The Specialty Food Association has selected the inaugural roster of its Fancy Food Rising Stars program for buyers and investors.
Recognizing emerging leaders in the specialty food industry age 35 and younger, the Rising Star initiative sought nominations from across the buying and business-financing communities, with SFA making the final selections.
They receive complimentary badges to the 2025 Summer Fancy Food Show, where SFA will support them in discovering new products, getting familiar with the trade show experience and building connections with one another and relevant exhibitors.
The show – which runs June 29-July 1 at NYC’s Javits Center – will showcase thousands of specialty food products from domestic and international exhibitors, educational programming and networking opportunities. For more information, click here.
The Summer 2025 Fancy Food Rising Stars are:
- Louise Ainsman, Target;
- Edwin Asmal, Sanniti;
- Becca DeLara, Salad and Go;
- Lily Feldman, Gopuff;
- Erika Fermin, Community Capital Bank;
- Paige Flanagan, Three Rivers Market Co-op;
- Jessie Kimsey, Misfits Market;
- Robbie Patterson, Asto Consumer Partners;
- Martina Pirisi, EATALY USA;
- Roberto Pizzoli, il Gigante;
- Mollye Santulli, Springdale Ventures;
- Roberto Scalia, Associated Supermarket;
- Aaliyah Walkes, Clifton Meats Limited; and
- Anna Whiteman, Coefficient Capital.
“We are very excited to launch this new program, created to recognize emerging leaders who are pushing the specialty food industry forward – and introduce them to the Summer Fancy Food Show,” said Bill Lynch, SFA president.
“We congratulate all the Rising Stars on their nominations and selection and can’t wait to connect with them over the myriad networking opportunities, events and innovative specialty food and beverage products at the show.”
About the Specialty Food Association
The Specialty Food Association (SFA) was founded in 1952 and is a nonprofit trade association of the $207-billion specialty food industry. Representing more than 4,000 businesses worldwide, SFA promotes industry participation and success for a diverse community of makers, buyers, importers, distributors and service providers by producing events, programs and year-round resources and education.
SFA owns and operates the Summer Fancy Food Show, Winter FancyFaire and the sofi Awards, which have honored excellence in specialty food and beverage annually since 1972. SFA also produces the e-newsletter Specialty Food SmartBrief, the Trendspotter Panel annual predictions and show reports.