorn WebsiteDon'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 @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Join Grace Kennedy in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast as she sits down with Cassie and Chelsey Maschhoff, the inspiring founders of Lottie's Meats. Raised on a family pork farm, the sisters share their journey to revolutionize the meat industry with high-quality, natural ingredients through their Denver-based venture. They delve into dispelling myths, overcoming challenges as female entrepreneurs, and their strategic approach to product development and marketing. Discover their insights on pricing strategies, sustainable growth, and the keys to success in the competitive world of consumer packaged goods. Tune in for an enriching discussion on innovation, perseverance, and redefining standards in food entrepreneurship!Listen in as they share about:Motivation for Starting Lottie'sProduction ChallengesProduct Development and Business OperationsMarketing and Pricing StrategyBootstrapping and FundingBalancing Personal and Professional LifeCommunity and SupportFuture Goals and StrategyEpisode Links:Lottie’s Meats WebsiteChelsey Maschhoff’s LinkedInCassie Maschhoff’s  LinkedInDon'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 @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics