#87 Fresh off the show floor, Jacinta shares three real takeaways from CHFA — not theory, but what actually worked (and what she watched other food founders do right) to turn trade show moments into real momentum.

This episode is a follow-up to last week's CHFA prep episode, covering what Jacinta noticed in practice: how competitions and awards create a "double whammy" of publicity, why the quiet in-between moments at a trade show are often the best time to talk to retailers, and why having fun — and not working the booth alone — can lead to the deals you didn't see coming.

In this episode, Jacinta covers:

• Why applying to pitch competitions or launch pad showcases at a trade show gets you a "double whammy" of publicity — both from the pitch itself and from attendees who recognize you afterward
• How to use conference days (before the trade show floor opens) to have unhurried, no-agenda conversations with retailers
• Why scheduling meetings ahead of time — even just a week out — makes your trade show conversations more precise and effective
• Why having fun at your booth isn't a distraction from business — it's often what makes people want to engage with you
• Why founders shouldn't work the booth alone, and how having a second person frees you up for deeper conversations
• A real example of how casual, social conversations with ingredient suppliers can lead to advance pricing and sourcing information you wouldn't get in a formal meeting

Key Takeaways

• Competitions and showcases at trade shows aren't just for the prize — they generate publicity before, during, and after the show.
• The best retailer conversations often happen in the in-between moments, not during the rush of the trade show floor.
• Plan ahead, but don't lose the ability to be relaxed and approachable — some of the best deals happen in casual, unstructured conversations.

Links & Resources

• Free Webinar — "Retail Readiness Roadmap: What Buyers Need to See Before They Say Yes" (Thursday, Oct 8, 12–1pm EST): [Register Here]
• Get Your ETS Stage (Free Scale Up & Retail Ready Quiz): Take the Quiz here
• Apply to the Retail Readiness Program: Apply Here
• Companion episode: CHFA Trade Show Strategy — the exact questions to ask retailers, suppliers, and co-manufacturers (Episode 86)
• Download the CHFA Retail Readiness Checklist (Pocket + Worksheet): Download Checklist & Worksheet here
• For Weekly Tips and Strategies while building: Subscribe to the Emerging Food Business Newsletter

Next Steps If you're heading to your next trade show, start here:

1. Apply to a pitch competition or showcase if one's available — the exposure compounds even if you don't win.
2. Use conference days (before the floor opens) to approach retailers casually, without an agenda.
3. Schedule your must-have meetings ahead of time, even if it's just a week out.
4. Bring someone to the booth with you so you're free to have real conversations, not just manage traffic.

About Your Host Jacinta is a food scientist and founder mentor, coaching better-for-you food founders toward one million healthier products in retail.

Connect With Me

• Instagram: @jacintakemboim
• Website: https://camaresearch.com
• Email: info@camaresearch.com

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