Whether you have a small meat market or a high-end retail product line, customers seek you out because you offer something that they can’t find from the larger meat corporations. Your creativity in developing these products is an asset, so take full advantage of it!
The meat company's name — typically one of the first things a consumer sees on a label — must help to establish not only the brand’s identity, but also its philosophy. True Story Foods, founded in 2011, evokes the type of honesty and transparency that consumers want, just from its name alone.
Scott Sechler, owner of Bell & Evans, has led his company to become one of the premier chicken companies in the country, with premium prices, a loyal consumer following, and farmers lining up to grow chickens for the company.
While a multi-billion dollar corporation doesn't have much in common with a small meat market, there are some similarities. Chief among them would be something at or near the top of their list of challenges: finding and retaining good employees.
Ric Scicchitano, managing partner at FDR, spoke with me recently to discuss the big trends that will be impacting the restaurant industry in 2018 and beyond.