Question

Topic: Strategy

How To Launch New Food Product - Ideas Please

Posted by Anonymous on 12/30/2011 at 9:19 PM ET 125 Points
I have a great product and some other ideas on how to develop it. The food product is based on a traditional food but has flavors that are (radically?) different. This food item is usually eaten only once a year (Christmas) however, though no one has done this, it is really a wonderful R.T.E. convenience food (think tamales). I have already tried it out at a local farmers market and have gotten some good responses. I DO NOT intend to seek any financial loans from Banks etc. The limited money I have will be used to purchase equipment and set up a kitchen to prepare the product. I do not have the money needed for capital investment in a bricks and mortar shop. I am thinking some sort of pop up/ open air and mobile kiosk/restaurant etc. to get around town (small town) as I already have a van. If you think this is the best way then how can I make it interesting enough for people to come and BUY not just sample. Also, I'd like to get my product in the local coffee shop chain - what is the best way to approach them? What about bars and restaurants? Would it make sense to ask a few of them to open a product bar? Thanks.
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RESPONSES

  • Posted by CarolBlaha on 12/31/2011 at 7:59 AM Member
    You do know you do not have to buy equip and set up a kitchen. Many places will rent out their commercial kitchen to someone like you starting out.

    I like the idea of approaching a coffee shop, restaurant to feature your product. This will give you a good test. Best way to approach them is to toodle in with some samples, sit down and have a conversation.
  • Posted by CarolBlaha on 1/4/2012 at 10:13 AM Accepted
    I would contact them one by one. Especially in the start up phase, this individual feed back will help you.

    With free samples, they will bite. If you commit to a tasting like Carnival, try one small party. At this stage, just test, test and test.

    While there may not be any commercial kitchens per se, there still may be kitchens to rent. Look for spaces with kitchens that are not used full time, like event centers. I know of people who've started using a VFW kitchen, another a wedding chapel with kitchen.

    If you have to invest, with so many restaurant failures, that equipment is available used at a good price.
  • Posted by Jay Hamilton-Roth on 1/4/2012 at 10:44 AM Accepted
    Can you team up with an existing caterer (who already has a kitchen)? Have them offer your food for special parties to get some "buzz" going. Can you sell your products to local school children at lunchtime (to get "buzz" going)? What about at a pushcart at local parks/other family gathering locations?
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