34. How Plant-Based Drives Retail Growth With Mike Cooke, Daiya

34. If you still think plant-based is a niche for vegans, you're missing one of the fastest-growing profit drivers in retail. Plant-based isn't about restriction—it's about better-for-you choices that grow the entire basket.  In this episode, I sit down with Mike Cooke, VP of Sales at Daiya Foods, to unpack how plant-based products are reshaping category growth across natural and conventional retail. We discuss why "no compromise" taste matters, how allergen-free and dairy-free solutions attract high-value shoppers, and why plant-based consumers consistently outspend conventional shoppers at checkout. We also dive into merchandising strategy—why integration next to dairy drives incrementally, how retailers should leverage plant-based as a traffic engine, and how organizations like the Plant Based Foods Association are strengthening transparency and trust across the category. If you want to future-proof your brand and help retailers grow profitable sales across every department, this conversation is essential. Get instant access on the show webpage: RetailSolved.com/session34