By George Anderson
In an era of consolidation and mega-brand corporations, it isn't often a small food manufacturer to make it big in supermarkets.
No Pudge! Foods appears as though it will become an exception to the rule. The company's No Pudge! Brownies are being sold in Ahold, Safeway Trader Joe's across the country.
The company has benefited from an industry initiative to assist woman and minority-owned businesses gain distribution in supermarkets.
Tim Williams, Supplier Diversity Manager, Safeway said, "Our supplier diversity effort is a proactive approach to have our supplier base more reflective of the diverse communities in which we do business while encouraging economic development. No Pudge! Brownies met our quality standards and only needed an opportunity from a large corporation to shine. Once their item is on the shelf, it is up to them to deliver to the consumer. The consumer ultimately decides which items stay on our shelves. We look forward to carrying No Pudge! products in Safeway stores across the country."
Moderator's Comment: Has the industry leveled the playing field for woman and minority-owned businesses? Once distribution has been gained, are grocers supporting these small brands enough to help make them successful?
For others looking at distributing No Pudge! Products, here's our unsolicited plug. They're fudge brownies are great! [George Anderson - Moderator]