Hardware Podcasts

#223 - Startup CPG Innovation Sections at UNFI Selling Shows ft. Jubilee’s and Loopini Pizza

The Startup CPG Podcast · 18 Nov 2025 · 42m · Episode 219

What this episode covers

Ashley Waldman of Jubilee’s and Damiano Messineo of Loopini Pizza discuss their success at the Startup CPG Innovation Sections at UNFI Selling Shows, where they secured major distribution deals. Waldman explains how her strategic focus on specific DCs and high-ROI stores led to opening 85+ doors, while Messineo details how the show facilitated an immediate Wegmans account and entry into the UNFI Up Next program. Both founders emphasize the importance of authentic founder presence, rigorous pitch preparation, and leveraging the community for feedback and support to achieve rapid scaling and product-market fit in the CPG space.

Most relevant to

early-stage companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
UNFI, Wegmans, Whole Foods, Recoup, Epic Candy, Trader Joe's, Coca Cola, Kellogg's
Products
Jubilee’s, Loopini Pizza
Also
Beverage Forum, Expo West, Fancy Food Show, TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn

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