Summary

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Liz Butts, founder of Sprinkle Pop, about her journey from cake decorating to creating a successful sprinkle business. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the food and beverage industry, the importance of understanding customer needs, current trends in the sprinkle market, and effective marketing strategies. Liz shares insights on regulatory compliance, the significance of delegation in business, and her growth plans for the future.

Takeaways

• Liz Butts transitioned from a finance career to cake decorating.
• She identified a gap in the sprinkle market and launched Sprinkle Pop.
• The business focuses on unique and customizable sprinkle options.
• Natural colors are becoming a trend, but they often lack flavor.
• Marketing strategies have shifted towards Amazon for better customer acquisition.
• Licensing deals with popular brands can expand market reach.
• Seasonal flavors and colors drive sales throughout the year.
• Regulatory compliance is crucial for scaling a food business.
• Delegation is essential for business growth and efficiency.
• Finding the right people is key to overcoming operational challenges.

Summary

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Michael Dean from Cali Sober about the emerging market of THC-infused beverages. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the beverage industry, particularly focusing on the rise of alternative drinks among younger consumers. Dean shares insights on building a brand, navigating regulations, and the importance of effective marketing strategies. The conversation also touches on funding strategies and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the beverage space.

Takeaways

• The THC beverage market is rapidly evolving and expanding.
• Cali Sober targets a younger demographic seeking alternatives to alcohol.
• Building a beverage brand requires significant investment and strategic planning.
• Understanding state regulations is crucial for success in the THC market.
• Effective marketing strategies are essential for brand visibility and growth.
• Networking within the beverage community can provide valuable support and insights.
• Cash flow management is critical for sustaining business operations.
• Identifying and targeting specific consumer demographics can enhance brand loyalty.
• Investing in strong branding is vital for standing out in a competitive market.
• Learning from mistakes is part of the entrepreneurial journey.

Summary

In this episode of MarketPlate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Scott O'Malley from clr!ty, a THC beverage company. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the THC beverage market, including product lines, dosage, market trends, consumer education, and the impact of legislation and insurance on the industry. Scott shares insights on the evolution of the market, the importance of educating consumers, and the future of THC beverages as they expand into new states and product offerings.

Takeaways

• Scott O'Malley has diverse business experience, including in THC beverages.
• Clarity offers a range of THC-infused beverages, including seltzers and cold brews.
• The THC beverage market is rapidly evolving with increasing consumer interest.
• Education is crucial for consumers unfamiliar with THC products.
• Insurance issues pose challenges for bars and restaurants selling THC beverages.
• The market is seeing a mix of older and younger consumers.
• Scott predicts a $28 billion industry for THC beverages in the coming years.
• Legislation varies by state, impacting product availability and marketing.
• Clarity is expanding its product lines and entering new states.
• Hemp-derived THC offers legal advantages over marijuana-derived products.

Summary

In this episode of Market Plate, Michael Wangbickler speaks with Bobby Barton about the evolving landscape of the beverage industry, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for emerging brands. Bobby shares insights on building RPC Brands, the importance of consumer connection, and the need for consultative selling in a competitive market. They discuss trends in wine and spirits, including the rise of rum and the impact of health and wellness on consumer choices.

Takeaways

• RPC Brands was created to support small to mid-sized beverage brands.
• Building a sales team around a few products can be challenging.
• Consumer connection is essential for brand success.
• Consultative selling helps identify and solve customer problems.
• The wine category has seen a decline in recent years.
• Emerging brands need to focus on storytelling and engagement.
• Distribution challenges require innovative solutions.
• Secondary markets offer untapped opportunities for growth.
• Health and wellness trends are influencing consumer choices.
• Rum is poised for a renaissance in the spirits market.

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

In this episode, Michael Wangbickler interviews Chad Copher, the general manager of Heringer Estates, a family-run winery in Clarksburg, California. They discuss Chad's journey into the wine industry, the history and operations of Heringer Estates, and the challenges the wine market is currently facing. The conversation also explores strategies for attracting younger generations of wine drinkers, the importance of creating memorable experiences, and innovative event strategies to drive growth. Chad shares insights on current trends in wine consumption and production, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and authenticity in the industry.

Takeaways

• Chad Copher transitioned from retail to the wine industry.
• Heringer Estates has a rich history dating back to 1868.
• The winery produces a variety of wines and also sells grapes to other wineries.
• Building long-term relationships is crucial in the wine business.
• The wine industry is currently facing challenges in grape sales and market demand.
• Attracting younger generations requires a shift in marketing and experience.
• The experience economy is becoming more important in the wine industry.
• Innovative events can help wineries engage with customers and drive sales.
• Sweet wines and approachable varieties are gaining popularity among new wine drinkers.
• Sustainability and authenticity are key values for attracting the next generation.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Alex Sarnow from Spruce Confections about the challenges and opportunities in the baked goods industry. They discuss the company's growth plans, market trends, specialty baked goods, and the challenges faced by the industry, including staffing and pricing. Alex shares insights on building relationships in the wholesale market and the importance of marketing strategies. The conversation concludes with Alex's favorite product and thoughts on the future of Spruce Confections.

Takeaways

• Spruce Confections has been around since 1992, starting from a home kitchen.
• The company has four retail locations and two commercial bakeries.
• Growth plans for 2025 focus on expanding wholesale and local business.
• There is a demand for specialty baked goods like gluten-free and vegan options.
• Pricing of ingredients like butter and eggs has significantly increased.
• Consumers are willing to spend more for quality baked goods.
• Building relationships with coffee shops is crucial for success.
• Staffing challenges are a common issue in the baking industry.
• Marketing strategies are evolving as the company grows.
• Alex's favorite product is a gluten-free breakfast bun that tastes like an English muffin.

In this episode of Market Plate, host Michael Wangbickler speaks with Pete Ferrari, the founder of Healthy for Life Foods, about his entrepreneurial journey and the introduction of Jaka sugar, a healthier alternative to traditional sugar. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the food industry, the importance of consumer education, and the company's commitment to social responsibility through initiatives aimed at combating nutritional inequality. Ferrari shares insights on market trends, consumer behavior, and the need for transparency and trust in the food industry.

Takeaways

• Pete Ferrari has built five companies across different industries over 35 years.
• Jaka sugar offers metabolic benefits and tastes like traditional sugar.
• The food industry is seeing a shift towards healthier alternatives.
• Consumer awareness and education are crucial for market success.
• 75% of Americans are trying to reduce sugar intake but still prefer its taste.
• The internet has changed how consumers research and purchase food products.
• Trust in big corporations is declining among consumers.
• Healthy for Life Foods aims to combat nutritional inequality.
• The company is a certified pending B corporation, emphasizing ethics and purpose.
• Future goals include expanding product offerings and health initiatives.