From our cornerstone promotional programs to our hands-on retail consulting services to our countless peer networking opportunities, we’re on a mission to make sure that independent doesn’t mean alone.

This is a great introduction for retailers looking to learn more about joining INFRA, or anyone who wants to learn more about who we are and what we do!

In this week’s episode, the dynamic Kim and Jim combo dive into the state of hemp and THC in the natural foods space. THC waters and sparkling waters are up 68% compared to last year, and sales are up 105% across INFRA. And yet, cannabis seems to face an uphill battle. From the ups and downs of legal challenges to the ever-changing regulations, we’re looking forward to dissecting this complex and growing category.  

In this week’s episode of The Buyer’s Desk, Kim interviews Betsy Frost, CEO of beverage brand Q Mixers. Betsy shares her journey through leadership transitions, innovations in premium mixers, and the future of beverage categories blending alcohol, N/A, and functional drinks. Whether you’re a buyer, brand owner, or beverage enthusiast, discover insights to navigate and capitalize on the current trends! 

In this week’s episode, Angela joins Member Success Advisor Jesse Roque and Supply Agreement Assortment Lead Aprille Thurheimer to explore the rise of gendered and menopausal products on the shelf. From the evolution of gendered marketing to the cultural implications of body image and health trends, join us for an engaging discussion about DUDE Wipes, Luna Bars vs Clif Bars, and more. 

Join SPINS expert Jim Olson and Senior Category Manager Kim Route as they explore this growing category (up 22% at INFRA stores compared to last year). From The Cycle’s period relief beverages to the vibrant flavors of Fly by Jing, explore the female founders that are reshaping the natural foods industry. 

They also dive into the power of storytelling through podcasting, swap favorite natural food finds, and talk about what’s next as INFRA moves toward an exciting milestone of nearly 400 members. Plus, Pat offers a preview of the fresh perspectives and big ideas he’s bringing to the show and why he’s so energized about the road ahead. 

Plus, we look ahead to the future of dietary guidelines and unpack the critical role grocery stores can play in shaping healthier communities.

This week’s episode kicks off the beginning of our two-part series with natural foods icon and nutritionist, Marion Nestle. Join us as we explore the complexities of nutrition science, the evolution of natural foods marketing, and the importance of empowering consumers to make informed choices. Plus, learn more about how independent retailers can play a role in educating their shoppers in an era of ultra-processed foods and conflicting messages when it comes to what makes a healthy diet.  

In our first Buyer's Desk episode of the month, Jim teams up with INFRA Category Manager Chris Madden and Promotional Programs Manager Jared Peterson to dive into the controversial world of seed oils. As more consumers start to actively avoid seed oils, we explore alternatives that are becoming more prevalent in natural CPG, including avocado and olive oils. Plus, learn more about how the animal fat category is expanding, from tallow to butter to ghee.  

Next week, get ready for the beginning of our two-part conversation with natural foods icon and nutritionist Marion Nestle – don't miss it!  

Plus, stay tuned for big and exciting changes to The Buyer’s Desk throughout January—including new guest hosts and more. 

See you in 2026 as we continue reflecting on industry trends and look ahead to the new year!

Hear from Tero about how Four Sigmatic helped to establish a thriving functional mushroom market and the vital role that mushrooms play in cultures across the world.

Plus, learn more about his book, "Santa Sold Shrooms," a children's book about the indigenous Sami origins of Santa Claus.

In this Buyer's Desk Backstock episode, we're revisiting our conversation with Nicole Dawes, Founder & CEO of Nixie and Founder of Late July.

From her experiences growing up in a natural foods family to her advice for other women entrepreneurs to her belief in the power of independent retail, you won't want to miss these insights!

In this week’s backstock episode, we're revisiting Angela's conversation with Ryan Honeyman from Lift Economy, a self-proclaimed B-Corp “nerd” and expert who has guided numerous food and retail companies through the certification process. He touches on the three main components of B Corp certification, the recent shifts B Labs is making to its certification standards, and how creating more circularity in your business practices can lead to more efficient operations.  

In this episode, we're revisiting our conversation with Roland Gahler, founder and owner of Natural Factors – in Roland’s first public interview – to share his story and philosophy on what it means to be independent. Hear more about Natural Factor’s stringent commitment to non-GMO, the importance of purity and efficacy in natural supplements, and Roland’s own reasonings for maintaining independence.  

Next week, we continue our backstock series with Paul Lightfoot from Patagonia Provisions, who illuminates their commitment to being Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC).  

In this Buyer’s Desk Backstock episode, we’re running back our conversation with Justin Gill, CEO of fan-favorite Bachan’s Japanese BBQ Sauce. Hear more about their unique cold-filling process, the heartwarming story behind the brand, and why it’s important not to sacrifice ingredient cost for quality, especially when it comes to preserving cultural authenticity. 

Stay tuned for more of your favorite episodes throughout the end of the year, including great conversations with brand founders and innovators from Patagonia Provisions, Natural Factors and more! 

In this episode, we dive into INFRA’s latest private label initiative—The Good Collective—a bold new wellness brand created exclusively for our independent retailer community. Hear from INFRA President & CEO Pat Sheridan and Wellness Strategist Sarah Super about the why behind the brand, the importance of differentiation in a competitive market, and how this strategic focus on wellness products is designed to help INFRA Members thrive.  

This week on the show, we welcome Tyler Hemming, Director Sales Strategy, and Linda Stielstra, Director of Business Management, from CADIA, INFRA’s close partner in the private label space. They chat with Chris about strategies for product development, sourcing, sustainability, and current challenges in the supply chain. They also emphasis the importance of feedback from retailers, while looking forward to the future of the private label market.  

Next week, don’t miss a deep dive into INFRA’s newest private label initiative—The Good Collective—an exclusive wellness brand created by and for our independent retailer community!   

In this episode, Chris chats with INFRA’s own Manager of Member Success, Kelly Miles. Hear from Kelly about the urgency of adopting private label strategies at a time where shoppers are looking for value in their shopping experience. They’ll also delve into the balance between private label and emerging brands, the spectrum of quality in private label offerings, and how INFRA Members can improve price perception by adopting their own private label strategies.  

This month, we’re tackling a topic that’s taken the natural grocery retail landscape by storm—private label. From Whole Food’s 365 line to Albertson’s O Organics, there’s no denying that private label products drive real customer value. 

In this episode, Angela chats with SPINS Senior Retail Insights Manager Jim Olson to learn more about why independent retailers should capitalize on the trend. We’ll explore some of the most exciting opportunities in private label, unpack shopper preferences by exploring the data, and more.  

The Halls share their journey of launching during the COVID-19 pandemic, their commitment to sustainable packaging, and the unique challenges and benefits of being a mission-based company. They also discuss their innovative product formulations and the importance of consumer education in the wellness industry. 

A huge thank you to True Grace for being INFRA’s top 20-year sponsor and for supporting our independent retailer community. We couldn’t do this work without you! 

Next week, we’re rounding out the month with a message from our partner and 20 years sponsor—True Grace. Hear from Founders Brian and Kristina Hall about how they measure impact as a mission-based company and the work they do to support and partner with independent retailers. 

Next week, we’re hearing from Max Goldberg of Organic Insider—a leader and watchdog in the organic space. Don’t miss this discussion on maintaining organic standards, the intricacies of hydroponics, and more! 

In this episode of The Buyer’s Desk, Angela chats with Shawna Rodgers, Donor Relations Manager for the CCOF Foundation. Shawna shares her own personal journey with food as medicine, the evolution of the CCOF Foundation, and the critical role of organic farming in shaping a more ethical and sustainable food system. Learn more about the challenges new farmers face and the innovative programs CCOF has launched to support the next generation of organic food producers. 

Next week, we’re exploring regenerative organic certifications with Jeff Tkach, CEO of Rodale Institute. From personal health journeys to the impact of farming on community well-being, you won’t want to miss this conversation! 

In this episode of The Buyer’s Desk, Chris, Angela, and Jim dive into the dynamic world of organic. Discover how consumer demand is driving innovation, the rise of organic options in kid-focused categories, and the role of private labels in expanding organic accessibility. Plus, learn more about how INFRA Retailers are leading the charge in the natural channel, with an impressive 11% growth in organic product sales year-over-year. 

Next week, we’re continuing our celebration of National Organic Month with our partners from CCOF. Hear from Donor Relations Manager Shawna Rodgers about the pivotal role CCOF plays in supporting organic farmers, in California and across the country. 

In this episode of The Buyers Desk, we’re bringing you a fascinating re-run from our member-driven podcast – Common Roots! INFRA Board Member Drew Alexander shares his own leadership journey from dishwasher to store owner of Cornucopia Natural Foods in Sayville, NY. The conversation also explores the strategies he uses to support employee longevity and how Cornucopia upholds its commitment to rigorous product standards. 

Next week, we are excited to start our month-long dive into organic and organic integrity for National Organic Month! Join us as Jim chats about all things organic and what trends independent retailers should have on their radar. 

This week, we take our leadership focus to a new level as Chris talks to Jen Dary from Plucky, a leadership coaching firm, about the complexities of being a leader. Jen shares real-world insights on what it means to lead with intention, how to manage with empathy, and why connection, not control, is the secret of strong leadership. Whether you're a store manager, team lead, or just getting your leadership footing, this episode is packed with practical tools and inspiration. 

Next week we are chatting with David Bronner, of Dr. Bronner's, about leading with values, vision, and guts. Join us as we dive into how he has redefined how to be a CEO and the importance of ethical, transparent business. You won’t want to miss this look at a leadership style that’s anything but ordinary! 

Next week, join us for a conversation with Jen Dary from Plucky as she unpacks what effective leadership training looks like in the grocery industry, and why it matters now more than ever. 

Next week, we're kicking off a month-long spotlight on grocery leadership! First up, Angela sits down with INFRA’s Director of People and Culture, Michele Lamppa, for an inspiring conversation about leading with purpose in today’s ever-evolving grocery landscape. 

This week, we sit down with Coleen Noel, INFRA’s newest board member and the owner of Diane’s Natural Market and Sunflower Health Foods in FL, to hear about her journey from corporate life into the heart of the natural foods industry! In this inspiring episode, Coleen shares what drew her to becoming a business owner and touches on the unique value that independents bring to customers and communities. 

Next week, to round out our “independent” theme, we’re joined by Seth Goldman, co-founder of Just Ice Tea, about launching fast, staying bold, and why independence isn’t just a strategy, it’s a mission. This one packed with purpose, passion, and plenty of takeaways you don’t want to miss!

Next week, Angela sits down with Coleen Noel, newly elected INFRA Board Member and co-owner of Diane’s Natural Market. Tune in for a fresh perspective on independent retail from someone who’s living it every day. 

This week, we’re continuing our celebration of independents by chatting with Michele Marchetti, Deputy Director of The Cornucopia Institute. As a non-profit consumer education and watchdog organization, The Cornucopia Institute helps consumers understand the value of shopping independent and organic. Join us for a deep dive into their Independent Organic Brand List – a tool that makes it easier for retailers to help their consumers make informed choices about the food they buy. 

Next week, Chris discusses what it means to be an independent brand with Aaron Anker, Owner of Grandy Organics. Don’t miss it!  

Next week, we’ll be joined by the Cornucopia Institute to discuss their Independent Organic Brand List; a powerful resource designed to help shoppers understand why choosing independent and organic matters now more than ever. 

In this episode, Chris and Angela chat about all things merchandising with Mark Rodriguez, Director of Grocery at Frazier Farms Market in California. With over 20 years of grocery experience, learn how Mark turns his critical eye for merchandising into practical, in-store wins. Tune in as he breaks down his personal philosophy on merchandising, reveals tips for building a compelling local product set, and explains why data is key to measuring success and planning for growth.  

Whether you're a seasoned buyer or new to the grocery floor, this episode is packed with insights you can bring back to your store. 

If you’re interested in learning more from the experts, be sure to attend our session at the INFRA Annual Conference – Core Principles of Effective Merchandising! 

In this episode, Angela chats with Nathan Aldridge, Education & Team Member Enrichment Manager at Gourmet Foods International (GFI), about the ins and outs of cheese merchandising. They discuss how to curate an exciting set that’s full of customer favorites and enticing offerings, how to train staff to enhance customer service, and more.  

Next week, we'll have a roundtable discussion about merchandising with INFRA Promotions & Merchandising Advisory Specialists Rachel Keeler and Braden Flores.  

Next week, we’re chatting with Nathan Aldridge, Education & Team Member Enrichment Manager at Gourmet Foods International about cheese merchandising!  

In this episode of The Buyer’s Desk, hosts Chris Sorensen and Angela Bozo sit down with Kestrel Burcham, Policy Director at the Cornucopia Institute, to pull back the curtain on the food industry—and what it really means when a label says "organic" or "humane." Learn more about how the Cornucopia Institute’s consumer education efforts are reshaping the way consumers navigate animal welfare certifications.  

In this episode of The Buyer’s Desk, host Chris Sorensen sits down with Nick Westby, founder of OrgaNick Pastures, for an eye-opening conversation about what really goes into ethical egg production. Nick shares how he got into sustainable farming, the current realities of the egg market, and why transparent labels are more important than ever.  

Next week, we chat with the Cornucopia Institute about their in-depth scorecards when it comes to meat, eggs, and dairy.  

In this episode, Angela chats with Kristine and Richard from Regenified, a certification company championing regenerative agriculture and animal welfare. They highlight how farmers, retailers, and consumers alike can build a more regenerative food system, and how Regenified creates an important starting point by allowing customers to make informed decisions about the animal products they buy.  

Next week, Chris sits down with Nick Westby, Founder and Owner of OrgaNick Pastures, an organic and pasture-raised farm located in Wisconsin.  

Next week, we’ll hear from Kristine and Richard from Regenified, a pioneering certification company that champions regenerative agriculture and animal welfare.  

Grace brings her expert insight on crafting standout coffee programs, the power of passionate, educated staff, and why innovation is key in today’s competitive coffee scene.  

Check out this video for a visual walk through of Peace Coffee's facilities.

Next week, we’ll wrap up April’s coffee theme by chatting with Grace Tara Hileman from New Seasons Market to get a retailer’s perspective on creating the perfect coffee experience in store.  

Don’t miss next week’s episode, where we’ll chat with a coffee expert from Stumptown Coffee Roasters, whose mission is to source the world’s best coffees while challenging supply chain norms.

So, grab your deep-breathing exercises, because this episode is full of peaceful, and perhaps questionable, advice. 

Oh, and just in case you didn’t catch that... April Fools! 

Located in San Francisco, CA, Bi-Rite has been a Bay Area staple for transparent, responsible foods since its founding in 1940. We get the inside scoop (pun intended) on how Sam’s culinary background has impacted his passion for sourcing high-quality ingredients, Bi-Rite's journey towards B-Corp certification, and Bi-Rite's unique Creamery operation.  

Next week, we have a special cross-over episode with Common Roots where we’ll hear from Sam Mogannam, Second-Generation Owner of the Bi-Rite Family of Businesses.  

Next week, we have a fascinating conversation with Elizabeth Stein, Founder of Purely Elizabeth, about their journey towards B Corp certification and sneak peek into their new cookie granola line!  

Next week, we’ll chat with Ryan Honeyman from LIFT Economy, a B Corp consulting firm, about how businesses can obtain certification. See you then!  

In this week’s episode of The Buyer’s Desk, Chris, Angela, and INFRA Category Manager Jared Peterson break down the nitty-gritty of effective category management – roundtable style! Listen in for tactical tips about how you can balance data with larger customer trends, use aesthetics to your advantage, and win in every category.  

Next month, we kick off our March B-Corp theme with a SPINS data discussion. Don’t miss it!  

Be sure to tune in next week where we'll wrap it all up with a category management roundtable!

Tune in next week, where Chris will chat with our partners from KeHE about how they support retailers with category reviews and more.  

Next week, Angela will chat with Daniel Scharff from Startup CPG about how startup brands navigate getting on the shelf. See you then!  

Get ready for February’s theme – Category Management! Join us next week for a data-driven discussion with SPINS Retail Insights Managers Jim Olson and Kyle Youngs.  

Next week, we’ll round out January’s growth theme with another conversation with INFRA CEO Pat Sheridan.  

Tune in next week where we'll talk growth with INFRA's own Director of Purchasing, Nick Auzenne.

Stay tuned for next week’s episode, where Chris sits down with Stephanie Painter, Co-Founder of The Painterland Sisters Skyr Yogurt to talk brand growth.

We’re exploring all there is to know about chocolate in this month’s episode! Jim and Category Manager Kim kick off the SPINS segment chatting about trends in chocolate over the last year, including international origins, alternative sweeteners, and functional ingredients. 

Next, we dive into our first ever roundtable with Tim from Beyond Good and Chocolate Educator Dr. Jessica Henderson, discussing topics like the difference between craft and mass-produced chocolate, how bean origin influences flavor, and the pros and cons of certifications. 

In this special Hispanic Heritage Month episode, we’re shining a spotlight on Hispanic-owned stores and brands! First, resident SPINS expert Jim Olson takes us through several Hispanic-owned brands making a splash at INFRA Member stores. Next, Angela and Member Implementation Specialist Rayna chat with Lester Gonzalez of Las Monjitas Health Foods in Puerto Rico. Lester tells us his brand story and speaks to the importance of “atencion” in retaining his customers. Next, Chris chats with Miguel Leal, Co-Founder of SOMOS, about the importance of authentic Mexican brands in CPG and scaling a business while maintaining core values.

Tune in for a celebration of innovation, culture, and business excellence!

Join us in this month's episode as we dive into the world of marketing! First, SPINS expert Jim gives a run down on how SPINS can help independent retailers differentiate themselves. Next, Chris has an engaging discussion with Tina and Amanda from the Natural Products Marketer Podcast, exploring the vital role of digital strategy in effective marketing and how creative in-person experiences can boost sales. Plus, John Wood from The Green Grocer shares his insights on crafting effective social media ads with the support of an external marketing agency. Don’t miss these expert perspectives on driving success in today’s market!

In celebration of Independent Retailer Month, we're exploring a unique strength of independent retailers: local sourcing!

First, SPINS expert Jim Olson delves into how local sourcing resonates with values-oriented consumers. Then, Chris and Jim join forces in a discussion with Allison Hohn, Executive Director at Naturally Minnesota, about connecting small brands with the resources they need to thrive and the crucial role independent retailers play in helping these brands gain traction. Lastly, Angela interviews David Warner from INFRA Member City Feed and Supply, focusing on prioritizing the customer's perspective and building strong relationships with local vendors.

First, Chris chats with founder Haley from Actual Veggies about innovation in the veggie burger space. Next, he has a conversation with Addy about GoMacro’s exciting new flavors and compostable packaging. Michael from MyBacon talks about the endless possibilities of mycelium protein, and much more! 

Shout out to the INFRA members we ran into at the show - including folks from A Clean Plate, Gibson’s Fresh Grocer, Cornucopia Natural Foods, Skyline Health, Pilgrim’s Market, Leg Up Farmer’s Market, and Spangler’s Market! 

In this month’s episode we’re diving deep into sea food sustainability! SPINS expert Jim Olson gives us the run down on CPG brands making responsible sea food happen - including products in the tin fish and seaweed snack categories. Next, Angela and INFRA Fresh Retail Consultant Matt Olson sit down with Michelle Beritzhoff-Law from Fishwise - a sustainable sea food consultancy organization. Lastly, Chris chats with Nicole Gitlin from Nordic Naturals about how they value regulated fishing and bycatch prevention in producing their Omega-3 supplements. 

This month, Chris and Angela celebrate Earth Month with two amazing guests! 

Angela sits down with Shannon Holtzman, Purchasing and Merchandising Manager at Leg Up Farmer’s Market, to talk re-usable bags, the labor (and love) of local sourcing, and Shannon’s career journey as a Category Manager.

Next, Chris chats with Elizabeth Whitlow, Executive Director of the Regenerative Organic Alliance, about the importance of soil health, building upon the organic certification, and hydroponics. 

In this month's episode, Chris and Angela explore all things wellness!

First, our resident SPINS expert Jim Olson gives us the run down on wellness trends to keep an eye on - including performance nutrition and woman-focused wellness.

Chris chats with Dan Chapman, CEO of Redd Remedies and second-generation owner of early INFRA Member Sunrise Health Foods. They talk about everything from the importance of product purity to how Dan has seen being an INFRA member change over the years.

Next Sarah Super, INFRA's Wellness Strategist, chats with Lauren and Alina from St.Paul-based wellness store Mastel’s. They talk about the founding and history of Mastel’s, wellness social media strategies, and anticipating customer needs.

In this month's episode, Angela and Chris hear from black farmers breaking barriers in the agricultural and natural foods industries. Chris and Category Manager Kim Route chat with Angela Dawson, Co-Founder, President & CEO of 40 Acre Co-op about her trajectory into farming, the importance of the co-op model, and the structural barriers she has faced as a black woman farmer. Next, Chris chats with Olowo-n’djo Tchala, Founder & CEO of Alaffia about going above and beyond Fair Trade standards and building community through trust.

We’re kicking off season 2 of The Buyer’s Desk with a deep dive into trade shows! In this special cross over episode, Jessica Rubino and Adrienne Smith from New Hope Network’s The Natural List Podcast give us the inside scoop on what retailers can expect from Newtopia Now in 2024. And, you won’t want to miss our conversation with Amy Clark from KeHe about trade show strategy and 2024 trend predictions.

It’s time to make room for shrooms in your stocking this holiday season! In this episode, our resident SPINS expert Jim Olson takes you on a tour of the latest mushroom product trends we’re seeing on shelves. Next, we chat with INFRA Member Adam Stark at Debra’s Natural Gourmet about his local mushroom set. Category Manager Lauren Bartel dives into the many health benefits of mushrooms with Jerry Angelini, Head of Education from Host Defense Supplements. Lastly, we talk about Tero Isokauppila, Founder and CEO of Four Sigmatic about his hand-illustrated storybook for adults, “Santa Sold Shrooms.” 

In this month’s episode, we’re talking about one of the “P”s of Category Management - product mix. Chris chats with Andy Oelrich from MaMa Jean’s Natural Market and Deli about space planning. Next, we’ll hear from CADIA about how to decide on product mix when building a successful EDLP program. Plus, our own category management experts - Lauren Bartel and Matt Ryan - give their insights on why you should consider seasonality and other factors when putting together your endcaps and SKUs. 

We’re back to talk everything fermentation – from Kimchi and Kombucha to a new consumer product inspired by the Mexican fermented beverage Tepache. Chris sits down with INFRA Director of Purchasing Nick Auzenne and Fresh Retail Consultant Michael Paynic to talk about the history of fermentation and emerging retail trends. Angela talks retail products with INFRA Member Max Becher from Uncle Dean’s. Lastly, we speak with Rafa Del Campo, co-founder of De La Calle Tepache about his brand story, sources of inspiration, and Tepache’s Aztec roots.

This episode is brought to you by Siete Family Foods, Nixie Sparkling Water, and EO Products.

This episode is brought to you by Alexandre Family Farms, Crofter’s Organic, and Weleda.

July means celebrating independence, and independents! Join Chris and Angela this month as we discuss all things independent business. Jim Olson is joined by special guest Simon Cutts, Director – Retail Partners, SPINS. Then, INFRA President & CEO Pat Sheridan sits down with 10 of INFRA’s 11 Board Members to ask each of them what it means to be an independent. Lastly, Chris talks with Roland Gahler, founder and owner of Natural Factors – in Roland’s first public interview – to share his story and philosophy on what it means to be independent. 

Timestamps: 

Data talk with Jim Olson and Simon Cutts: 2:59 

Pat Sheridan and the INFRA Board of Directors: 16:00 

Roland Gahler of Natural Factors: 51:55 

Join us on the show floor!

Join Chris and Angela at The Buyer’s Desk as we celebrate the vibrance and variance of our community and the communities of our members. Jim Olson, SPINS gets things going with data insights around BIPOC-owned brands, customer values, and sales trends between the two. Angela is then joined by Earnest Flowers, founder and owner of Earnest Foods to discuss his origin story in recognizing a community need for a grocery store and stepping up to meet it. In our retail talk, INFRA’s Kim Route, Category Manager, and Nina Brown, Marketing Manager, bring store-level and data perspectives to BIPOC-owned brands in INFRA stores and the community benefits of inclusivity. Last but certainly not least, Chris is joined by Ibraheem Basir, founder and CEO of A Dozen Cousins to talk his brand’s story, Ibraheem’s inspirations, and strategies for balancing high-quality products with accessibility. 

Timestamps: 

Data insights with Jim Olson: 3:11 

Earnest Flowers of Earnest Foods: 5:54 

Retail Talk with Kim Route and Nina Brown: 22:09 

Ibraheem Basir of A Dozen Cousins: 37:01 

Chris and Angela return to The Buyer’s Desk to dig into fair trade! Jim Olson, SPINS gets the show going with data insights focused on fair trade products, certifications, and sales trends. Angela sits down with Emily Kanter, Second-Gen Co-Owner of INFRA Member Cambridge Naturals and INFRA Board Chair to talk fair trade certifications and making a difference through retail. Next, Chris is joined by Amanda Archila, Executive Director of Fairtrade America, Matt Olson, INFRA Fresh Program Manager, and Lauren Bartel, INFRA Wellness Category Manager for retail talk where we dive into fair trade supply, certifications, challenges, consumer education, and more. Lastly, Chris is joined by Manish Gupta, founder and CEO of Matr Boomie, to discuss fair trade in producer communities and making a multicultural company work. 

Timestamps: 

Data insights with Jim Olson: 3:28 

Emily Kanter of Cambridge Naturals: 6:22 

Retail Talk with Fairtrade America: 21:56 

Manish Gupta of Matr Boomie: 39:42 

Welcome to this month’s episode of The Buyer’s Desk with Chris and Angela! In honor of Earth Month, this episode is about all things sustainability. Jim Olson, SPINS kicks things off with data insights around sustainable packaging and consumer perceptions. Chris then sits down with Jason Murrell, Perishable Buyer, and Stephanie Morris, Sustainability Coordinator at INFRA Member Jimbo’s... Naturally! in San Diego, CA to talk about their sustainability strategy and how they’ve been influencing the industry through it. Next, Angela is joined by Rachel Comeaux, INFRA Business Programs Manager for retail talk. Lastly, Chris sits down with father-daughter duo Bryce and Brita Lundberg of Lundberg Family Farms to talk family history, generations of sustainable trendsetting, and regenerative organic agriculture. 

Timestamps: 

Grocery insights with Jim Olson: 3:23 

Jason Murrell & Stephanie Morris of Jimbo’s... Naturally!: 3:33 

Sustainability retail talk with Rachel Comeaux: 20:34 

Bryce & Brita Lundberg of Lundberg Family Farms: 32:15 

Join Chris and Angela at The Buyer’s Desk as we discuss women in grocery on this special Women’s History Month episode! Jim Olson, SPINS starts us off with grocery insights around women-owned brands, then we move into a wonderful interview with the dynamic, always-inspiring Cheryl Hughes of The Whole Wheatery, CA. Next, Angela leads our retail talk with some of the fantastic women of INFRA – Lauren Bartel, Category Manager; Jesse Roque, Retail Services & Merchandising Lead; Sara Fulton-Koerbling, Retail Marketing Lead; and Kim Route, Category Manager – on their experiences as women in grocery. Finally, Chris sits down with Nicole Dawes, founder of both Late July Snacks and Nixie Sparkling Water, to dig into Nixie and her story.

Timestamps: 

Grocery insights with Jim Olson: 2:05 

Cheryl Hughes of The Whole Wheatery, CA: 5:16 

Women in grocery retail talk: 17:25 

Nicole Dawes of Nixie Sparkling Water: 32:20 

Sit down at The Buyer’s Desk with Chris and Angela as they kick things off with Jim Olson, SPINS to talk retail insights around regen ag and moves us right to Angela and INFRA Member owner Mark Squire from Good Earth Natural Foods, CA with a robust conversation around buying strategies and agricultural practices. Next, we’re talking retail and regenerative agriculture with INFRA’s own Matt Olson, Jesse Roque, and Nina Brown. Lastly, Chris is joined by Paul Lightfoot of Patagonia Provisions to dig into Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) and how Patagonia is supporting Rodale Institute in the Regenerative Organic Alliance to push ROC forward and bring clarity to the question of “what is regenerative.” 

Timestamps: 

Insights with Jim Olson, SPINS: 2:44 

Mark Squire of Good Earth Natural Foods, CA: 5:59 

Retail talk with Matt, Jesse, and Nina: 23:10 

Paul Lightfoot of Patagonia Provisions: 37:18 

Chris & Angela kick off the inaugural episode with Jim Olson, SPINS On-site Account Manager for INFRA with a look back at insights from 2022 and a look forward to trends for 2023. Angela interviews Thomas Barstow of Guido's Fresh Marketplace to discuss their buying strategies. Chris has a conversation with his INFRA colleagues, Andy Huth & Kate Fletcher to discuss "persevering through the pandemic" as retailers and what tools we have at our disposal to help our customers feed their families and stay within their means. Then Chris sits down with Denise Woodard, founder & CEO of Partake Foods to learn more about the brand, how they started and discuss how retailers can engage with the brand. 

Timestamps: 

Jim Olson, SPINS: 6:13

Thomas Barstow, Guido’s Fresh Marketplace: 8:55; 40:45

Andy Huth & Kate Fletcher, INFRA: 20:00

Denise Woodard, Partake Foods: 31:15