CHICAGO — Foxtrot, billed as a “modern convenience store” operator, is launching its third annual Up & Comers Small Makers Awards program to elevate emerging brands. The retailer is seeking its “most innovative group of makers yet,” offering as examples “a funky flavored snack or a new idea for an elixir.”
Applications may be submitted by Oct. 30 at foxtrotco.com/upandcomers.
Awards include Hero Winner, Innovation Award, Classic Product Reimagined Award, Just Damn Good and Best Packaging. Winners will be selected in November and announced in January.
Launched in 2021, Foxtrot’s Up & Comers is a sourcing program spanning all categories within food and beverage that may be selected for placement on Foxtrot shelves. Eligible products are not currently sold in any major retailers or widely distributed in existing Foxtrot markets, which include Chicago, Washington, Dallas and Austin, Texas, and must have traction “proven by social media engagement, revenue growth and a growing customer base,” according to the company. Brands will be selected based on quality, packaging and storytelling.
Judges include the founders and leaders of Foxtrot, Deux, Balkan Bites, Bawi, Mama Teav’s Hot Garlic and Omsom.
Over the past two years through the Up & Comers program, Foxtrot has added 36 local and emerging brands to its shelves.Enjoying this content? Learn about more disruptive startups on the Food Entrepreneur page.
