#140 Buyer Spotlight: Foodservice Buying with Lizz Ingrassia & Allie Cotter, Fresh Thyme

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to www.hummingbirds.comThis episode was sponsored by Simply Depo. Go to www.simplydepo.comIn this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, join Daniel Scharff as he dives into the world of foodservice with Lizz Ingrassia and Allie Cotter of Fresh Time Market. Delving into their journey from restaurant dining to packaged retail meals, Liz and Allie share their expertise on the importance of flavor, customer-centricity, and understanding consumer needs in product selection. With foodservice comprising a significant portion of store sales, they discuss the role of branded and non branded items and much more.Discover the challenges and triumphs of launching new products smoothly, working with suppliers, distribution strategies, and balancing labor issues with innovation. Learn valuable collaboration tips, including understanding store operations and delivering proposals aligned with customer expectations.Tune in to gain actionable strategies for enhancing brand credibility, fostering successful partnerships, and creating memorable experiences for consumers!Listen in as Lizz and Allie share about:Vendor Relationship and NegotiationProduct Testing and Quality AssuranceInventory and Distribution PlanningMarketing and PromotionMonitoring and FeedbackSupport and Promotions for BrandsSampling Tool and Distribution StrategiesSuccessful Brand ExamplesContractual Issues and Operational EfficiencyFirst-to-Market AdvantageConsumer Shopping Behavior, Recalls, and Product IssuesThanks to our episode sponsor, SimplyDepo (simplydepo.com). SimplyDepo is a super sales and merchandising platform designed to help emerging brands win independent stores. Powered by the technology, they help you find potential customers, digitize all ordering and merchandising activities, and get all the store insights you need to scale your business. Get in touch at [email protected] or visit simplydepo.com and make sure to mention hearing this message on the Startup CPG PodcastEpisode Links:Fresh Thyme WebsiteAllie’s LinkedInLizz’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.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 (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics Hummingbirds Link:to find case studies, content + an exclusive chance to win a FREE custom managed campaign. Visit hummingbirds.com/startupCPG Simply Depo Link:Improve your sales reps' efficiency for solid management support to scale your business, email [email protected] or visit simplydepo.com