Naperville, Illinois-based KeHE Distributors has announced the “Golden Ticket” winners of its recent Diversity TrendFinder event, fast tracking them into its DIVERSEtrade program. Nearly 200 suppliers were each given 20 minutes to pitch their brand one-on-one to KeHE’s Category Management team, which chose 20 to be added to the distributor’s assortment.
“Diversity, equality and inclusion is not only a top priority for us at KeHE, but we also want to make an impact in the natural food industry, which is why our latest TrendFinder event was dedicated to sourcing brands that are minority lead,” said Rachelle Radcliffe, director of brand development at KeHE. “We believe that women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, veterans and people with disabilities deserve the opportunity to get access to KeHE’s expertise, and we can’t wait to help them grow their brand in the marketplace.”
Looking to bring innovation and new products to its retail partners, KeHE has selected its TrendFinder “Golden Ticket” recipients based on diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as on the ingredients they use, how they taste, eye-catching packaging and company purpose.
The following chosen “Golden Ticket” brands will be onboarded at KeHE:
Got Paella, Global Village Foods, Sarah’s Homegrown, Soldadera Coffee, Well Told, Mulan Dumpling, Alcoeats, Mabi Artisanal Tea, Molassity, Dolce Biscotti, Linda’s Salsa LLC, Lorenzo’s Frozen Pudding, STL Pure Heat Gourmet, Nomad Dumplings, PureWild Co., Teffola, Blind Tiger, MomRemedy, Sippin Snax and Cheeziños.
By joining KeHE’s product portfolio, these brands will gain exposure to more than 30,000 retail locations and support the distributor’s retail partners in bringing innovation and new products to customers. Along with breaking down barriers to entry and assisting the “Golden Ticket” winners in navigating distribution, KeHE is offering each brand promotional programs free of charge.
To learn more about how KeHE is supporting the supplier community, click here.
