Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford

Send us Fan MailMany  founders sense something is getting in the way of their growth. They just can’t put their finger on what it is.My guest today is Janessa Rutter, founder of Bask & Co., a Coeliac Australia-endorsed breakfast and snack company. Three years ago, Janessa was on the show with 40 stockists and baking her own product. Today she has 650 stockists nationally, including 300 Woolworths supermarkets and a co-manufacturer.In this episode, Janessa and I talk about what actually changed  and what had to change, inside and out, before the business could scale. We get into her ADHD diagnosis, what it explained about the imposter syndrome and rejection sensitivity she'd been carrying for years, and why that single realisation was the moment everything shifted.We also talk about the decision to step out of production, how niching into the coeliac community changed her ranging conversations with buyers, and why systems aren't boring;  they're the business.If you face personal challenges that get in the way of building a scaling business, this episode is for you.Season 17 is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company. If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, landing your first major retailer, or figuring out procurement—NFTC is worth knowing about.LINKS & RESOURCES:Bask & Co websiteEpisode #75 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome to Land More AccountsNFTC websiteNFTC LinkedIn pageYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailFinding the right manufacturer is usually the key to scale. And getting it wrong doesn’t just slow you down. It costs you time and money.My guest today is Naishad Dalal, founder of Food Entrepreneurship Academy, also known as FEA Food Innovation. They take brands from product concept all the way to shelf.In this episode, Naishad and I talk about the red flags you should watch out for when you're talking to co-manufacturers — and the three questions every founder should ask before committing to a co-packer. We also talk about why the wrong fit doesn't just cost you money. Of course it does. But something far more valuable in small business. And that's time.We also break down minimum order quantities and what happens when your packaging format blows your numbers out.If you've ever looked at a shot bottle or a sauce jar and wondered how the math works at scale — listen closely.If you're developing a product, about to go into commercial production, or dealing with issues with your current manufacturer — this episode is for you.Season 17 is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company. If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, landing your first major retailer, or figuring out procurement—NFTC is worth knowing about.LINKS & RESOURCES:FEA websiteNaishad Dalal LinkedInStickybeak Station & People’s Choice Award at Foodpreneurs FestivalNFTC websiteNFTC LinkedIn pageYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailDon't treat your label as the last thing you sort before going to print. Retail buyers assess your label before they'll taste your product. They have to. Competitors can scan your claims looking for grounds to report you. A formulation change — even a small one - or a new product launch means you need a compliant label. Every time.Bring compliance into your NPD from the start - not as a checklist, but as a strategic tool. Nutrient content claims, general level health claims, health star ratings — used together, they let you build a marketing story that's genuinely substantiated. One that holds up to a buyer, a competitor, and an enforcer. That's differentiation. And it comes from your regulatory work, not despite it.In episode 161 of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast, Roslyn Anderson — founder of Tastebuddies, a regulatory compliance consultancy — breaks down why your food label is a legal document, not a design asset, and what's actually at stake if you get it wrong.Don't miss this episode - you'll learn:🛒 Why retail buyers assess label compliance before they'll taste your product ⚗️ The ingredients tripping founders up right now🔄 What a formulation change means for your entire regulatory position 🚨 Allergen recalls: what they look like for a small brand, and why your recall plan needs to exist before you need it 📈 Claims stacking: how to use compliance to build brand differentiation and a substantiated marketing storyThis episode of Season 17 is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company. If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase - scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter - NFTC is worth knowing about.LINKS & RESOURCES:Tastebuddies websiteTastebuddies InstagramNFTC websiteNFTC LinkedIn pageYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderGrab Your Foodpreneurs Festival TicketChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to build a brand that lives in the hearts and minds of consumers without a big budget, a big team, or a big agency behind you?In episode 160 of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast, I sit down with Mirko Bonmassar, founder of Social Fixation, a marketing agency with a fixation on making brands impossible to ignore. In this episode you’ll learn:🎯 What a brand campaign actually is and why it doesn't have to cost what you think it might🏗️ The difference between building a product, a brand, and a business and why it matters 👀 Who you're really competing with for attention (it's not who you think)💡 The "What If" practise Social Fixation uses to unlock creative campaign ideas 🙌 A case study that proves a great campaign can cost next to nothing and how you can do it yourself 🏆 Why the BiteBack Awards Brand Campaign category is more within reach than you thinkThe BiteBack Awards Brand Campaign category is sponsored by Social Fixation. If this episode has you thinking you've got a campaign worth entering, head to https://foodpreneursfestival.com/biteback-awards/ to find out more.This episode of Season 17 is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company. If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.LINKS & RESOURCES:Social Fixation websiteMirko Bonmassar LinkedInBiteBack Awards webpageHyro websiteNFTC websiteNFTC LinkedIn pageYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderGrab Your Foodpreneurs Festival TicketChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailShe was hyperventilating backstage. Her cards went everywhere. She ran over time. She was ready to congratulate someone else when they announced the winner.That winner was Theresa Dang from SUP Foods. Theresa won the inaugural CPG Investor Hub pitch competition at Foodpreneurs Festival 2025.SUP Foods is Asian freeze-dried soup cubes inspired by Theresa’s family's greenhouses in Vietnam. Before SUP Foods, Theresa had no food industry background, had never pitched to investors, and was up against founders with major retailer listings and corporate pedigree. In episode 159 of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast, Theresa gets into what it really takes to build a food brand from the ground up while working full-time and what happens when you back yourself publicly, even when every nerve in your body is telling you not to.Don't miss this episode — you'll learn:💡 What the CPG Investor Hub investors told Theresa about business structure, trademarks, and getting investor-ready🤝 What happened after she was crowned the winner and what she walked away withThis episode of Season 17 is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company. If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.The CPG Investor Hub returns at Foodpreneurs Festival 2026. Applications are open now at foodpreneursfestival.com.LINKS & RESOURCES:SUP Foods websiteNFTC websiteNFTC LinkedIn pageYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderGrab Your Foodpreneurs Festival TicketChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailYour ingredient supply chain is the backbone of your product. Get it right from the start and everything else — ranging conversations, scaling production, landing major accounts — becomes a lot more manageable.The challenge is, most brand owners are laser-focused on their finished product — the packaging and the branding — and the supply chain gets built around it as an afterthought. But what happens when you can't get your product on shelf in the first place? Or when your single-origin ingredient is suddenly unavailable? Or when you finally scale and your supplier can't move with you?In episode 158 of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast, Shaun Borg — sales lead for Langdon, the go-to purveyor of the finest ingredients, and the man overseeing the Natural Foods Trading Company (NFTC) — shares everything you need to know about sourcing ingredients, straight from someone who has been doing it for over 25 years, with origin trips across India, Vietnam, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Cambodia under his belt.Don't miss this episode — you'll learn:🌶️ Why unique ingredients are not your point of difference — and what to do instead📦 How to source by the bag, not the pallet, and set yourself up to scale🏪 Why starting with Independent retailers before major retailers is still the smartest move🤝 How to set yourself up as a customer worth investing in, even when your volumes are smallThis episode of Season 17 is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company. If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.LINKS & RESOURCES:NFTC websiteNFTC LinkedIn pageYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderGrab Your Foodpreneurs Festival TicketChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailPitching your story does not mean telling people everything about your product.Yet many do. When you're close to what you've built — every detail, every decision, every reason it's better — it can all come out at once when given half a chance to talk about it.The problem is, customers, buyers and distributors won't listen for more than a few seconds. And buyers have heard it all before. #sorrynotsorryThe consequence is real. Inconsistent, overloaded messaging erodes trust before a customer even picks up your product, makes ranging conversations harder, and means every new stockist, channel, or distributor feels like starting from scratch.In episode 157 of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast, Jayne Gallagher and Helen Johnston from Honey & Fox, a specialist branding and marketing agency working with premium food and drink businesses, walk through how to fix it, including their framework for building the soundbites that become the foundation of everything your brand says and does.Don't miss this episode — you'll learn: 🎬 How to create a movie trailer, not an essay, for your brand story 🗣️ The "and, but, therefore" structure for building soundbites that stop people in the aisle🚫 The language trap that makes good brands invisible 👁️ How inconsistency across your touchpoints kills consumer trust 💡 Why you can't build your brand story alone and what to do insteadThis episode of Season 16 - Planning Season - is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival. The only Festival where packaged brands get seen, stocked and supported. Jayne and Helen are also bringing their Brand Story Studio to Foodpreneurs Festival in May. Details are on the Foodpreneurs Festival website.LINKS & RESOURCES:Honey & Fox websiteEpisode 148 Marketing System for Food Brands: Clear, Consistent, Low Maintenance Your Free Pitch PlanGrab Your Foodpreneurs Festival TicketChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailYour product is good. Your packaging was too — once. But something's shifted.Maybe your range has grown and the system hasn't kept up. Maybe you're pitching to bigger retailers but your pack still has a farmer's market feel. Maybe sales have plateaued and you can't put your finger on why.In episode 155 of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast, I chat with Natalie Townsend, founder and creative director of Griffin Grace, a brand and packaging studio that works with founder-led CPG brands across food, beverage, beauty, and wellness.You may remember Natalie from episode 71 where we covered building a brand from scratch. Today we go deeper into the refresh: what to do when your packaging is holding your brand back.Tune in to hear Natalie share:🚨 The warning signs your packaging is creating friction — and costing you ranging opportunities🔍 The strategic work that happens before a single design decision is made📋 Why compliance changes are actually a gift — and how to use them to your advantage💸 How to approach a refresh without throwing everything out and blowing your budget🗓️ Why your packaging is never truly finished — and how to plan for that without it freaking you out🏆 How a Byron Bay muesli brand listened to a David Jones buyer and got listedNatalie also walks through real client examples — including how a staged refresh approach helped brands stay consistent while evolving, and why the cost of doing nothing is higher than most founders realise.This episode of Season 16 - Planning Season - is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival. The only Festival where packaged brands get seen, stocked and supported. Natalie will be there speaking on the Dream Lab stage and exhibiting in the Festival Fairground. Make sure you drop by to hear her talk and say hi to her in the Festival Fairground!LINKS & RESOURCES:Griffin Grace websiteEpisode 71 Branding & Packaging to Get Your Product Off the ShelfYour Free Pitch PlanGrab Your Foodpreneurs Festival TicketChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailTwo creatives, a side startup, and a pasta sauce that's turning heads across Australia.In Episode 155 of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast - Season 16, Planning Season - I sit down with Lachlan and Grga, the Melbourne co-founders behind Sorry Nonna. One's a graphic designer. The other's an advertising creative director who's worked with Netflix and Gatorade. Together, they're doing things in the pasta sauce category that Nonna absolutely did not approve.Gochujang Arrabbiata. Limoncello Marinara. A limited-edition Carolina Reaper collab with Doom Juice wine. Oh, and a coffee bolognese that consumer testing quietly killed before it saw the light of day.But underneath the cheeky branding and flavour obsession, there's a real business story, about what happens when creatives lean hard into their strengths, start planning (loosely), and build a cult following before chasing the majors.Tune in to hear:🍝 How Grga and Lachlan built a brand world first, and why they believe everything else follows from that🍝 What winning a BiteBack Award actually unlocked for them - including the consumer testing that saved them from a very bad idea🍝 Why they're in 100+ stockists in stores they genuinely love, and what that's done for their growth🍝 How planning doesn't have to kill your creativity - it just needs to suit youThis episode of Season 16 - Planning Season - is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival. The only Festival where packaged brands get seen, stocked and supported.LINKS & RESOURCES:Sorry Nonna websiteSorry Nonna InstagramBiteBack Awards Entry KitYour Free Pitch PlanGrab Your Foodpreneurs Festival TicketChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailYou’re putting out content, but is anyone really noticing? Or are your posts getting lost in the feed?I sat down with Sarah Kiryshin and Mandy Humphreys, co-founders of Content Bites, to uncover how food and beverage brands can make content that doesn’t just exist—it connects, excites, and sells. These two know why “beautiful food” is often your golden ticket and how to produce it fast without burning out.In this episode, we break down exactly what works in 2026:📱How consumers are actually watching content - and how to grab them before they scroll past ⏱️ The video length sweet spot that keeps eyes on your brand 🍓Why showing your food in its best light isn’t optional - it’s critical ⚡Quick content production hacks that actually generate excitement ❤️ The secret to creating posts that build real connection and loyaltyThis episode of Season 16 - Planning Season - is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival. The only Festival where packaged brands get seen, stocked, and supported. Sarah and Mandy will be there, make sure to say hi to them in the Festival Fairground!LINKS & RESOURCES:Content Bites InstagramContent Bites websiteYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailRunning a consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand is exciting, but it comes with financial challenges - from inventory management to seasonal sales swings. In this episode, I sit down with Tien Do from BlueRock to break down the essential tools for building confidence and control in your business finances.What you’ll learn in this episode:💵  Sales vs Cash Flow: Understanding the difference and why having sales doesn’t always mean having available cash. 📅 The 13-Week Cash Flow Forecast: A simple, actionable method to see trends, anticipate tight spots, and make informed decisions.⛽ Working Capital Explained: What it is, why it matters, and the levers founders can pull to manage it.🔮 Planning Ahead: How far in advance you need to forecast to handle seasonal highs and lows, and how this links to your personal remuneration and business growth.🏆 Awards as a Strategic Tool: Even if you don’t win, why accountants want you to enter. Who knew!🌳 Seeing the Forest for the Trees: Step back, block out time for your business, and make decisions with a clear destination in mind.This episode of Season 16 - Planning Season - is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival. The only Festival where packaged brands get seen, stocked and supported.LINKS & RESOURCES:BlueRock websiteTien Do LinkedInFoodpreneurs Festival ticketsBiteBack AwardsBiteBack Awards Entry KitYour Free Pitch PlanChelsea Ford Co. Industry Newsletter📅 Event Update: The March 5th Shelf Velocity event at BlueRock, Melbourne has been cancelled.Season 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailWhat actually makes a buyer say yes?And more importantly… how do you avoid becoming the bottom 5% in your category and getting delisted?In this powerhouse conversation, I sit down with Stuart O’Reilly from LaManna, one of Australia’s largest independent supermarkets, to unpack what founders rarely get told about retail.This episode was so good we had to restart the recording due to tech hiccups - and honestly, I’m glad we did. What followed was a candid, generous and deeply practical conversation about brand building, demand creation and what it truly means to partner with a retailer.In this episode, we unpack:🔥 Real examples of brands who executed brilliantly - layering activations, in-store demos, social buzz, collaboration and display strategy to drive serious uplift🛒 What buyers actually look for when you approach them - from tone of communication to brand story, shelf presence and category gaps📈 Why demand creation matters more than product alone (and how smart brands prime momentum before they ever hit shelf)📦 Supply chain realities founders often underestimate - and how poor replenishment can quietly derail early success💡 The difference between “ranging” and true partnership - what backing your brand in-store really looks like⚖️ The delicate balance of margin, price promotion, and protecting your brand value🚨 What puts a product on the delist watchlist - and how to stay off itThis episode of Season 16 - Planning Season - is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival. The only Festival where packaged brands get seen, stocked and supported. LINKS & RESOURCES:LaManna websiteLaManna InstagramStuart O’Reilly LinkedInYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailGetting on shelf is a milestone, but (close your ears if you're faint hearted), it's just the starting line.In episode 151 of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast, I sit down with Rebecca Brook, founder of Rise Growth Lab, a food and beverage accelerator.This conversation is for brand owners already on shelf. If you want to finish 2026 with more accounts, more reorders and more money in your pocket - and stop leaving it on the table - this is your episode.Grab your pen and tune in to hear:🛒 How to improve your rate of sale🎯 Best practice for selecting the right channel partners💰 The difference between COGS-plus-guesswork and what consumers will actually pay📊 What a 30, 60, 90 day promotional plan looks like without a big budget🔄 What you need to do to get reorders📦 The cost of goods levers most founders haven't pulled yetThis episode of Season 16 - Planning Season - is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival. The only Festival where packaged brands get seen, stocked and supported. Rebecca will be there speaking on the Dream Lab stage. Make sure you drop into her talk and say hi to her in the Festival Fairground!LINKS & RESOURCES:Rise Growth Lab websiteRise Growth Lab InstagramRebecca Brook LinkedInProduct on More Shelves ChecklistRise Food & Beverage AcceleratorYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailYour brand is killing it on social media. Sales are growing. But are you actually making money?In episode 150 of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast - the first episode of Season 16, Planning Season - I sit down with Jason Stockton, founder of ERP system, Supply'd, and Patrick LaManna, CEO of LaManna Supermarket and Director of social media sensation Pistachio Papi.Here's the thing: even wildly successful brands with a multitude of followers need tight operational systems. They still need to nail forecasting, manage cashflow, and understand true costs. Jason's Supply'd helps food businesses do exactly that - streamlining inventory, production, and financial planning so you're not bleeding money as you scale.This conversation is a reality check for every brand owner who thinks growth solves operational problems. It doesn't. It exposes them.Grab your pen and tune in to hear:💰 What you need to understand your true costs🏭 How to manage unpredictable ordering patterns📦 Managing your cashflow when you have multiple sales channels all with different lead times⏱️ How to prevent overproduction, stockouts, and missed orders🎯 The forecasting shift that protects your margins when wholesale customers are expecting their order and you can't just sell them something elseThis is the first episode of Season 16 - Planning Season, brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival. The only Festival where packaged brands get seen, stocked and supported. Jason will be there delivering his workshop, “What's Eating Your Margin? Uncovering Your Hidden Operational Costs.” for brands at the scale stage of their journey. Make sure you drop into his session or say hi to him in the Festival Fairground!LINKS & RESOURCES:Supply’d websiteLaManna InstagramPistachio Papi InstagramPatrick LaManna LinkedInJason Stockton LinkedInEpisode #134 Industry Insights from Foodpreneurs Festival 2025Your Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailYou're on shelf. Now what?In this episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I chat with Sonia Martinez, a retail expert from AUR Foodworks who works with both retailers and brands to improve in-store ranging, product positioning, and merchandising.Sonia is clear: retailers provide real estate, they won't do the selling for you. And if your product isn't moving, you're at risk of getting delisted.Grab your pen and paper and take notes. If you're driving for velocity, tune in to hear:🛒 The one thing brands in Whole Foods did every week for six months that kept them on shelf📸 What to photograph in-store that reveals exactly where your opportunity is🤝 The partnership tool that makes retailers less risk-averse about keeping your product🍯 When to propose "off-location" displays (and what that actually means)📦 Why repositioning your product in a different category could save it from delisting🚫 The biggest mistake founders make once they're on shelfSonia shares what separates brands who stay on shelf from those who get delisted and why every stockist should be treated like an active campaign, not a done deal.This is the eighth and final episode of Season 15 - Marketing Season. If your product isn't moving the way you hoped, this conversation gives you the playbook to turn it around.Season 15 is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival, a year's worth of sales and promotion opportunities under one roof. Sonia will be there on the Buyer Tasting Panel and delivering workshops for start-ups and scaling brands. Say hi to her!LINKS & RESOURCES:Sonia’s LinkedIn Your Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailYour product is great. People love it. But you're still struggling to sell it.Sound familiar?In episode 148 of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast, I chat with Jayne Gallagher, CEO and co-founder of Honey & Fox, a marketing consultancy that helps good food brands turn provenance into sales.Jayne and her business partner Helen work specifically with food and drink businesses to cut through the marketing overwhelm and create systems that actually drive revenue - without needing a four-year marketing degree to do it.Tune in to hear Jayne share her provenance-powered marketing system: 📖 The five elements that create compelling brand stories🤝 Why over 60% of consumers don't trust what they see, hear, or read🦀 A case study about a Queensland crab fishing business that saved tens of thousands in packaging costs by getting their brand strategy right before pressing go🎯 Why most food brands start in the wrong place with social media💰 How to set a realistic marketing budget✅ The three things every buyer wantsJayne breaks down why marketing isn't just social media, why proof is now one of your most precious commodities, and how to avoid the overwhelm of 50-100 conflicting pieces of marketing advice by following a simple system designed specifically for food and drink.This episode is part of Season 15 - marketing season and is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival - a year's worth of sales and promotion opportunities under one roof.  Honey & Fox will be hosting a 'Brand Story Studio' at the Festival in May, 2026.LINKS & RESOURCES:Honey & Fox websiteProvenance Powered MarketingFood Marketing AcademyFraser Isle Spanner [email protected]@honeyandfox.com.au'Brand Story Studio' at Foodpreneurs FestivalEdelman Trust BarometerYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailHow do you build a beverage brand when the margins are slim and you have no outside funding and growth depends on you?You make sales your North Star. Every single day.In this episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I chat with Ollie Puddick, founder of Innerbloom, a functional beverage brand that's gone from farmers' markets to over 300 retail doors across Australia and New Zealand in just a few years.Ollie quit his job as a professional firefighter at the end of last year to go all-in on Innerbloom. No safety net. No investors. Just relentless focus on the one thing that keeps the lights on: sales.And he's brutally honest about the mistakes he made along the way.You'll hear:💰 The one word Ollie writes at the top of his weekly plan every Monday (and why it changes everything)📈 Why Ollie believes he can hit $1 million in online revenue in 12 months - and how online sales solved a cashflow crisis that retail created🍫 The difficult decision he's making about SKUs right now (hint: less is more)🏪 How Ollie lost retail stockists without even knowing it - and what he learned about chasing doors vs. servicing accounts🛒 The meeting filter that keeps him focused on what actually drives sales📦 How he's built a team without hiring full-time staff (and why this works for a lean beverage business)🎯 What a $10K trip taught him about being laser-focused on the right goalsOllie is proof that you don't need a big team, outside funding, or perfect timing to build a successful food or beverage brand. If you're bootstrapping, wearing all the hats, and trying to figure out where to focus your limited time and money - this conversation will give you clarity.Season 15 is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival - a year's worth of sales and promotion opportunities under one roof.LINKS & RESOURCES:Inner Bloom CoffeeInner Bloom Coffee on InstagramYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailYour product is great but is your packaging selling it when you're not there? Packaging is your silent salesperson so you need to make it work.In this episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I chat with Gwen Blake, founding director of Boxer & Co, a packaging design agency specialising in fast moving consumer goods.Here's the reality: we make 95% of our decisions by instinct. Colour, shape, and typography trigger autopilot purchases - green signals healthy and handwritten fonts signal crafted and your packaging has three seconds to trigger the right instinct - or your product stays on the shelf.In this episode, you'll hear:📦 Why packaging is a decision-making tool, not just pretty pictures🧠 The biggest myth founders hold onto (it has to do with the front of your pack)🌿 If you’re a health brand, what you must ditch to get cut-through with consumers✅ What to include in your brief to designers (and what restrictions kill creativity)Gwen breaks down how to make packaging work within retail realities.This episode is for brand owners who struggle to translate product quality into packaging that drives sales.Season 15 is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival - a year's worth of sales and promotion opportunities under one roof.LINKS & RESOURCES:Boxer & CoGwen Blake on LinkedInBoxer & Co on InstagramNimbusDilectioCoco and LucasGrove JuiceYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailYou've got a great product. You're posting on social media. But are you actually building a community - or just racking up likes?In this episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I chat with Sandra and Jordana from Six-Eyed Scorpion, the award-winning crispy chili oil brand that's absolutely nailing brand building in a crowded condiment category.Sandra is a chef by trade and founder. Jordana is the head of marketing and brand (and a graphic designer). Together, they've built a premium brand that stands out in a sea of red, bold competitors by going blue, sophisticated, and unapologetically fun.You'll hear:🌶️ How they used a competitive matrix to find the gap in a saturated chili oil market - and why they chose blue branding in a category dominated by red🤝 What community actually means beyond the buzzword (hint: it's not just posting "thank you" on Instagram)🎨 Their approach to brand collaborations - from pitching Baker Blue to landing Broadsheet coverage📧 Why people actually reply to their email campaigns and Instagram comments (and what happens when brands just "like" comments instead)🏆 How having awards, like a BiteBack Award, makes such a differenceSandra and Jordana break down their philosophy: it's a crime to be boring. They show up at events face-to-face, they share behind-the-scenes content people actually want to watch, and they approach collaborations with ideas (not just asks).This episode is for brand owners who know their product is good but struggle to build the kind of community and brand affinity that drives repeat purchases and word-of-mouth referrals.Season 15 is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival - a year's worth of sales and promotion opportunities under one roof.LINKS & RESOURCES:Six Eyed Scorpion WebsiteSix Eyed Scorpion on InstagramHill MartinDelbociaBaker BleuSandra Seah on LinkedIn#131 From Kitchen to Retail: How Six-Eyed Scorpion Crispy Chilli Oil is Winning Shelf Space Foodpreneurs Festival Biteback AwardsYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailHow do you really know if your packaging works? If your campaign will land? If your new flavour will sell?You ask the people who matter most - your customers. Fast.In this episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I chat with Anna Henwood, CEO of Stickybeak, a rapid consumer testing platform that delivers feedback from your target audience within 48 hours.Anna reveals her frameworks for marketing effectiveness that help you get more product into more consumer baskets. We dig into the everyday decisions that often leave brand owners stuck at a fork in the road - campaign creative, pack design, claims, naming, flavours - the ones where a wrong move can be costly, but intel is hard to access quickly.You'll hear Anna's three game-changing frameworks and:📦 Why packaging is your silent salesperson (and your brand billboard) - and how to balance sell and brand without smashing it all on the front📊 When to trust your gut and when to test it with real consumer feedback💰 How smart foodpreneurs use accessible, affordable data to avoid expensive mistakes🎯 Why what you think matters isn't always what your target market cares about (even if you have the same gluten intolerance)🛒 How to make decisions that move product off the shelf and into baskets in cluttered retail environmentsThis episode is for foodpreneurs who are tired of second-guessing their marketing decisions and want to move forward with confidence, backed by real consumer insight that doesn't break the bank or take months to gather.Season 15 is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival - a year's worth of sales and promotion opportunities under one roof.LINKS & RESOURCES:Anna Henwood on LinkedIn Stickybeak Research Stickybeak WebsiteGraze Churn Foods Your Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderBiteBack AwardsChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailBuilding one successful food brand is hard enough. But what if you could leverage your existing production to create multiple brands that serve different markets and price points?In this episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I chat with sisters and co-founders Michelle Blyth and Justine Curtis from Cremorne Street Bakers, Balmain Baking Co., and cookï. Over eight years, they've built a wholesale baking business that now operates across three distinct brands - each serving different customers, channels, and price points.Their retail journey escalated when Coles Local called them out of the blue after a category manager's mum spotted their products in Melbourne cafes. They had no retail presence, no barcodes, and no retail ready packaging - but they said yes and figured it out.Today, their business spans foodservice (including Starbucks), Coles Local, independent retail, petrol & convenience, and direct-to-consumer.Listen today and learn: 🍪 Why they created three brands instead of stretching one and how each serves a different market segment.🍪 The "diffusion brand" strategy: using the same base dough to create premium, mid-tier, and convenience products.🍪 How to inflation-proof your business by diversifying revenue streams while leveraging existing production.🍪 How to make an unforgettable trade show stand.🍪 The seasonal reality of wholesale baking, and how to manage when you make most of your money in a short time of the year.🍪 Why their first salesperson after 8 years was a game-changerThis episode is for brand owners who've built strong foundations and are ready to think strategically about scaling - not just adding more SKUs, but creating multiple revenue streams that work together.Season 15 is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival - a year's worth of sales and promotion opportunities under one roof.LINKS & RESOURCES:Cremorne Street Bakers Website Cremorne Street Bakers on InstagramBalmain Baking on InstagramFunction 8Your Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailYou've got a great product, decent packaging, and maybe even a few stockists. But here's the problem: your product isn't moving off the shelf. You're spending all your energy chasing new listings while your existing stockists are losing confidence. This is the wake-up call you need.In this episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I'm breaking down why so many CPG brands focus on the wrong metric.I share real examples from brands that are crushing it. You'll hear about brands like Bippi Chili moving 30-40 units per week, Ammazza Pizza doing 2,000 units in a single week, and Mingle Seasoning achieving a 350% sales uplift for three months after one collaboration.These results aren't accidents. They're the outcome of strategic marketing at every stage of the funnel.Listen today and walk away knowing: 📈 How to improve your sales velocity.📈 The marketing funnel explained and what to do at each stage.📈 How to create demand signal before you even pitch to buyers (so they're already warm when you walk in).📈 Real tactics from successful brands.This episode is for brand owners who understand that getting on shelf is just the beginning. The ones who know that staying there depends on how good their marketing is.Season 15 is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival, a year's worth of sales and promotion opportunities under one roof.LINKS & RESOURCES:ZuumGymbod GoodlesTahinineriBippi FoodsMingle SeasoningAmmazza Biteback AwardsBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailScaling up from the bench top to commercial manufacturing is one of the biggest turning points for food, drink, and pet food brands. It’s exciting but it comes with challenges too: ingredient integrity, process changes, minimum order quantities, and the founder’s mindset all play a role in whether scaling feels like a breakthrough or a breakdown.In Episode 141, I’m joined by Naishad Dalal of Food Entrepreneurship Academy, who has worked with countless startups and established brands to take them from idea through to commercial launch. We unpack:🌶️ The common misconceptions about scaling up to manufacturing at scale.🦀 How to navigate trade-offs between artisanal quality and operational reality.☺️ Real-world stories of founders who’ve made tough but smart compromises.🧠 Why founder mindset and consumer communication are crucial to success.Whether you’re just starting to think about scaling or you’re already managing commercial runs, this conversation will give you practical insights - and a dose of hope - that growth is possible without losing a product’s soul.This Season of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is brought to you by Chelsea Ford Co.’s tenth anniversary. Ten years in, I’m more committed than ever. The next decade is wide open for those ready to do things differently and back themselves to grow.LINKS & RESOURCES:Food Entrepreneurship Academy websiteFood Entrepreneurship Academy LinkedIn Company LinkedIn PageNaishad Dalal LinkedIn Page#134 Industry Insights from Foodpreneurs Festival 2025#128 Burnt Out & Broke: How to Afford a Co-Manufacturer#107 How to Develop a Commercially Viable Food or Drink Product.HydraCelt from Overtime Labs Your Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailOrders arriving by text at midnight. Quantities scribbled on receipts. Spreadsheets that don’t match the coolroom. The result? Wasted product, missed shelves, and supply chaos retailers simply won’t tolerate.In Episode 140 of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I speak with Philip Fierlinger, co-founder of Upstock (and one of the brains behind Xero), about why running a modern food business on scraps of paper isn’t just inefficient - it’s a systemic roadblock costing brand owners money, credibility, and growth.If scaling matters to you, this episode is a must-listen.This Season of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is brought to you by Chelsea Ford Co.’s tenth anniversary. Ten years in, I’m more committed than ever. The next decade is wide open for those ready to do things differently and back themselves to grow.LINKS & RESOURCES:Upstock websiteScale your FMCG brand on UpstockPhilip Fierlinger LinkedInEatKindaCoaching Claire MacDonald, Episode #43 What to do When a Stockist Says ‘No’ or ‘No for Now’Your Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailYou think you know what your customer wants… but do you really?Turns out, most of us get it wrong.In Episode 139 of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast, I’m joined by Angela Beswick from Stickybeak - the rapid consumer testing platform - and Bonnie Slade, founder of NaturKidz, whose last-minute product testing changed the trajectory of her pitch to a major retailer.This one’s a must-listen if you’re launching a new product, updating your packaging, or prepping for a retailer meeting that needs to go right.Why you’ll love this episode:💡 Discover why your own preferences can be your biggest blind spot - and how to avoid being fooled by unconscious bias.💡 Learn the packaging tweak that helped Bonnie confidently leave the skin on the feijoa (and why her customers are glad she did).💡 Why “test early and test often” is smarter (and faster) than perfecting it all at the end.💡 How Stickybeak’s quick turnaround gives you real-time data that can validate your ideas or help you pivot - even at the last minute.This episode proves you don’t have to go with your gut or guess anymore. You can know. And that makes all the difference.This Season of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is brought to you by Chelsea Ford Co.’s tenth anniversary. Ten years in, I’m more committed than ever. The next decade is wide open for those ready to do things differently and back themselves to grow.LINKS & RESOURCES:Stickybeak websiteStickybeak Range Review GuideNaturKidz websiteNaturKidz InstagramYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailIt’s the milestone every brand owner chases - landing that major retail listing. But without solid systems in place, supply chain slip-ups, inventory miscalculations, and cash flow gaps can turn that win into a serious setback.If you’ve just landed your first big retail order - or you’re gearing up to expand nationally without running out of stock (or cash) - this episode could save you time, money, and sleepless nights. I’m joined by Cameron Aboud and Joel Alderden from sc3sixty, a fractional supply chain company helping emerging food and drink brands scale sustainably. We discuss:📦 The strategic moves to make right after your first big order.                                  📦 The biggest cash flow traps and stock mistakes that quietly kill growth.📦 How to master inventory planning using the “Goldilocks” principle of not too much, not too little.📦 What DIFOT means, why it’s non-negotiable, and how poor supply performance opens the door for your competition.📦 Why ‘fractional’ supply chain support is smart business for brands that can’t afford full-time experts but want full-time results.If you’ve been winging it with stock, crossing your fingers with cash flow, or you’re about to take a leap from local to national retail, this episode will give you the insights to scaling with longevity.This Season of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is brought to you by Chelsea Ford Co.’s tenth anniversary. Ten years in, I’m more committed than ever. The next decade is wide open for those ready to do things differently and back themselves to grow.LINKS & RESOURCES:sc3sixty websiteCameron Aboud’s LinkedIn profileJoel Alderden LinkedIn profileJoost Bekker LinkedIn profile#132 Plant-Based Milk, Powered by Data: How Drink Nimbus is Disrupting the Industry & Tackling Waste#136 The Hidden Costs Eating Your ProfitYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailBrand owners could literally be leaving thousands of dollars on the table simply because they don’t realise they’re eligible for funding. If you're making, baking or creating - and not claiming the R&D tax incentive - then this is the episode that will help put money back in your pocket.In this episode of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast, I’m joined by Anthony Chi from Bluerock Consulting. Anthony is a rare breed who’s both a lawyer and an accountant. He’s worked with countless food and drink businesses and knows exactly what it takes to get tax incentives for packaged  food, drink or pet food businesses. We talk about:💸 What you can and can’t claim under the R&D tax incentive.💸 The right time to call in an expert (and how to make that conversation count).💸 Exactly what you need to know when claiming grants for your business.I also put Anthony on the spot about the big retailers. His take? Not to be missed.If you've been avoiding grants because they sound too hard, or you've convinced yourself your business isn’t eligible, this episode will shift your mindset,  and might just put more money in your pocket.This Season of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is brought to you by Chelsea Ford Co.’s tenth anniversary. Ten years in, I’m more committed than ever. The next decade is wide open for those ready to do things differently and back themselves to grow.LINKS & RESOURCES:Bluerock websiteAnthony Chi LinkedInYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailMany brand owners think the only way to grow is to do more. More products, more orders, more late nights. But being busy and trying to do it all yourself to save money doesn’t mean you’re building a smarter business.In this episode of the Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast, I’m joined by two brilliant minds who know how to scale without the chaos - Jason Stockton, founder of the ERP system Supply’d, and Ross Galettis from Madhouse Bakehouse, who’s supplying Qantas (and hundreds more) with mouth-watering baked goods.In this episode, we lift the lid on:📈The hidden costs eating your profit (and how to spot them).📈How to stop working in silos and get every department talking.📈How to produce more, without additional costs.📈The real reason saying “I’m too busy” is killing your margins.📈The tech most brand owners underestimate – and the 3-4x ROI they’re missing.If you’re drowning in the day-to-day, but serious about scaling, this episode is filled with tactical help for brand owners who are in the weeds and don't know where to start.This Season of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is brought to you by Chelsea Ford Co.’s tenth anniversary. Ten years in, I’m more committed than ever. The next decade is wide open for those ready to do things differently and back themselves to grow.LINKS & RESOURCES:Supply’d websiteSupply’d free toolsJason Stockton’s LinkedIn profileMadhouse Bakehouse websiteMadhouse Bakehouse InstagramRoss Galettis LinkedIn profileEpisode #134 Industry Insights from Foodpreneurs Festival 2025Your Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. websiteSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailScaling or just staying busy?Too many brand owners are growing, and keeping busy. But don't confuse that with scaling. More stockists, more sales… and a whole lot more stress. Margins stay razor-thin, costs creep up, and burnout isn’t far behind. So this podcast season, I’m calling time on the chaos - because it is possible to scale without losing sleep or profits - using systems, strategy and structure.In this solo episode, I’m breaking down:🔑 The real difference between growth and scale.🔑 Why scaling isn’t sexy - but it's sustainable.🔑 My 8-part Function 8 framework to fix your foundation and grow profitably.🔑 How to stop building a job… and start building a business.This Season of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is brought to you by Chelsea Ford Co.’s tenth anniversary. Ten years in, I’m more committed than ever. The next decade is wide open for those ready to do things differently and back themselves to grow.LINKS & RESOURCES:Function 8 Chelsea Ford website Foodpreneurs Festival website Become A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailDidn’t make it to Foodpreneurs Festival 2025? Or maybe you were there but want a refresher on all the high-impact opportunities presented at the event, and the practical steps to take now to leverage your learnings and industry connections?In this episode, I sat down with Naishad Dalal, food scientist, entrepreneur, and founder of the Food Entrepreneurship Academy, and Jason Stockton, operations expert and founder of Supply’d, the ERP system built just for Foodpreneurs.Together, we unpack exactly what went down at Foodpreneurs Festival 2025 - from the brands to watch, to the big questions buyers were asking, to the tools and systems fast-growing brands are using to stay lean and scale smart.Tune in to learn:🍏 What retailers were at the Festival and what they were looking for (make note of tips for next year!).🍏 The standout brands from the Festival that are gaining serious traction.🍏 How to scale without blowing your budget.🍏 Margin management: what "healthy" really looks like in today’s climate.🍏 What your pathway to profit should look like.🍏 How to use automation to help you grow.Whether you missed the Festival or just want to make sure you caught every juicy insight, this episode is your post-Festival debrief and action plan.Listen now to hear how the Festival cracked open growth strategies that work, and what to do next to stay ahead.LINKS & RESOURCES:Grounded Wholefoods websiteLady Alchemy websiteQuickie Cookies websiteCoast n Smoke websiteSUP Foods websiteSupply’d websiteJason Stockton’s LinkedInFood Entrepreneurship Academy websiteFood Entrepreneurship Academy LinkedInNaishad Dalal’s LinkedInYour Free Pitch PlanBecome a Chelsea Ford InsiderSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailScaling a frozen food brand? It’s not for the faint-hearted. Cold chain logistics, merchandising nightmares, and razor-thin margins make it one of the most challenging categories in the game.But Mrinali Kumar, CEO and co-founder of EatKinda, is flipping the script - proving that bold innovation, sustainability, and smart operations can carve out a winning edge.In this episode, Mrinali reveals how EatKinda - the world’s first cauliflower-based ice cream - went from a small-town pitch comp in New Zealand to over 120 retail listings, and garnering international buzz, for its mission to reduce food and plastic waste.And now? They’re exiting NZ (for now!) to go all to focus on the US market.Tune in to learn: 🍦 How cauliflower creates that ultra-creamy, dairy-like texture.🍦 What frozen distribution really costs, and how they lifted margins from 17% to 40%.🍦 How smart use of foodservice data landed them on retail shelves.🍦 The merchandising missteps that almost cost them big.🍦 Why the US is their next frontier - and how they’re making the leap.If you’re building a food or drink brand and want to scale sustainably and profitably, this episode is your playbook.👉 Listen now to hear what it really takes to build a disruptive CPG brand that lasts.This Season of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival - a year’s worth of sales and promotion opportunities under one roof - and Chelsea Ford Co., modernising the CPG industry, one emerging brand at a time.LINKS & RESOURCES:Eat Kinda websiteEat Kinda overseasYour Free Pitch PlanGet Your Foodpreneurs Festival Ticket NowBecome a Chelsea Ford InsiderSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailAlexandra Bekker, founder of Drink Nimbus, is on a mission to shake up plant-based milk and the sustainability issues that come with it. After a highly successful eCommerce career, she discovered the shocking truth: 138 billion long-life cartons end up in landfill each year. So, she set out to create a better alternative.In this episode, Alexandra shares how she:🌱 Validated her oat milk powder concept through surveys and kitchen trials🛠 Navigated supplier relationships and big MOQs to get production off the ground📈 Built a scalable operational setup that’s taken Drink Nimbus into 100+ stores and countless homes💰 Manages unit economics, cash flow, and digital ad spend with precision🛍️ Avoided the Black Friday discount trap and turned it into a profit winAlexandra’s eCommerce expertise and data-driven mindset make this a must-listen for food and drink brand owners looking to scale profitably.This Season of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival - a year’s worth of sales and promotion opportunities under one roof - and Chelsea Ford Co., modernising the CPG industry, one emerging brand at a time.LINKS & RESOURCES:Drink Nimbus websiteYour Free Pitch PlanGet Your Foodpreneurs Festival Ticket NowBecome a Chelsea Ford InsiderSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailSandra Seah, founder of Six-Eyed Scorpion, has built a premium, seriously flavourful crispy chilli oil brand that’s shaking up the condiment aisle. Voted #1 chilli oil by Gourmet Traveller, her range blends bold Singaporean flavours with top-tier Australian ingredients - and retailers are taking notice.For episode 131, fresh off landing in Harris Farm Markets, I spoke to Sandra about how she’s scaling smartly, ensuring profitability while keeping quality at the forefront. In this episode, we dive into:🔥 The strategic shifts that helped Six-Eyed Scorpion secure retail shelf space🔥 How Sandra balances handcrafted quality with demand planning and distributor relationships🔥 The financial levers she pulls to keep her margins strong and cash flow steady🔥 The power of brand-building - and why she’s prioritising it over launching new products🔥 The logistics and supplier strategies that keep her operation running smoothlyIf you’re an emerging brand looking to level up your retail game, Sandra’s insights will help you make smarter, more strategic moves.This Season of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival - a year’s worth of sales and promotion opportunities under one roof - and Chelsea Ford Co., modernising the CPG industry, one emerging brand at a time.LINKS & RESOURCES:Six-Eyed Scorpion websiteSix-Eyed Scorpion at Harris Farm MarketsYour Free Pitch PlanGet Your Foodpreneurs Festival Ticket NowBecome a Chelsea Ford InsiderSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailBurnout is a real challenge in the industry. Many Foodpreneurs start their businesses as a side hustle - juggling production, marketing, sales, packing, and every other task that comes with running a business solo.But it doesn’t have to stand in the way of scaling.For episode 130, I sat down with Laura Allan, founder of Isaac’s Snacks, the wholefood bites brand keeping it real with fewer than 10 ingredients. With 900+ Woolworths stores stocking her products and a strong presence in independents, Laura has built what so many Foodpreneurs dream of. But it hasn’t been easy.Scaling isn’t just about getting more products on more shelves. It’s about navigating MOQs, cashflow pressures, and the hidden costs of retail that no one warns you about. And for Laura, it also meant hitting a breaking point - stuck in the relentless cycle of doing everything herself, until burnout forced her to rethink how she was running the business.In this episode, we unpack:🧇 The real cost of outsourcing to a co-manufacturer, why it’s necessary, but not without its challenges.🧇 How she tackled the financial strain of meeting retailer expectations - because it’s not just about getting on the shelf, it’s about staying there.🧇 The trial-and-error approach to finding the right people so she could focus on growth, not late-night admin.🧇 Why relationships (not just branding) have been the key to her success, and how she’s leveraged partnerships to push through every challenge.🧇 The evolving P&L and cashflow forecast that keeps her in control - because running a food business without a financial strategy is a recipe for disaster.This Season of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is brought to you by Foodpreneurs Festival - a year’s worth of sales and promotion opportunities under one roof - and Chelsea Ford Co., modernising the CPG industry, one emerging brand at a time.LINKS & RESOURCES:Isaac's Snacks websiteYour Free Pitch PlanGet Your Foodpreneurs Festival Ticket NowBecome a Chelsea Ford InsiderSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailYou’ve got the vision - but do you have the supply chain to scale it?For episode 129, I sat down with Stefan Di Benedetto, founder of Solbevi, the limoncello spritz brand shaking up the drinks industry across Australia and New Zealand. His goal? Nothing short of global domination.But here’s the reality: scaling a challenger brand isn’t just about a great product, it’s about making smart manufacturing and distribution moves, fast.Stefan’s story is one of relentless ambition, resilience, and strategy. He went from a side hustle in construction to outselling Aperol in key venues, securing Dan Murphy’s, and landing a major NZ retail deal with Super Liquor.But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing, and in this episode, he opens up about:🍋 Why he believes limoncello has the same global potential as Aperol - and how he’s positioning Solbevi to own the ‘yellow bottle’ space.🍋 The unexpected production challenges that came with moving manufacturing  to NZ - and what he’s learned from shuffling stock across warehouses to keep up with demand.🍋 How he got stocked in Australia’s biggest liquor retailers (hint: persistence and standout packaging go a long way).🍋 The funding realities of the drinks industry, why he was naïve going in, and what he’s doing differently now to secure investment for expansion.And just before we recorded? He got hit with a massive setback - one that’s going to cost him big. But this ‘drinkpreneur’ who says “things happen for a reason,” is making limoncello out of every lemon he gets served!This episode is for every Foodpreneur navigating the highs and lows of scaling. If you’re pushing for something big but feel the weight of every challenge, Stefan’s story will remind you that the biggest brands don’t just happen, they’re built through hard work and determination.LINKS & RESOURCES:Solbevi websiteSolbevi at Dan Murphy’sVintage Sellers websiteSuper Liquor websiteYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderBecome a Chelsea Ford InsiderSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailYou’re burning out – but still not paying yourself a wage. So how do you afford a co-manufacturer without cutting corners?In episode 128 we’re getting real about the biggest challenge many Foodpreneurs face: you’re working non-stop, but your margins aren’t big enough to pay yourself - let alone afford to outsource production.But here’s the thing: sticking with in-house manufacturing might actually be costing you more.That’s why I’m joined by Naishad Dalal, food scientist, entrepreneur, and Founder of the Food Entrepreneurship Academy. Naishad knows everything about scaling food and drink products the smart way, and in this episode, he’s breaking down:📈 How to assess your true production costs, and where you can find margin to pay yourself without switching to lesser-quality ingredients.📈 The negotiation strategies that help Foodpreneurs reduce co-manufacturer MOQs (so you’re not overcommitting to huge runs you can’t afford).📈 How economies of scale actually work, and why ingredient purchasing power could be your secret weapon.📈 What founders get wrong about IP protection (yes, your ingredient list is public, but that doesn’t mean your formulation is up for grabs).📈 Why your attachment to in-house production might be holding you back, and how to shift your mindset to unlock new growth opportunities.We also talk about Doughlicious’ collaboration with PepsiCo and what emerging brands can learn from how they leveraged a co-manufacturer to tap into the hot new ‘swicy’ trend.If you’re hesitant to outsource because you think you’ll lose agility, or you’re worried that co-mans will limit your ability to launch new products quickly, this episode will challenge your thinking.Missed Naishad’s first episode? Check out Episode 107 for the foundations on developing a commercially viable food or drink product. Season 13 is all about systemising your supply chain, so you can grow without grinding yourself into the ground. Tune in now and take the next step towards paying yourself while making more sales and building a stronger brand.LINKS & RESOURCES:Food Entrepreneurship Academy WebsiteYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderBecome a Chelsea Ford InsiderSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailBusiness isn’t always exciting - and that’s exactly the point.In episode 127 of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, we’re kicking off Season 13 with a solo session that dives into a truth many overlook: success isn’t about chasing shiny new strategies. It’s about implementation.Yep, the boring stuff. The routines. The consistency. That’s where growth lives.This episode includes:🚀 Why the ‘boring basics’ are your business’s secret weapon - and how ignoring them is costing you more than you think.🚀 The 90-day sprint method: the simple, repeatable framework Chelsea’s clients use to stay focused, organised, and profitable.🚀 Real stories of Foodpreneurs who mastered consistency and how that ‘boring’ discipline helped them scale to major retailers like Coles and Woolworths.🚀 The uncomfortable truth about success - it’s not about finding the next big thing, but doing the small things, over and over, until they compound into something extraordinary.If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’re spinning your wheels, this episode is for you. Chelsea doesn’t just talk about the what—she gives you the how, with actionable steps to implement immediately.Season 13 is all about operations because that’s where the magic happens (even if it feels mundane).Tune in now to learn how mastering the basics can transform your food business from chaotic to consistent - and profitable!LINKS & RESOURCES:Function 8 Chelsea Ford website Foodpreneurs Festival website Become A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailSpotting a gap in the market often sparks the creation of something truly innovative - and that’s exactly what happened for Tim and Liam from Bae Juice. They saw the need for a reliable hangover solution and turned it into a thriving business. Bae Juice - a Korean pear juice infused with a unique enzyme to tackle hangovers, launched in 2019, has become a go-to remedy, stocked in over 3,500 stores across Australia and now Brooklyn, New York!Their approach is all about smart, intentional growth and in this podcast episode, they share:🍐 The decision that boosted Woolies sales by 9.89%.🍐 How focused pitching and a clear philosophy - "the most accessible hangover prevention drink on the market" - landed them shelves in Dan Murphy’s, Woolies, Coles Liquor, and more.🍐 How they’re scaling strategically - from FDA approvals to expansion into the US market, how they’re building a business primed for global success and aiming for $100M in revenue.🍐 Their exact processes on how they are building their brand across two different markets. Tim and Liam are authentic and open. True brand builders who are playing the long game (and are so far, smashing it!) Their philosophy? Grow slow, stay authentic, and always deliver.Learn how Bae Juice is redefining what it means to scale with intention in this episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, presented by Thrive Collective—the powerhouse behind brands like Welly, GYM BOD, and of course, Bae Juice. Tune in for tips, strategies, and a peek at what it takes to build a category-leading brand!LINKS & RESOURCES:Bae Juice Australian WebsiteBae Juice USA WebsiteWhat Tim & Liam said about working with Thrive CollectiveThrive Collective WebsiteFood Entrepreneurship Academy WebsiteYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailWhen Roz White and her husband Michael started their first White’s IGA store 31 years ago, they weren’t just opening a business; they were planting roots. Fast forward to today, and they’ve grown into a Sunshine Coast icon with six stores, over 520 staff, and deep connections to their local community.Roz’s formula for success? A steadfast commitment to people, relationships, and purpose-led retail. From choosing not to implement self-checkouts—valuing connection over convenience—to building partnerships with 200 local Sunshine Coast suppliers, Roz’s vision has always been about more than just groceries; it’s about community. If you want insights into the mind of a buyer, Roz’s story is packed with practical lessons on creating impact in retail, including:🛒 Purpose before profit – Why staying local and supporting 200+ Sunshine Coast suppliers ensures her stores are truly for the community.🛒 Mastering market shifts – Her insights into changing consumer behaviour, from the growing demand for private labels to shifts in promotional spending.🛒 Stand out by knowing your niche – Why brands need to understand their position in the market and explore innovative ways to differentiate.🛒 Retailtainment at its best – Why making shopping an experience, rather than a transaction, keeps customers coming back.🛒 Building trust – How strong supplier relationships create mutual success and why every brand needs to do their homework.This episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is presented by Thrive Collective, the company helping driving growth for brands like Welly, Bae Juice, and The Kimchi Company. LINKS & RESOURCES:Whites IGA WebsiteLocavores PodcastRoz White LinkedInFood Agri Network (F.A.N.) WebsiteWoombye Cheese WebsiteMaleny Dairies WebsiteCOYO Australia WebsiteThrive Collective WebsiteFood Entrepreneurship Academy WebsiteYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailWhen Jarahad Valeri saw parents struggling to get kids to eat more fruits and veggies, he saw an opportunity. That spark led to Welly — a snack company that turns fruits and veg into kid-friendly, gut-healthy bites that parents can trust. Launching Welly Kids in 2022 and expanding to adults in early 2023, Jarahad set out to bring these health benefits to a wider audience. His formula for success? A powerful mix of internal data, direct consumer conversations, and retailer insights that shaped Welly’s path forward to where they are now - stocked in Coles and Woolies across the country as well as in 250 independent retailers.In this episode, Jarahad reveals the core strategies that have helped Welly grow, including:🍎 Real consumer insights – Why talking directly to parents was his key to understanding what they actually needed from healthy snacks.🥕 Pitching with precision – His winning formula at Foodpreneurs Festival, where he used every second to create a tailored, impactful pitch for buyers.🍎 Growing with intention – Why Welly focuses on specific retail partnerships over widespread distribution, ensuring each location supports steady sales.🥕 Partnering for Success -  How Welly joined forces with this season’s presenting partner, Thrive Consulting, to achieve national distribution of their powders and bites in Coles, Woolworths, and Woolworths Metro.Whether you’re building a brand or planning your next pitch, listen now as Jarahad’s journey offers practical advice for making an impact in retail! This season of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford podcast is presented by Thrive Collective, the growth engine behind brands like Bae Juice, GYM BOD, The Kimchi Company and Welly!LINKS & RESOURCES:Welly WebsiteWelly InstagramWelly Kids InstagramWhat Jarahad says about working with Thrive CollectiveThrive Collective WebsiteFood Entrepreneurship Academy WebsiteYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailMason Bagios didn’t set out to transform Australia’s drinking culture - but that’s exactly what happened when he chose to quit alcohol and embrace cleaner living. This personal journey inspired Kommunity Brew, a brand he co-founded to offer mindful, substance-free options that resonate with a new generation of health-conscious Aussies. From the start, Mason knew that authenticity was key, creating kombuchas, probiotic waters, and botanical shots that were as genuine as his mission.In Episode 123, Mason shares how he turned this vision into reality, touching on:🥤 The importance of the “pub test” to ensure products align with the real reasons people are seeking non-alcoholic options.🥤 How he used storytelling and core values to win over a diverse, health-focused community.🥤 His $50M vision and why he’s focussing on in-store impact over social media.🥤 The role of in-store demos and sampling in breaking down barriers and winning retailer support.Mason also opens up about investor relationships, setting expectations, and celebrating the wins. Don’t miss Episode 123, and if you haven’t already, tune in to our other Brand Season episodes (119–122). Presented by Thrive Collective, the growth engine behind brands like Bae Juice, GYM BOD, and The Kimchi Company.LINKS & RESOURCES:Kommunity BrewMason’s LinkedInCold MatterThrive Collective WebsiteFood Entrepreneurship Academy WebsiteYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailWhat began as her mum’s cherished muesli slice recipe, evolved into Springhill Farm, a brand house helmed by Fiona Whatley, bringing better-for-you, but equally delicious treats like Slice and Boodles to shelves across Australia. Together with her husband, James, Fiona has transformed a family recipe into a business that thrives on bold choices, from securing Woolworths’ support before products were even made, to shifting focus from product to powerful brand storytelling.In Episode 122, Fiona shares her journey on:🍫 Gaining early buy-in from retailers through pre-selling strategies (you’ve got to hear these!).🍫 Why storytelling is the secret sauce behind Springhill Farm’s growth. 🍫 Savvy budgeting lessons and what to prioritise in marketing.🍫 How they created loyal brand advocates through genuine community-building.Get ready for a conversation packed with insights on how tradition and smart risk-taking can fuel brand success.LINKS & RESOURCES:Springhill FarmThrive Collective WebsiteFood Entrepreneurship Academy WebsiteYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailEver felt the frustration of squeezing lemons every day, only to watch the waste pile up? That’s exactly what sparked the creation of Naked Rivals frozen lemon and lime juice. The brand’s co-founders Andrew and Kate Gordon combined a passion for sustainability, with a sharp commercial lens, to build a brand that’s catching waves in retail—and staying on top.In this episode, Andrew reveals the journey behind a product that’s revolutionising kitchens across Australia. From the first squeeze to securing shelf space in Coles and Woolworths, Andrew shares how he and his partner, Kate, knew it was time to “take a swing” and lean into something big.Listen now and walk away with:🍋 The key steps for scaling a consumer brand, from branding to financial modelling and deep consumer research.🍋‍🟩 How to sharpen your value proposition and communicate what makes your brand stand out in a crowded market.🍋 The role of passion and commercial strategy in engaging investors and securing distribution partnerships.🍋‍🟩 Why patience is critical when growing a brand and how it plays into long-term success.Don't miss this insightful episode packed with strategies to take your brand from concept to retail success story.LINKS & RESOURCES:Naked Rivals WebsiteThrive Collective WebsiteFood Entrepreneurship Academy WebsiteYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailGrassroots marketing strategies can propel food, drink, and pet food brands from zero to hero, and this episode is all about actionable, boots-on-the-ground tactics to get you there!Whether you're just getting started or looking to refine your brand's approach, this episode will help you take the next step. I break down three real-life examples of how local, customer-centric efforts turned small unknown brands into household names, including:✨ Fodbods: Their gut-friendly snack bars weren’t just products—they were solutions for those with digestive sensitivities. Discover how connecting directly with health-conscious customers and leveraging influencer marketing, helped them expand.✨ Remedy Drinks: Now a beverage empire, also began at the grassroots. Offering free samples at farmers’ markets and health expos, they started by showing consumers what kombucha was all about. Discover how they didn’t just sell a drink; but a lifestyle rooted in health and sustainability.✨ Lyka Pet Food: Stood out in the crowded pet food market by prioritising transparency. Hear how engaging with customers at local events and online, they built trust with pet owners who valued knowing exactly what went into their furry friends' meals.So, whether you’re a fresh face or a seasoned pro in the industry, tune in now and learn how to take your brand from the kitchen to the national stage.LINKS & RESOURCES:FodBodsRemedy DrinksLyka Pet FoodOobliThrive Collective WebsiteFood Entrepreneurship Academy WebsiteYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailFrom brand identity to building customer loyalty, this week’s episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford is packed with insights for emerging and challenger brand owners. I sit down with Hannah Murphy from Tracksuit and Matt Kowal from Naked Life Group, two experts who have successfully helped brands cut through the noise in today’s crowded market.We dive deep into the power of branding—what it truly means, how it can make or break your business, and why packaged food, drink or pet food owners must focus on more than just their products to thrive. With real-world examples and candid stories, Hannah and Matt break down the strategic thinking that helps brands stay top of mind and competitive, whether they’re launching a new range or scaling up.Tune in to this week’s episode to discover:✨ What makes a brand memorable and successful.✨ The role of emotional connection in brand building.✨ Key strategies to differentiate your brand in the marketplace.✨ The balance between short-term performance marketing and long-term brand equity.✨ How tracking brand performance helps you make smarter decisions.✨ Why your brand matters just as much as your product.✨ Insights into how Naked Life is carving out space in the non-alcoholic drinks market.Ready to elevate your brand? Hit play now! 🎧 LINKS & RESOURCES:Naked Life Non-Alcoholic Spirits WebsiteNaked Life Group WebsiteTracksuit WebsiteThrive Collective WebsiteFood Entrepreneurship Academy WebsiteYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailFor Foodpreneurs the countdown to Q4—the "Golden Quarter"—is officially on with just 16 weeks to go! This is the season with epic sales including Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year periods; unsurprisingly, the time of year when brand owners make the most money.In this episode I cover how to make every week, from now until then, count so that packaged food, drink and pet food founders make the most of it. Listen now to discover: ✅ Exactly what you need to focus on during this period.✅ Why you need to show value to your stockists, and how to do it.✅ How to break down your Q4 goals into manageable steps.✅ Why now is the perfect time to ‘follow up’ with potential opportunities.Remember, busy doesn’t equal effective. It’s about smart strategies that deliver. Listen to Ep. 118 now and finish 2024 strong 💪LINKS & RESOURCES:Your Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailFrom an aspiring entrepreneur to the CEO of Australia’s leading 'better for you' frozen dessert brand, Cass Spies’ journey is a testament to grit and determination. In this week’s episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I sit down with Cass, the powerhouse behind Twisted Healthy Treats.Cass launched her dream business in 2009 after returning from the UK, inspired by Janine Allis’ Boost Juice franchise model. What started as a retail frozen yoghurt shop quickly evolved into a thriving wholesale business, landing Twisted’s treats in 2,500 supermarkets across Australia, 5,000 school canteens, and even Costco in Australia, China, and the US.In this episode, Cass opens up about the highs and lows of running her own manufacturing facility, the importance of lean manufacturing, and how she’s built a brand that's both innovative and sustainable.Tune in to this week’s episode to discover:🍦Cass’s scaling journey and how she priorities what’s important.🍦Navigating the challenges of owning a manufacturing facility.🍦The balance between innovation and cashflow.🍦Key pointers on what Cass would do differently if she started today (take note!)🍦What it takes to land your product in thousands of stores and school canteens.🍦 The power of a focused go-to-market strategy.It’s an inspiring conversation filled with practical insights for anyone looking to scale their food business. Don’t miss it! And if you’re not already subscribed to my industry newsletter, you’re missing out on tips to land more accounts and get more products in consumers' hands. Grab the link in the show notes.LINKS & RESOURCES:Twisted Healthy TreatsYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailFrom award-winning Executive Chef to consumer packaged goods creator extraordinaire, Shaun Quade’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this week’s episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I chat with the talented Shaun. Shaun and his life and business partner Veronica Fil recently returned to Australia from the US where they scaled a plant-based CPG cheese product called Grounded. Together they landed Grounded in more than 2000 stockists across the US, raised $4M in investment and faced the challenges of an industry dominated by big food companies. In this episode Shaun speaks about doing business in the food industry at scale, including slotting fees, distribution, merchandising and brand building. With Shaun’s love for good food and keen interest in the rapid changes in the food system, he shares insights from his global journey, answering practical questions about scaling a perishable product in this current economic client and what it takes to put more money in your pocket for every product you sell. Tune in to this week’s episode to discover:🧀 Scaling a plant-based CPG product.🧀 Raising investment to enable you to scale.🧀 Transporting a perishable product and what to avoid to maximise your shelf life and margin.🧀 What costs to be aware of when scaling into big retail.🧀 What it will take to build a sustainable speciality food industry.🧀 The challenge of distribution and what things to consider.🧀 Insights into food tech.🧀 How BIG FOOD is impacting the food industry.🧀 The cost of ‘convenience’.LINKS & RESOURCES:Say My Name AgencyEpisode 110 Raising Funds For Your CPG BusinessYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailFrom unlocking funds through grants, and winning awards can both be a game-changer for your business. In this week’s episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I chat with Madonna Melrose, founder of Melrose International, about leveraging grants to fuel your growth.Madonna, a specialist in grant applications, shares how understanding the grant landscape and having a clear future growth plan are key to securing funds. With billions of funding dollars available, and with only 35% of businesses accessing these grants, now is the time to get grant-ready!Listen to discover:💸 Strategies for writing killer grant applications.💸 The intricacies of the grant landscape.💸 How grants can free up cash flow for growth.💸 Peripheral opportunities in tourism, sustainability, and energy renewables.💸 The benefits of applying for awards to boost visibility.Madonna also highlights exciting opportunities like the AgriFood and Beverage Voucher Program WA, and distillery door support programs. LINKS & RESOURCES:Madonna Melrose EmailMadonna Melrose LinkedInMelrose InternationalYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au

Send us Fan MailFrom tech exec to meal kit mogul, Ambika Malvia's journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this week’s episode of Foodpreneur with Chelsea Ford, I chat with the amazing Ambika, co-founder of Spicecraft meal kits. Starting from a humble market stall in Sydney, Ambika and her partner, Vikram, have scaled their business to over 430 retailers across Australia.Ambika’s unique approach to user experience, honed from her background as an electronics engineer, has been the secret sauce to Spicecraft’s success, and she’s sharing her insights in Ep 114: From Market Stall to Major Retailers: Scaling Through a Focus on Experience Excellence.👤 How a focus on user experience can scale your brand.👤 The transition from market stalls to major retailers.👤 Strategies for maintaining quality while expanding.👤 Why to consider user experience at every touchpoint.👤Tips for entering new markets and global expansion.Ambika also shares her exciting plans, including exploring opportunities in the UK market. Don’t miss this episode for invaluable insights into creating and scaling a successful food brand.LINKS & RESOURCES:SpicecraftSpicecraft InstagramYour Free Pitch PlanBecome A Foodpreneurs Festival InsiderChelsea Ford Co. Industry NewsletterSeason 17 with NFTCSeason 17, out now, is brought to you by NFTC – The Natural Foods Trading Company.If you're a growing food brand navigating that tricky middle phase—scaling up, maybe landing your first major retailer, figuring out how to buy smarter—NFTC is worth knowing about.They're a mid-tier ingredient supplier specialising in natural wholefoods: nuts, dried fruits, herbs, spices, seeds, and more. Small enough to offer lower minimums and genuine flexibility, but backed by serious sourcing capability and a team that actually knows its range inside out.Think of them as the ingredient partner that grows with you—not one you'll outgrow.Check them out at nftc.com.au