Ops Spotlight: Todd Hoffman, COO at Brightland

The Startup CPG Podcast · 9 Aug 2025 · 56m · Episode 180

What this episode covers

Todd Hoffman, COO at Brightland, discusses the operational challenges of scaling a modern CPG brand from direct-to-consumer into retail, specifically highlighting the recent acceptance of their everyday oil products into over 250 Whole Foods stores. He details his transition from investment banking to leading operations at Chloe's and Brightland, emphasizing the importance of co-manufacturer relationships, inventory planning, and knowing when to implement infrastructure like 3PLs or ERP systems. Hoffman shares tactical advice on navigating MOQ challenges, managing inventory levels, and reviewing co-man contracts to avoid pitfalls like unsustainable pricing traps and waste disputes.

Mentioned

Companies
Brightland, Chloe's, Whole Foods, Bonzo, UNFI, Costco, Chobani, Benefit Cosmetics, Ready Basics, FedEx, Meta
Tools
QuickBooks, Shopify

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