# #269 Retailer Spotlight: Mariano's, with Amanda Puck

- Show: [The Startup CPG Podcast](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast)
- Published: 2026-10-06
- Length: 40m
- Episode: 382
- Page: https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2026-10-06-269-retailer-spotlight-marianos-with-amanda-puck
- Listen: https://share.transistor.fm/s/9b5dca41

## Summary

Amanda Puck, Vice President of Communications and Brand Development for Roundy's (parent company of Mariano's and Metro Market), explains how the Midwest-focused grocery chain sources and supports local vendors. She details the 'What's Next at Mariano's' vendor search program, emphasizing the necessity of GS1 barcodes, established distributors, and grassroots in-store sampling for success. Puck highlights specific local brands like Ava's Pet Palace, Laos to Your House, and Caruso Provisions as examples of successful partnerships driven by strong storytelling and active marketing.

## Outline

1. Introduction: Amanda Puck and the Mariano's Brand
2. Midwest Food Trends: Cheese, Frozen Pizza, and GLP1 Impacts
3. Community Engagement and Chef Partnerships
4. The 'What's Next' Vendor Search Program and Success Stories
5. Core Requirements: GS1 Barcodes, Distributors, and Sampling
6. Current Category Opportunities and Mentorship Advice

## Topics

- [Retail, wholesale & distribution](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/retail-and-distribution)
- [Marketing & brand](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/marketing-and-brand)
- [Pricing, margins & unit economics](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/pricing-and-unit-economics)

## Most relevant to

large enterprises

## Mentioned

- Mariano's (company)
- Metro Market (company)
- Roundy's (company)
- Kroger (company)
- Ava's Pet Palace (product)
- Laos to Your House (product)
- Caruso Provisions (product)
- KeHE (company)
- Norman (company)
- JFI (company)
- Murray's Cheese (company)
- Niman Ranch (company)
- Miller Chicken (company)
- Eleven City Diner (company)
- Mi Tierra (product)
- Juliana's Pasta (product)

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## Citing this page

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