3 Trade Show Lessons I Brought Back From CHFA (And How You Can Use Them)

#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: Apply to a pitch competition or showcase if one's available — the exposure compounds even if you don't win. Use conference days (before the floor opens) to approach retailers casually, without an agenda. Schedule your must-have meetings ahead of time, even if it's just a week out. 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 #CHFA #tradeshow #retailreadiness #specialtyretail #groceryretail #retailbuyers #CPGfounder #foodentrepreneur #betterforyoubrand #foodcommercialization #tradeshowstrategy #foodfounderpodcast