Specialty food is the fastest growing sector of the food market. In 2010, sales of specialty food and beverages rose 7%, representing over 70 billion dollars of revenue for the industry. According to the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade, specialty foods represent 13.1 percent of all food sales.
Jeff Landsman at Specialty Food Sales is getting in on this trend. His startup company, based at the TowsonGlobal Business Incubator, brings specialty food products to stores throughout the Mid-Atlantic. The company represents manufacturers of dozens of niche market products, from sauces to snack foods. Specialty Food Sales focuses on bringing these products to the attention of grocery chains.
"We represent unique products that are natural, don't have a large advertising budget, and most importantly taste good," says Mr. Landsman.
Mr. Landsman has over 25 years of experience in the food industry. He chose the TowsonGlobal Business Incubator for his newest venture in order to explore the resources of a college community. The TowsonGlobal Business Incubator, located on the university campus, provides entrepreneurs with access to resources such as office space and business counseling.
"Because I have been in the business for so long, I thought that opening in a business incubator could bring in opportunity for collaboration. Working in a university brings in youthful perspectives and ideas," continues Mr. Landsman. "It was definitely a good decision."
Specialty Food sales is launching a new product, Popcorners. These gluten-free popcorn based snack chips will be appearing soon in Giant Food and Stop & Shop stores across the Mid-Atlantic.
Writer: Amy McNeal
Sources: Jeff Landsman, Specialty Food Sales; the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade, Inc.