From Family Business to Retail Powerhouse: How Marisa Sergi Scaled L’uva Bella Wines

Send us Fan MailIf you're a product-based founder trying to get into retail stores—and actually stay there—this episode is your blueprint.In this episode of Shelf Talks, I sit down with Marisa Sergi, CEO and co-founder of a multi-brand wine company, to break down what it really takes to build a retail-ready brand, pitch buyers with confidence, and scale from small beginnings to major retail shelves across the country.Marisa shares her journey from earning just $500 paychecks while starting her brand… to cold calling retailers, building trust with buyers, and turning data into sales stories that win shelf space. This is a masterclass in retail strategy, persistence, and smart scaling for any founder looking to grow in stores.We also dive into what happens after you land retail—because getting on the shelf is only half the battle.In this episode, you’ll learn: How to get your product into retail stores (even with no connections)  The exact approach to cold calling and pitching retail buyers Why data and storytelling are key to winning more accounts  The biggest mistakes founders make that cost them retail deals  How to drive in-store sales and build trust with retailers When to cut SKUs and focus on what actually sells What it takes to scale a product-based business in retailIf you're struggling with: Getting in front of buyers  Not knowing what to say in your pitch  Products sitting on shelves without selling  Or feeling stuck after landing your first retail account… This episode will give you the clarity and confidence to move forward.Luva Bella Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luvabellawines/Luva Bella Website: https://luvabella.com/winery/Brew Kettle Website: https://thebrewkettle.com/ Support the showEvent Partner: Nourish Summit & Expo (Oct. 5-7, 2027 | Baltimore) - Use code SHELFTALKS10 for 10% off full registration https://bit.ly/4sx0ZbaHow to Follow Shelf Talks Podcast on social:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shelftalkspodcast/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shelf-talks-podcastLove what you hear on Shelf Talks? You can now support the podcast. Every contribution helps bring more indie voices to the mic. Thank you for being part of this journey! ✨https://www.buzzsprout.com/2411532/supportContact us via email: [email protected] Reach out if you know of a female founder with an impactful brand and retail story and leave a review if you found value in this episode! [email protected] the book Shelf Talk: A step by step guide to launching your product in Retail Stores by Roberta Townes Buy Book