CHFA or Trade Show Survival Guide: What to Ask Retailers, Ingredient Suppliers & Co-Mans (So You Don't Waste 6 Months)

#86 If you're heading to CHFA, this episode gives you the exact questions to ask so you leave with requirements, next steps, and follow-ups—not just samples and business cards. This episode covers CHFA trade show strategy for better-for-you CPG founders, including retailer conversations, co-manufacturer vetting, shelf life documentation, labeling compliance, and retail readiness. In this episode, Jacinta covers: How to approach retailers at CHFA without pitching too soon (collect requirements first) The most important questions to ask about shelf life expectations + documentation What to ask ingredient suppliers so scaling doesn't break your product (specs, CoAs, variability, substitutions) What to ask co-manufacturers so you don't sign a "yes" that falls apart later (allergens, documentation, MOQs, onboarding) A simple 48-hour follow-up system to turn CHFA conversations into real momentum Key Takeaways Don't pitch for validation—collect requirements. One conversation = one requirement + one next step + one follow-up date. Retailers move faster when you make follow-up easy to evaluate. Links & Resources Get Your ETS Stage (Free Scale Up & Retail Ready Quiz): {Take the Quiz here} Apply to the Retail Readiness Program (Deadline: Sept 30): {Apply Here} Companion episode: Inside CHFA Now Toronto: {Listen to the Episode here} 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 Questions Mentioned in the Episode Retailers What does a "yes" look like in this category right now? What's the #1 reason you pass on emerging brands? What proof matters most before you bring a new product in? What are your shelf life expectations—and what documentation do you want? What is your new item process + timeline (and who decides)? If I'm not ready today, what would you need to see in 60–90 days? When I follow up, what should I include so it's easy to evaluate? Ingredient Suppliers Can you send the spec sheet + CoA format? What changes when volume scales (sourcing/processing/grade)? What variability should I expect (lot/season)? What are lead times and what causes delays? What is your substitution policy (and notification process)? Co-Mans / Manufacturers What similar products do you run (process/allergens/packaging)? How do you handle allergens + changeovers? What documentation do you provide (traceability, batch records, deviations)? What changes at year two (MOQs, pricing, scheduling priority)? What does onboarding look like? Next Steps If CHFA is pushing you toward retail, start here: Take the quiz to get your ETS stage Use the checklist on the show floor If you want high-touch support, apply by Sept 30 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 #shelflifetesting # comanufacturer