The Startup CPG Podcast Startup CPG

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to hummingbirds.com/startupCPGThis episode was sponsored by Cin7. Go to cin7.com/startupcpgThis episode was sponsored by Grassroots Marketing. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call)
Join Grace Kennedy in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast as she is joined by Jake Deleon, the founder and CEO of Fila Manila and Alex Sorenson, the Founder and CEO of Blank Slate Kitchen to delve into the complexities of UPC (Universal Product Code) code management. Discover the pivotal decisions behind altering UPC codes, influenced by factors such as pricing strategy, market competitiveness, and cost efficiency. 

Hear firsthand accounts of how Jake and Alex approached UPC modifications to meet distribution demands and navigate retailer approvals. From adjusting net weight to strategic inventory planning, learn the intricacies of UPC management and the importance of sales forecasting in ensuring smooth transitions. Gain invaluable advice from founders on starting small to gather consumer feedback, assessing velocity metrics for store performance, and engaging effectively with distributors and retailers.

Plus, explore how adapting product sizes can positively impact buyer behavior and discover proactive measures like promotions and discounts to manage UPC changes effectively. 

Don't miss out on the latest strategies for success in the CPG industry - Tune in now!

Listen in as Jake and Alex share about:
Cost Consideration of Changing UPC CodesChallenges of Not Changing UPC CodesAmazon ComplicationsUpdating Product Records and GS1 Data HubManaging Changeovers and Mitigating RisksRefills and Negotiations with RetailersAdvice for FoundersProduct Promotion and SalesBrand Promotion
Episode Links:
Blank Slate Kitchen Website
Alex Sorenson’s LinkedIn
Fila Manila Website
Jake Deleon LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.
Show Links:
Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics
Cin7 Links:
Get a free month trial and then 50% off your first 3 months. Check out cin7.com/startupcpgHummingbirds Links:
Find case studies, content + an exclusive chance to win a FREE custom managed campaign. Visit Hummingbirds.com/startupCPGGrassroots Links: 
Special Startup CPG community pricing and no minimum # of demos with Grassroots Marketing, our official in-store demo partner. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to hummingbirds.com/startupCPGThis episode was sponsored by Cin7. Go to cin7.com/startupcpgThis episode was sponsored by Grassroots Marketing. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call)
In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Mott Smith, co-founder of Amped Kitchens and a Startup CPG partner. Together, they delve into the benefits of utilizing commercial kitchens for small food businesses, emphasizing regulatory compliance, control, and flexibility in manufacturing.

From product development challenges to staffing solutions, they explore various aspects of operating in a commercial kitchen, illuminating seamless transitions between spaces and the importance of community interactions.

Drawing parallels between music production and food formulation, they discuss the significance of clear communication, feedback, and decision-making in the development process, while also addressing challenges like perfectionism. They also discussed the industry trends, touching on the potential decline of ghost kitchens and the rise of delivery-optimized food halls.

Ready to take your food business to the next level? Tune in now!

Listen in as Mott shares about:
The Need and Ideal Customer for Commercial KitchensBenefits of Commercial Kitchens vs. ComansExamples and Case StudiesFacilities and Offerings of Commercial KitchensEquipment Needs for Different Types of Food ProductsConsultation, Expertise, and Cost ConsiderationsCommunity and NetworkingCertifications and LicensingIn-Person vs. Online InteractionServices Provided by Amped KitchensRelationship Between Food and MusicFuture Plans and Expansion of Amped KitchenGhost Kitchens and Food HallsEpisode Links:
Amped Kitchens Website
Mott Smith’s LinkedIn
Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.
Show Links:
Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics
Cin7 Links:
Get a free month trial and then 50% off your first 3 months. Check out cin7.com/startupcpgHummingbirds Links:
Find case studies, content + an exclusive chance to win a FREE custom managed campaign. Visit Hummingbirds.com/startupCPGGrassroots Links: 
Special Startup CPG community pricing and no minimum # of demos with Grassroots Marketing, our official in-store demo partner. Schedule a call at https://calendly.com/grassrootsmarketing/grassroots-x-startupcpg-intro-call

Join Grace Kennedy as she delves into the world of healthy vegetarian delights with Aman Blana, the founder of Growee Foods, in this bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast. Aman shares the journey behind Growee Foods, inspired by his Indian heritage and a quest for fresh, plant-based options in the US. From battling the challenges of working with co-packers to navigating distribution channels, Aman reveals how mentor communities like Startup CPG have been pivotal in guiding his path.

Discover Aman's innovative marketing strategies, including engaging farmers market demos and strategic brand collaborations. Learn how Growee Foods leverages email marketing and region-focused ads to drive sales growth on a bootstrap budget, all while prioritizing quality and taste above everything else.

What’s more, get a sneak peek into upcoming spicy flavors and product lines that will leave you salivating.

Tune in now and embark on a flavorful adventure with Growee Foods!
Listen in as Aman shares about:
Founder StoryChallenges in Starting UpMarketing Strategies Employed by Growee FoodsDistribution and Growth StrategyChallenges as a FounderPost-Expo West Follow-UpGrowee Foods Product DevelopmentMotivation and Community SupportAdvice for New EntrepreneursGrowee Foods AvailabilityEpisode Links:
Growee Foods Website
Aman Blana’s LinkedIn
Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.
Show Links:
Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to www.hummingbirds.comThis episode was sponsored by Simply Depo. Go to www.simplydepo.com
In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, join Daniel Scharff as he dives into the world of foodservice with Lizz Ingrassia and Allie Cotter of Fresh Time Market. Delving into their journey from restaurant dining to packaged retail meals, Liz and Allie share their expertise on the importance of flavor, customer-centricity, and understanding consumer needs in product selection. With foodservice comprising a significant portion of store sales, they discuss the role of branded and non branded items and much more.

Discover the challenges and triumphs of launching new products smoothly, working with suppliers, distribution strategies, and balancing labor issues with innovation. Learn valuable collaboration tips, including understanding store operations and 
delivering proposals aligned with customer expectations.

Tune in to gain actionable strategies for enhancing brand credibility, fostering successful partnerships, and creating memorable experiences for consumers!

Listen in as Lizz and Allie share about:
Vendor Relationship and NegotiationProduct Testing and Quality AssuranceInventory and Distribution PlanningMarketing and PromotionMonitoring and FeedbackSupport and Promotions for BrandsSampling Tool and Distribution StrategiesSuccessful Brand ExamplesContractual Issues and Operational EfficiencyFirst-to-Market AdvantageConsumer Shopping Behavior, Recalls, and Product IssuesThanks to our episode sponsor, SimplyDepo (simplydepo.com). SimplyDepo is a super sales and merchandising platform designed to help emerging brands win independent stores. Powered by the technology, they help you find potential customers, digitize all ordering and merchandising activities, and get all the store insights you need to scale your business. Get in touch at info@simplydepo.com or visit simplydepo.com and make sure to mention hearing this message on the Startup CPG Podcast
Episode Links:
Fresh Thyme Website
Allie’s LinkedInLizz’s LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com
Episode music by Super Fantastics

Hummingbirds Link:
to find case studies, content + an exclusive chance to win a FREE custom managed campaign. Visit hummingbirds.com/startupCPG Simply Depo Link:
Improve your sales reps' efficiency for solid management support to scale your business, email info@simplydepo.com or visit simplydepo.com

This episode was sponsored by Hummingbirds. Go to www.hummingbirds.com
Join Daniel Scharff in this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast together with Cory Hebert from Cin7 and Jamie Valenti-Jordan, CEO of Catapult Commercialization Services, as they illuminate the challenges faced by startups during product launches and emphasize the importance of accurate data entry to prevent financial losses and share invaluable insights on leveraging Inventory Management Systems (IMS) to streamline processes efficiently.

Discover practical strategies for reconciling orders with available inventory, optimizing payment terms, and managing cash flow challenges. Learn from real-world experiences and gain actionable advice on implementing efficient inventory management systems like Cin7 Core.
Cin7 is the market leader in Inventory Management for emerging brands. We have a Startup CPG EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT! 50% off the first 3 months of Cin7!
To register for a demo or start your free trial:
http://www.cin7.com/startupcpg

Don't miss out on this episode packed with expert advice and industry insights! Tune in now and take your inventory management to the next level!

Listen in as Cory and Jamie share about:
Initial Challenges Faced by StartupsExcel Limitations for Inventory ManagementProducts Compliance and SafetyAdvantages of Using IMS (Inventory Management Software)Starting a Business and IMS SubscriptionUser Experience and Critical Features of IMSOrder-to-Cash ProcessThe Difference between IMS and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning)Challenges and Limitations of ERPOutsourcing Operations and Operational ChallengesInventory Management Tips
get.cin7.com
Inventory Management Software | Cin7
Cin7 is trusted by thousands of businesses to get their products to more customers, in more places, faster than ever before. Try our inventory management software today.

Episode Links:
Website: Cin7
LinkedIn: Cory H.
Website: Catapult Commercialization ServicesLinkedIn: Jamie Valenti-Jordan

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:
Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics
Simply Depo Link:
Improve your sales reps' efficiency for solid management support to scale your business, email info@simplydepo.com or visit simplydepo.com

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG podcast, originally recorded as a webinar, join Daniel Scharff together with Jonny Price and James Reina as they talk through community fundraising and crowdsourcing with Jonny from Wefunder and James Reina from Jibby Coffee who recently completed a raise.
Discover why community rounds matter, how to handle financial disclosures, and the smart way to tailor your fundraising approach. James shares real-world insights from a winning campaign, stressing the importance of doing your homework, building relationships, and engaging your audience effectively.
Learn how personalized messages can sway investors and why educating your audience is key to long-term success. Plus, find out how crowdfunding can be a game-changer for underrepresented founders and new investors alike.
They'll also demystify Wefunder's fees, advertising tactics, and how to maximize your exposure as you hit funding milestones. Ready to embark on a crowdfunding journey? Tune in now!
Startup CPG Community Members get a discount on Wefunder fees by using this link: http://wefunder.com/startupCPG/raise
Listen in as James and Jonny share about:
What is a Community RoundTypes of investorsMinimum Check Size and Investment VolumeWefunder's MissionInvestor-Founder ConnectionChanges in Startup Valuation TrendsSetting Fundraising GoalsAdvantages and Disadvantages of Crowdfunding.Concerns about Financial Disclosure and Due Diligence.Legal Requirements, Timeline, and Investment Structures.Campaign Strategy, including ‘Pre-Launch Preparation and Momentum-Building.Marketing Tactics used During the Campaign.Diversity and Inclusion in Fundraising
wefunder.com
Let your community invest | Wefunder, Home of the Community Round
Raise $50K to $5M+ from hundreds of customers, fans, and friends—all in one line on your cap table.
Episode Links:
Wefunder’s Website 
James’s LinkedIn
Jonny’s LinkedIn

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.
Show Links:
Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (15K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics