Summary:

In this episode of the Produce Moms podcast, Lori Taylor interviews Mac Anderson, the co-founder and chief commercial officer of Cleveland Kitchen. They discuss the mission of The Produce Moms, the story behind Cleveland Kitchen, and the cultural significance of fermented foods. Mac shares how the company started and their journey to national expansion. They also talk about the different product lines offered by Cleveland Kitchen, including sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles. The episode highlights the success of Cleveland Kitchen in bringing center store favorites to the produce department and their partnerships with food service establishments. In this conversation, Mac Anderson also shares the story behind the brand and their journey in the food industry. They discuss the challenges they faced, the growth of the company, and the importance of building a strong brand. The conversation highlights the entrepreneurial spirit and the passion for creating high-quality fermented foods. Overall, it provides insights into the journey of starting and growing a successful food business.

Takeaways:

• Cleveland Kitchen is on a mission to get more fermented vegetables on every table.
• The company started as a result of a mother’s passion for fresh produce and farm-raised goods.
• Cleveland Kitchen offers a variety of fermented foods, including sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles.
• The products are known for their fresh, crunchy texture, delicious flavor and probiotic benefits.
• Cleveland Kitchen has expanded nationally and is available in major retail stores and food service establishments. Starting a food business requires passion, perseverance, and a strong belief in the product.
• Challenges are inevitable, but they can be overcome with determination and adaptability.
• Building a brand is crucial for success, and it involves creating a unique identity and connecting with customers.
• Focusing on quality and innovation can set a food business apart from competitors.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Mission of The Produce Moms

00:56 Connecting with Fellow Founders

03:08 The Story of Cleveland Kitchen

06:13 Growing Up in a Produce Family

09:59 Entrepreneurial Spirit and Starting Cleveland Kitchen

13:27 The Cultural Significance of Fermented Foods

19:16 Scaling and National Expansion

23:38 Expanding the Product Line

25:26 Entering the Food Service Market

32:43 Bringing Center Store Favorites to the Produce Department

37:37 Where to Find Cleveland Kitchen Products

10:30 Starting Cleveland Kitchen

20:15 Challenges and Growth

30:45 Building a Brand

39:30 Conclusion

Resources:

Website: Cleveland Kitchen

Facebook: (2) Cleveland Kraut | Facebook

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clevelandkitchen/