Episode # 143 Andy Whitman-Managing partner at Loft Growth Partners

Episode #143 Today the Road 2 Retail team spends time with Andy Whitman - Managing Partner with the investment firm Loft Growth Partners. Andy shares his experiences over the course of our wide-ranging conversation about investing in Emerging Brands. Please follow the Road 2 Retail podcast- details below. Plus- give us a follow-on LinkedIn. Learn more at www.road2retail.com.Follow the Road 2 Retail podcast on the following platforms:Apple podcasts-https://lnkd.in/gs3BfXbd Spotify- https://lnkd.in/ewWcnYpY YouTube channel- https://www.youtube.com/@road2retail327. In today's discussion with Andy Whitman, we cover the following topics: - With EXPO West upon us, Andy discusses the importance of an emerging brand having a specific plan for this show and knowing what your goals are for the show- A recap of the M&A activities in the emerging brand space to date in 2026- lots of action!- The five points a brand must nail down to secure a meeting (let alone a check) from an investment firm- The importance of being aligned with an investor prior to accepting their money. Lack of alignment a major headache for founders and investors alike!- The need to be highly organized throughout the process of looking for funding. Financials must be very specific with regard to current expenses and the allocation of future investment dollars- A Wisconsin Badger fan with a budding interest in Colorado Buffaloes women's basketball as well!Thanks to our sponsors:Eagle Labs Inc: Contract manufacturing of OTC and HBA products https://www.eaglelabsinc.comMarket Performance Group- A sales agency helping brands growhttps://www.marketperfomancegroup.comEnjoy the show! Please share the Road 2 Retail with a colleague and leave us a review. Learn more at www.road2retail.com. Want to be on the show? DM us on LinkedIn!