Consumers continue to be conscious about the brands they support, and increasingly seek out sustainable and ethical companies, as well as those representing diverse ownership. In fact, values-based buying was named one of SFA’s top trends of 2021 by the SFA Trendspotters Panel. SFA News Daily asked retailers for their picks of popular products from women-, veteran-, and/or BIPOC-owned businesses.
Alita Kelly, South East Market, Grand Rapids, Michigan
• Brooklyn Tea Well-kanda Tea
• Iya Foods Cassava Waffle and Pancake Mix
• Luxe Artisan Preserves Trio Set
• Malamiah Juice Bar Bottled Juice
• Partake Crunchy Ginger Snap Cookies
“Supporting diverse food brands means supporting and acknowledging the rich contributions that people of color bring to our foodscape. Representation is so important for us all to come along on as we move toward a food culture that is equitable and sustainable. Both are required for the future so many of us ache to see, for our Earth and for humanity," said Kelly.
Kate Harper, Hive Online Marketplace
• A Dozen Cousins Creole Red Beans
• Mustache Munchies Cheddarish Crackers
• Partake Cookies, Soft Baked and Crunchy
• Pipcorn Cheddar Cheese Balls
• Quinn Maple Almond Butter Filled Pretzel Nuggets
Scott Crawford, FreshDirect
• Adirondack Creamery Syrian Date & Walnut Ice Cream
• Gina’s Pasticceria Key Lime Pie
• Nafis African Peanut Sauce
• Seemore Meats & Veggies Chicken Parm Sausage
• Zach & Zoë Wildflower Honey
“FreshDirect is proud to collaborate with dynamic and innovative women and diverse leaders, from experts on our own teams to the farmers, creators, and entrepreneurs behind many of our offerings. FreshDirect recognizes the importance of celebrating these food industry professionals who are crafting, innovating, and paving the way for a more equitable food system,” said Crawford.
Related: Buyers' Picks: Trendy Teas; Buyers’ Picks: Specialty Yogurt.
Images: Iya Foods, Quinn Snacks