Market Plate

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Bashir Chedrawee, the founder of Simone's Kitchen, a fast-casual restaurant specializing in Mediterranean cuisine. Bashir shares his journey from aspiring medical professional to food entrepreneur, detailing how he and his mother created a unique dining experience that emphasizes wholesome, affordable food. The conversation explores the importance of hospitality, workplace culture, and the challenges of running a restaurant, as well as effective marketing strategies and the role of technology in the food industry. Bashir offers valuable insights for aspiring restaurant owners, emphasizing the need for resilience, adaptability, and a focus on both customer and employee satisfaction.TakeawaysBashir transitioned from a medical career to food entrepreneurship.Simone's Kitchen focuses on Mediterranean cuisine and meza bowls.The restaurant industry is hungry for healthy, affordable options.Hospitality and workplace culture are crucial for success.Resilience and adaptability are key traits for entrepreneurs.Word of mouth is a powerful marketing tool.Balancing quality and affordability is essential in food service.Technology can streamline operations but isn't always necessary.Listening to customer feedback is vital for improvement.Creating a happy team is as important as serving customers.

In this episode of Market Plate, Michael Wangbickler speaks with Lisa Hurwitz from HAPPI about the emerging market of THC beverages. They discuss the unique product offerings of HAPPI, which focus on low-dose, hemp-derived THC drinks designed for women. Lisa explains the differences between hemp-derived and cannabis-derived THC, the competitive landscape, and the importance of consumer education. They also explore the future of the THC beverage category and provide insights for new entrants in the market.TakeawaysLisa Hurwitz transitioned from a 20-year CPG career to the cannabis industry in 2018.HAPPY focuses on low-dose beverages designed for relaxation and socializing.The brand aims to empower women and reduce the stigma around cannabis.HAPPY's products are all under 10 milligrams of THC, catering to a more cautious consumer.The competitive landscape for THC beverages is rapidly evolving with many new entrants.Education is crucial for consumers new to THC beverages.The future of the THC beverage category may involve more regulation and sophisticated formulations.HAPPI's branding is designed to be fun and appealing to women.The company emphasizes product safety and transparency with testing and QR codes.Lisa advises new entrants to avoid distractions and maintain a clear brand strategy.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler interviews Bruce Osterhaven from Big O, a company specializing in smoked fish products. Bruce shares the origins of the company, founded by his grandfather and father, and discusses the challenges and opportunities in the seafood industry, including sourcing, quality control, and market trends. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to consumer demands for convenience and sustainability while navigating the complexities of sales and marketing in a multi-generational business. Bruce also offers insights into the challenges faced by the seafood industry, including pricing fluctuations and regulatory considerations, and shares valuable advice for those in similar business situations.TakeawaysBig O was founded in 1997 by Bruce's grandfather and father.The company specializes in smoked fish products, particularly white fish spread.Sourcing high-quality fish is crucial for product integrity.Seafood prices have significantly increased over the years due to various factors.Consumer demand is shifting towards convenience and sustainability in food products.Big O's sales are split between retail and food service markets.The seafood industry faces unique challenges, including tariffs and environmental issues.Marketing and brand recognition are essential for growth in the seafood sector.Multi-generational businesses require adaptability and strong leadership.Taking care of personal well-being is vital for effective leadership.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Jared Smith, Executive Vice President of Perfect Hydration, about the challenges and opportunities in the food and beverage industry, particularly focusing on the alkaline water market. They discuss the company's journey, sustainability efforts, marketing strategies, and the importance of adapting to consumer demands and market trends. Jared shares insights on navigating supply chain issues, leveraging data for growth, and the competitive landscape of the beverage industry.TakeawaysPerfect Hydration is one of the fastest growing waters in the country.The brand focuses on sustainability by sourcing all materials domestically.Aluminum packaging is being explored for its recyclability.The shift to bulk water has been a successful pivot for the brand.Listening to consumer demands is crucial for product development.Marketing strategies include partnerships with influencers and retail promotions.Navigating supply chain challenges requires flexibility and real-time forecasting.The brand aims for SKU proliferation to increase market presence.Data-driven insights are essential for growth and retailer engagement.Competition in the beverage industry is collaborative rather than adversarial.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Mike Wangbickler speaks with Kim Gandhi, founder of Food Fire Knives, about the private chef industry. They discuss the unique experience private chefs offer compared to traditional catering, the business model of Food Fire Knives, and the growth of the private chef market post-pandemic. Kim shares insights on navigating supply chain challenges, innovations in the marketplace, and what customers should expect when hiring a private chef. The conversation also touches on marketing strategies and future goals for the business.TakeawaysPrivate chefs provide a more personalized dining experience than caterers.Food Fire Knives acts as a broker between customers and chefs.The private chef industry is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.Chefs on the platform can set their own prices and menus.The service includes insurance and customer support for chefs.Private chefs often bring their own ingredients and equipment.The pandemic led to a surge in demand for private chefs.Local sourcing helps mitigate supply chain issues.Customer expectations should include background checks and food safety certifications.Marketing efforts are crucial for attracting new customers.

In this conversation, Michael Wangbickler interviews Jason Burke, the founder of a successful meat snacks company. Jason shares his unexpected journey into the food industry, driven by personal experiences with health and nutrition. He discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, including funding, supply chain issues, and the importance of maintaining core values while adapting to consumer demands. Jason emphasizes the need for focus in business strategy and the significance of leveraging e-commerce platforms like Amazon for growth. The conversation concludes with valuable insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the food and beverage sector.TakeawaysThe journey into the food industry can be unexpected.Personal health experiences can drive business innovation.Entrepreneurs must learn to navigate challenges in real-time.Funding is crucial for sustaining a food business.Product evolution is key to meeting market demands.Supply chain issues can significantly impact product availability.Maintaining core values is essential amidst challenges.Focus on one sales channel before expanding to others.E-commerce platforms are vital for modern business success.Transparency with consumers builds trust and loyalty.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Katherine Harvey, co-founder of Bare Bones, about the evolution of their bone broth products, the challenges of navigating the food and beverage industry, and the importance of protein in consumer diets. They discuss the market strategy that led to their success in major retailers, the impact of economic conditions on supply chains, and the future initiatives for the brand. Katherine shares insights on consumer trends and the significance of providing food that is both nutritious and flavorful.TakeawaysKatherine Harvey is a former journalist who co-founded Bare Bones.Bare Bones started with liquid bone broth and now focuses on instant bone broth.Bone broth is a nutritious alternative to traditional stock, rich in protein.Consumers are using bone broth for both sipping and cooking.The instant bone broth is convenient and shelf-stable, appealing to on-the-go consumers.Bare Bones has partnered with major retailers like Costco and Amazon for distribution.The company focuses on in-store marketing and retail media for visibility.Economic conditions and tariffs are impacting supply chains significantly.Protein consumption is a growing trend among consumers, driven by health awareness.Bare Bones is planning a brand evolution to align with its current market position.

In this episode of Market Plate, Michael Wangbickler speaks with Jimmy Kleiman, COO of Uncle Arnie's, about the evolving landscape of THC beverages. They discuss the company's journey since its inception in 2020, the trends driving growth in the THC beverage market, and the importance of consumer education. Jimmy shares insights on dosage equivalency to alcohol, the challenges of distribution and marketing in a heavily regulated industry, and the innovative subscription model that Uncle Arnie's has implemented. The conversation highlights the need for adaptability in the cannabis sector and the exciting potential for THC beverages in the mainstream market.TakeawaysUncle Arnie's launched in 2020, focusing on THC beverages.The company aims to make cannabis beverages accessible and enjoyable.THC beverages are gaining popularity as healthier alternatives to alcohol.The market is seeing exponential growth, especially in hemp-derived products.Consumer curiosity is driving the demand for THC beverages.Understanding dosage is crucial for safe consumption of THC drinks.The company has experienced significant growth, expanding from 8 to over 50 employees.Distribution strategies focus on partnerships with select distributors.Marketing efforts include in-store promotions and engaging brand presentations.Data collection in the THC industry is still developing, relying on distributor feedback.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Liz Butts, founder of Sprinkle Pop, about her journey from cake decorating to creating a successful sprinkle business. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the food and beverage industry, the importance of understanding customer needs, current trends in the sprinkle market, and effective marketing strategies. Liz shares insights on regulatory compliance, the significance of delegation in business, and her growth plans for the future.TakeawaysLiz Butts transitioned from a finance career to cake decorating.She identified a gap in the sprinkle market and launched Sprinkle Pop.The business focuses on unique and customizable sprinkle options.Natural colors are becoming a trend, but they often lack flavor.Marketing strategies have shifted towards Amazon for better customer acquisition.Licensing deals with popular brands can expand market reach.Seasonal flavors and colors drive sales throughout the year.Regulatory compliance is crucial for scaling a food business.Delegation is essential for business growth and efficiency.Finding the right people is key to overcoming operational challenges.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Michael Dean from Cali Sober about the emerging market of THC-infused beverages. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the beverage industry, particularly focusing on the rise of alternative drinks among younger consumers. Dean shares insights on building a brand, navigating regulations, and the importance of effective marketing strategies. The conversation also touches on funding strategies and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the beverage space.TakeawaysThe THC beverage market is rapidly evolving and expanding.Cali Sober targets a younger demographic seeking alternatives to alcohol.Building a beverage brand requires significant investment and strategic planning.Understanding state regulations is crucial for success in the THC market.Effective marketing strategies are essential for brand visibility and growth.Networking within the beverage community can provide valuable support and insights.Cash flow management is critical for sustaining business operations.Identifying and targeting specific consumer demographics can enhance brand loyalty.Investing in strong branding is vital for standing out in a competitive market.Learning from mistakes is part of the entrepreneurial journey.

In this episode of MarketPlate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Scott O'Malley from clr!ty, a THC beverage company. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the THC beverage market, including product lines, dosage, market trends, consumer education, and the impact of legislation and insurance on the industry. Scott shares insights on the evolution of the market, the importance of educating consumers, and the future of THC beverages as they expand into new states and product offerings.TakeawaysScott O'Malley has diverse business experience, including in THC beverages.Clarity offers a range of THC-infused beverages, including seltzers and cold brews.The THC beverage market is rapidly evolving with increasing consumer interest.Education is crucial for consumers unfamiliar with THC products.Insurance issues pose challenges for bars and restaurants selling THC beverages.The market is seeing a mix of older and younger consumers.Scott predicts a $28 billion industry for THC beverages in the coming years.Legislation varies by state, impacting product availability and marketing.Clarity is expanding its product lines and entering new states.Hemp-derived THC offers legal advantages over marijuana-derived products.

In this episode of Market Plate, Michael Wangbickler speaks with Bobby Barton about the evolving landscape of the beverage industry, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for emerging brands. Bobby shares insights on building RPC Brands, the importance of consumer connection, and the need for consultative selling in a competitive market. They discuss trends in wine and spirits, including the rise of rum and the impact of health and wellness on consumer choices.TakeawaysRPC Brands was created to support small to mid-sized beverage brands.Building a sales team around a few products can be challenging.Consumer connection is essential for brand success.Consultative selling helps identify and solve customer problems.The wine category has seen a decline in recent years.Emerging brands need to focus on storytelling and engagement.Distribution challenges require innovative solutions.Secondary markets offer untapped opportunities for growth.Health and wellness trends are influencing consumer choices.Rum is poised for a renaissance in the spirits market.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Anne Djerai, CEO of Metropolis Coffee, about the evolving landscape of the coffee industry. They discuss the company's culture, innovations, and the impact of consumer preferences on coffee consumption. Anne shares insights on sourcing challenges, pricing fluctuations, and the influence of major brands like Starbucks on coffee culture. The conversation highlights the importance of ethical sourcing and the growing trend of convenience in coffee consumption, especially in the wake of COVID-19.TakeawaysMetropolis Coffee has a personal and approachable culture.Innovation is key in the coffee industry.Cold brew coffee is becoming a year-round trend.Consumers are focusing more on the coffee experience.Extract and concentrate products are gaining popularity.Ethical sourcing and transparency are increasingly important.Price fluctuations in coffee sourcing are challenging for businesses.Drive-through coffee shops are on the rise post-COVID.The coffee industry is seeing a surge in ready-to-drink options.Starbucks continues to influence coffee trends significantly.

In this episode, Michael Wangbickler interviews Chad Copher, the general manager of Heringer Estates, a family-run winery in Clarksburg, California. They discuss Chad's journey into the wine industry, the history and operations of Heringer Estates, and the challenges the wine market is currently facing. The conversation also explores strategies for attracting younger generations of wine drinkers, the importance of creating memorable experiences, and innovative event strategies to drive growth. Chad shares insights on current trends in wine consumption and production, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and authenticity in the industry.TakeawaysChad Copher transitioned from retail to the wine industry.Heringer Estates has a rich history dating back to 1868.The winery produces a variety of wines and also sells grapes to other wineries.Building long-term relationships is crucial in the wine business.The wine industry is currently facing challenges in grape sales and market demand.Attracting younger generations requires a shift in marketing and experience.The experience economy is becoming more important in the wine industry.Innovative events can help wineries engage with customers and drive sales.Sweet wines and approachable varieties are gaining popularity among new wine drinkers.Sustainability and authenticity are key values for attracting the next generation.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Alex Sarnow from Spruce Confections about the challenges and opportunities in the baked goods industry. They discuss the company's growth plans, market trends, specialty baked goods, and the challenges faced by the industry, including staffing and pricing. Alex shares insights on building relationships in the wholesale market and the importance of marketing strategies. The conversation concludes with Alex's favorite product and thoughts on the future of Spruce Confections.TakeawaysSpruce Confections has been around since 1992, starting from a home kitchen.The company has four retail locations and two commercial bakeries.Growth plans for 2025 focus on expanding wholesale and local business.There is a demand for specialty baked goods like gluten-free and vegan options.Pricing of ingredients like butter and eggs has significantly increased.Consumers are willing to spend more for quality baked goods.Building relationships with coffee shops is crucial for success.Staffing challenges are a common issue in the baking industry.Marketing strategies are evolving as the company grows.Alex's favorite product is a gluten-free breakfast bun that tastes like an English muffin.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Pete Ferrari, the founder of Healthy for Life Foods, about his entrepreneurial journey and the introduction of Jaka sugar, a healthier alternative to traditional sugar. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the food industry, the importance of consumer education, and the company's commitment to social responsibility through initiatives aimed at combating nutritional inequality. Ferrari shares insights on market trends, consumer behavior, and the need for transparency and trust in the food industry.TakeawaysPete Ferrari has built five companies across different industries over 35 years.Jaka sugar offers metabolic benefits and tastes like traditional sugar.The food industry is seeing a shift towards healthier alternatives.Consumer awareness and education are crucial for market success.75% of Americans are trying to reduce sugar intake but still prefer its taste.The internet has changed how consumers research and purchase food products.Trust in big corporations is declining among consumers.Healthy for Life Foods aims to combat nutritional inequality.The company is a certified pending B corporation, emphasizing ethics and purpose.Future goals include expanding product offerings and health initiatives.

In this conversation, Alanna Ti'a shares her journey as a solopreneur in the baking industry, discussing the challenges and opportunities she faced while establishing her home bakery. She emphasizes the importance of adapting to market trends, understanding cottage food laws, and leveraging SEO for business growth. Alanna also addresses supply chain issues, pricing strategies, and offers valuable advice for aspiring bakers.TakeawaysAlanna Ti'a pivoted from calligraphy to baking due to market demand.She operates a home bakery and has streamlined her processes for efficiency.Google SEO and automated customer feedback have been crucial for her success.Understanding local cottage food laws allowed her to expand her business.Staying updated with baking trends is essential for customer satisfaction.Supply chain issues, especially with eggs and chocolate, have impacted pricing.Alanna encourages giving free samples as a marketing strategy.She emphasizes the importance of customer feedback in shaping her offerings.Future trends include dessert tables and unique flavor combinations.Alanna advises aspiring bakers to prepare thoroughly before launching their business.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Josh Rothstein from Redstone Foods about the current challenges in the candy industry. They discuss market trends, consumer behavior, the impact of tariffs, and the shift towards online business models. Rothstein shares insights on regional preferences for snack products, emerging flavor trends, and the importance of building long-term relationships in business. The conversation highlights the need for adaptability and innovation in a rapidly changing market.TakeawaysConsumers are trading down in size or price due to economic concerns.Online business models are becoming increasingly important for retailers.Regional preferences influence snack product sales significantly.Tariffs are causing uncertainty in manufacturing and product innovation.Pistachio is emerging as a popular flavor trend in the candy market.Building long-term relationships is crucial in the candy business.Fun and novelty are key elements in attracting customers to candy products.The blog and online presence of Redstone Foods is a significant marketing tool.Pickle flavored products are gaining popularity among consumers.Investing in warehouse space is essential for meeting growing demand.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Mike speaks with Vincent Beretta of Tres Lecheria about the challenges and opportunities in the food and beverage industry, particularly in the dessert sector. They discuss the journey of Cubes Baking Company, the impact of the pandemic, market trends towards clean label products, and the importance of efficiency and sustainability in production. Vincent shares insights on navigating current headwinds, capacity constraints, and effective marketing strategies, as well as valuable advice for new entrepreneurs in the industry.TakeawaysVincent Beretta has extensive experience in the food and beverage industry.Cubes Baking Company was founded with a focus on high-quality, scratch-made desserts.The pandemic forced a pivot to wholesale distribution, which became successful.Market trends show a growing demand for clean label and organic products.Sustainability practices are becoming increasingly important in the industry.Rising egg prices are a significant challenge for dessert producers.Capacity constraints are limiting growth opportunities for Tres Lecheria.Efficiency in production is crucial for maintaining profitability in wholesale.Trade shows are essential for networking and marketing in the food industry.New entrepreneurs should focus on keeping costs low and learning from mistakes.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Justin Honeysuckle, co-founder of Tended Bar, an innovative automated cocktail dispensing system. They discuss the evolution of Tended Bar, its unique features, and the challenges faced in the hospitality industry, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Justin shares insights on market positioning, operational challenges, and the importance of customer experience. He emphasizes the need for passion in entrepreneurship and the adaptability required to thrive in a changing market.TakeawaysTended Bar started as a college project and evolved into a business.The system allows for self-service cocktails, enhancing customer experience.Facial recognition technology replaced RFID wristbands during COVID-19.Operational challenges include reliance on external teams and systems.Creating a unique customer experience is crucial for success.The market for automated bars is expanding beyond traditional venues.Passion for the business translates into better sales and partnerships.Adapting to market needs is essential for growth.Tended Bar can serve both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.Understanding customer preferences can drive product development.

In this episode of Market Plate, Michael Wangbickler speaks with Jody Hall, founder of Wunderground, about the innovative approach to coffee that incorporates adaptogens for wellness. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the food and beverage industry, particularly in the coffee market, and how Wunderground positions itself as a leader in this emerging category. Jody shares insights on the importance of taste, the role of their cafe as a research and development space, and the future plans for growth and fundraising.TakeawaysWunderground aims to add wellness to daily coffee rituals.Adaptogens are natural substances that help the body adapt to stress.The cafe serves as a profitable billboard and R&D playground.Coffee innovation has been stagnant for the past two decades.Daily consumption of adaptogens can enhance well-being.Packaging is designed to inspire curiosity and wonder.Direct-to-consumer strategies are a focus for future growth.Supply chain challenges exist due to tariffs and sourcing.The coffee market is seeing a rise in health-focused products.Wunderground is positioned to lead in the adaptogenic coffee space.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Jim Birch, co-founder of Salsa Queen, about the journey of the company, its innovative product lines, and the challenges faced in the food and beverage industry. Jim shares insights on managing hyper growth, supply chain strategies, maintaining quality, and marketing efforts. The conversation also touches on future growth plans and the adoption of technology in production processes.TakeawaysSalsa Queen started as a local business and has expanded significantly.The company transitioned from local deliveries to a broader distribution network during COVID.Innovative freeze-dried salsa products have opened new markets.Managing rapid growth is a key challenge for the company.Supply chain disruptions have led to increased safety stock levels.Quality is prioritized over cost, with no fillers in products.Marketing strategies include social media and in-store promotions.The freeze-dried product line is now a top seller.Future growth projections are optimistic, with plans for new products.Technology adoption, such as X-ray machines, enhances production safety.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Charles Alpers from Zeppole Bakery about the challenges and opportunities in the food and beverage industry. They discuss the evolution of the bakery, competition, rising costs, and the importance of consumer education regarding artisan products. Alpers shares insights from his extensive experience in the hospitality industry and the unique aspects of running an artisan bakery in Boise, Idaho.TakeawaysCharles Alpers has extensive experience in the hospitality industry.Zeppole Bakery has doubled its revenue since Alpers took over.Artisan bread is known for its unique flavors and textures.Competition from other bakeries is a significant challenge.Rising costs of ingredients are affecting profit margins.Social media is an underutilized opportunity for marketing.Consumer education on artisan products is crucial.Quality ingredients are essential for maintaining standards.The bakery has a loyal customer base due to consistency.Understanding the value of handmade products is important.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Michael Memsic, co-founder and CEO of Sanitas Brewing, about the challenges and opportunities in the craft brewing industry. They discuss the journey of Sanitas Brewing, the importance of community, navigating competition, current trends in craft beer, and the future of alcohol consumption. Memsic emphasizes the need for breweries to focus on experience and hospitality while adapting to changing consumer preferences.TakeawaysSanitas Brewing was founded in 2013 and has expanded to multiple locations.The craft beer industry has seen significant growth, with nearly 10,000 breweries in the U.S.Community building is a core ethos for Sanitas Brewing.The craft beer market is experiencing a correction with some breweries closing.Navigating competition in Boulder requires a unique approach.Consumers are looking for good, clean, consistent beer rather than novelty.Experience and hospitality are crucial for success in the brewing industry.Current trends show a shift towards moderation in alcohol consumption.Expansion plans focus on direct-to-consumer experiences rather than wholesale.The importance of educating consumers about beer preferences is vital.

SummaryIn this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler engages with Mark Samuel, a seasoned entrepreneur in the food and beverage industry. They discuss the current challenges and opportunities within the CPG sector, the importance of having a strong product and brand story, and the realities of launching a new snack company. Mark shares his insights on market trends, the significance of packaging, and the emotional connection brands need to establish with consumers. The conversation also touches on personal growth, finding peace amidst business challenges, and the value of gratitude.TakeawaysMark Samuel has over 20 years of experience in various businesses, focusing on food and beverage for the last eight years.Current market trends show a saturation of similar products, with few brands standing out.Successful brands need to have a strong story and emotional connection with consumers.Launching a snack company is challenging, with a low chance of success without a solid plan.Packaging and branding are crucial for attracting consumers in a crowded market.Entrepreneurs should focus on substantial margins and a fantastic product to succeed.The importance of being authentic and transparent in brand messaging is emphasized.Mark believes that personal growth and gratitude play a significant role in business success.Listening to podcasts has become a preferred method of learning for Mark over reading.The conversation highlights the need for businesses to adapt and evolve in a changing market.