The Buyer's Desk

This episode is brought to you by Chomps.

In this week's episode of The Buyer's Desk, SPINS Senior Retail Insights Manager Jim is joined by Matt Olson, INFRA Fresh Retail Strategist, to dive into the current state of organic produce.

From fresh food recalls to overall trust in the organic label, Matt and Jim discuss how independent retailers can leverage local supplier relationships and the organic label to foster trust with shoppers.

In this episode, Pat chats with Jeff D’entremont, Senior Vice President at Informa Markets, about event management in the natural foods sector. Jeff shares insights from his diverse career managing major events, from NFL stadium to natural products expos, and how to create passionate and loyal event attendees across a variety of sectors. Plus, get the inside scoop on Informa’s latest event innovation, Newtopia Now, and where the event is going next.

This episode is brought to you by Harken Sweets.

This week, we’re digging into a hefty topic: the Federal Trade Commission’s anti-trust case against Amazon. In this episode, Ron Knox, Senior Researcher and Policy Advocate at the Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR), explains Amazon’s “monopoly flywheel” of predatory business practices raising prices across the internet. He breaks down the background of the case, where it stands today, and what it could mean for independents in the struggle against growing monopoly power.

This episode is brought to you by PUR Gum.

This week, Pat is joined by Kristie Cerutti, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Impact at Ancient Nutrition. Kristie discusses how Ancient Nutrition works to continually evaluate and minimize its environmental impact through initiatives including Regenerative Organic Certification (ROC), farmer support, and packaging changes. She also shares strategies for independents to successfully sell ROC products, despite their premium price tag.

This episode is brought to you by Little Sesame Hummus.

Back-to-school season is here, and that means it’s time to start filling lunchboxes again! In this episode, Senior Category Manager Kim Route and SPINS Expert Jim Olson chat about top-performing brands across INFRA stores that are both kid-approved and better-for-you. They cover the natural swaps for all the lunchbox staples, from sandwiches to fruit snacks and meat sticks, plus convenient options for busy parents.

This episode is brought to you by Ice Cream for Bears.

This week, we're revisiting our Common Roots conversation with Vickie Bacon, Owner of Highland Nutrition Center in Highland, IL. Located in a small town with less than 10,000 people, Vickie shares how prioritizing community involvement has cemented Highland Nutrition Center as an important fixture in their community. Plus, learn more about how they’ve leveraged INFRA’s promotional programs to drive sales and deliver value to their customers.

This episode is brought to you by Poppi.

This week, Jessy Beckett Parr, Chief Program Officer at California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) joins Pat for an in-depth conversation about the transition to organic agriculture. She discusses challenges for farmers, explains the impacts of CCOF and federal programming, and explores the future of the organic. Plus, she offers concrete ways that buyers can propel the organic movement.

This week, Angela sits down with Amelia Rappaport, HR Director and Partner at Woodstock Farmers’ Market in Vermont, to explore the relationships, values, and intentional choices that have helped the store thrive for decades. Amelia shares how a commitment to inclusion and accessibility shapes everything from daily operations to the customer experience, and why truly believing in the products you carry is one of the most important qualities a buyer can bring to the role.

This episode is brought to you by Olipop.

It's Independent Retailer Month, and Pat and Jim are celebrating what makes independent retailers such a powerful force in their communities and across the industry. Tune in as they explore the unique balance between independence and interdependence, sharing how retailers can stay true to their values while leveraging the strength of collaboration. Plus, get an inside look at what to expect from the INFRA Annual Conference Tabletop Buying Show and hear about some of the emerging brands generating excitement on the show floor.

Join Pat on this week’s episode of The Buyer’s Desk for an inspiring conversation with Megan Westgate, Founder, CEO and Executive Director of the Non-GMO Project and the Food Integrity Collective. Megan unpacks how independent retailers have been major catalysts in improving food integrity since the early days of the natural foods movement, and how they can continue to lead as concerns around ultra-processed foods (UPFs) rise. Plus, she explores the importance of grounding movements in love, how eating connects us to the earth, and the how restoring the food system will cause positive ripple effects far beyo...

In this week’s episode, Angela and Jim chat about exciting changes to the SPINS platform. With their new industry-trained AI tool, SPINS Intelligence, retailers can get quick snapshots of data insights and broad overviews without getting in the weeds with the data. Plus, tune in for an in-depth conversation exploring AI’s environmental impacts and the necessity of both artificial and human intelligence in business decision-making.

This episode is brought to you by Better Sour.

This week on The Buyer’s Desk, we're diving into a hot topic; the "re-rise" of dairy. In recent years, we've seen plant-based losing popularity, replaced with traditional dairy products like premium butters, raw milk, and yogurts. What's going on with this category, and what does it mean for independent retailers? Jim and Promotional Programs Manager Jared get into it in this week's episode - from A2/A2 and protein dairy trends to merchandising opportunities.

This week, we’re replaying our conversation with Michele Marchetti, Deputy Director of The Cornucopia Institute. As a non-profit consumer education and watchdog organization, The Cornucopia Institute helps consumers understand the value of shopping independent and organic. Join us for a deep dive into their Independent Organic Brand List – a tool that makes it easier for retailers to help their consumers make informed choices about the food they buy.

This episode is brought to you by Recess.

Part 2 of our backstock conversation with natural foods icon and nutritionist Marion Nestle is here! Nestle shares her perspective on the importance of dietary variety and the enduring power of moderation in building healthy eating patterns. We also explore today’s trending topics, including the resurgence of beef tallow, the ongoing debate around seed oils, and what these shifts reveal about consumer behavior and food marketing.

Plus, we look ahead to the future of dietary guidelines and unpack the critical role grocery stores can play in shaping he...

This episode is brought to you by JonnyPops.

In this week's backstock episode, we’re revisiting the beginning of our two-part series with natural foods icon and nutritionist, Marion Nestle. Join us as we explore the complexities of nutrition science, the evolution of natural foods marketing, and the importance of empowering consumers to make informed choices. Plus, learn more about how independent retailers can play a role in educating their shoppers in an era of ultra-processed foods and conflicting messages when it comes to what makes a healthy diet.

This episode is brought to you by Chomps.

In this week’s backstock episode, we're running back our conversation with Coleen Noel, INFRA board member and the owner of Diane’s Natural Market and Sunflower Health Foods in FL. Hear more about her journey from corporate life into the heart of the natural foods industry! In this inspiring episode, Coleen shares what drew her to becoming a business owner and touches on the unique value that independents bring to customers and communities.

This episode is presented to you by JonnyPops.

In this week’s Buyers Desk Backstock episode, we’re going back into the archives to revisit our conversation with Mark Squire, Owner of Good Earth Natural Foods and long-time advocate for regenerative organic farming practices. He touches on his buying strategies, how he discerns quality product despite the marketing noise, how the organic landscape has evolved, and how Good Earth’s organic-first values take precedent in guiding all facets of their business.

This episode is brought to you by Poppi.

In this Buyer’s Desk Backstock episode, we’re revisiting Angela’s conversation with Kristine and Richard from Regenified, a certification company championing regenerative agriculture and animal welfare. They highlight how farmers, retailers, and consumers alike can build a more regenerative food system, and how Regenified creates an important starting point by allowing customers to make informed decisions about the animal products they buy.

Who is INFRA? This week, we’re taking things back to basics and reintroducing ourselves! Tune in for a brief refresher on INFRA’s 3 pillars; purchasing power, operational excellence, and peer support, and learn more about how we leverage the collective strength of our cooperative to open new doors for independent natural food retailers across the country.

From our cornerstone promotional programs to our hands-on retail consulting services to our countless peer networking opportunities, we’re on a mission to make sure that independent doesn’t mean alone.

This is a great introduction for retailers looking...

In this week’s episode, we’re discussing everything THC and hemp with our friends from Cornbread Hemp! Angela sits down with Co-Founder Jim Higdon and Natural Channel Director & Educator Andrea McGrath to explore Cornbread’s approach to education, how their commitment to organic certification has impacted their goal of creating the purest natural product, and how they navigate the complex hemp industry.  

This episode is brought to you by Chomps. 

In this week’s episode, the dynamic Kim and Jim combo dive into the state of hemp and THC in the natural foods space. THC waters and sparkling waters are up 68% compared to last year, and sales are up 105% across INFRA. And yet, cannabis seems to face an uphill battle. From the ups and downs of legal challenges to the ever-changing regulations, we’re looking forward to dissecting this complex and growing category.  

In this episode, SPINS Senior Retail Insights Manager Jim talks with Kristy Lewis, Founder of Quinn Snacks, about how Quinn is redefining the gluten-free pretzel category with a commitment to taste, food ethics, quality. From its early days as a clean microwavable popcorn brand to its current work with regenerative grains, Quinn continues to push boundaries, creating snacks that are as purposeful as they are craveable.

In this episode, Irene Rojas Stanbury shares her journey from founding a wellness beverage company to creating Season 34, a groundbreaking menopausal health brand. Discover how a personal health experience sparked a mission to create targeted, clinically validated products that address the diverse symptoms of menopause with an emphasis on intentional ingredient formulation. 

This episode is brought to you by Better Sour. 

In this week’s episode of The Buyer’s Desk, Kim interviews Betsy Frost, CEO of beverage brand Q Mixers. Betsy shares her journey through leadership transitions, innovations in premium mixers, and the future of beverage categories blending alcohol, N/A, and functional drinks. Whether you’re a buyer, brand owner, or beverage enthusiast, discover insights to navigate and capitalize on the current trends! 

This episode is brought to you by PUR. 

In this week’s episode, Angela joins Member Success Advisor Jesse Roque and Supply Agreement Assortment Lead Aprille Thurheimer to explore the rise of gendered and menopausal products on the shelf. From the evolution of gendered marketing to the cultural implications of body image and health trends, join us for an engaging discussion about DUDE Wipes, Luna Bars vs Clif Bars, and more. 

To kick off International Women’s Month, we’re diving into the data behind women-owned brands in this week’s episode of The Buyer’s Desk! 

Join SPINS expert Jim Olson and Senior Category Manager Kim Route as they explore this growing category (up 22% at INFRA stores compared to last year). From The Cycle’s period relief beverages to the vibrant flavors of Fly by Jing, explore the female founders that are reshaping the natural foods industry. 

Big news at The Buyer’s Desk! Angela is joined by a new voice at the mic—Pat Sheridan, the new co-host and CEO of INFRA. In this episode, Pat shares the story behind his journey to INFRA, what’s inspiring him most about the natural and independent grocery industry right now, and why community support is at the heart of everything INFRA does. 

They also dive into the power of storytelling through podcasting, swap favorite natural food finds, and talk about what’s next as INFRA moves toward an exciting milestone of nearly 400 members. Plus, Pat offers a preview o...

Part 2 of our two-part conversation with natural foods icon and nutritionist Marion Nestle is here! Nestle shares her perspective on the importance of dietary variety and the enduring power of moderation in building healthy eating patterns. We also explore today’s trending topics, including the resurgence of beef tallow, the ongoing debate around seed oils, and what these shifts reveal about consumer behavior and food marketing.

Plus, we look ahead to the future of dietary guidelines and unpack the critical role grocery stores can play in shaping healthier communities.

This episode is brought to you by Flax4Life. 

This week’s episode kicks off the beginning of our two-part series with natural foods icon and nutritionist, Marion Nestle. Join us as we explore the complexities of nutrition science, the evolution of natural foods marketing, and the importance of empowering consumers to make informed choices. Plus, learn more about how independent retailers can play a role in educating their shoppers in an era of ultra-processed foods and conflicting messages when it comes to what makes a healthy diet.  

This episode is brought to you by Graza.  

In our first Buyer's Desk episode of the month, Jim teams up with INFRA Category Manager Chris Madden and Promotional Programs Manager Jared Peterson to dive into the controversial world of seed oils. As more consumers start to actively avoid seed oils, we explore alternatives that are becoming more prevalent in natural CPG, including avocado and olive oils. Plus, learn more about how the animal fat category is expanding, from tallow to butter to ghee.  

Next week, get ready for the beginning of our two-part conversation with natural foods i...

In today’s episode, Angela and Category Manager Kim Route chat with Harry Ross, Global Commercial Director at Savyll Beverage Co. Learn more about the N/A beverage market, from the rise of functional ingredients to the importance of authenticity in marketing and branding to the challenges that N/A spirits face in an increasingly crowded market. Plus, hear insights from Harry about his extensive experience in the beverage industry, including his takes on current market trends and more.

In this episode of The Buyer’s Desk, Angela and Category Manager Kim Route chat with Jeff Klineman, Editor in Chief at BevNET, about the evolving landscape of the beverage industry. They explore the emergence of protein in the beverage space, the challenges of building a N/A set, and merchandising best practices for retailers. Stay tuned for this engaging discussion about the best in beverages! 

In this week’s episode, Director of Purchasing Nick Auzenne returns to the podcast to revisit our 2025 natural trend predictions. Did better-for-you sodas make the big splash we expected? How did whole-food veggie products perform in the market? Join us as we look back on what resonated, and what surprised us.  

Plus, stay tuned for big and exciting changes to The Buyer’s Desk throughout January—including new guest hosts and more. 

The Buyer’s Desk is back for another season with thoughtful conversations, fresh takes, and thought leadership in the natural foods industry. Here to kick us off, Jim is joined by Category Manager Kim Route and Promotional Programs Manager Jared Peterson to discuss what 2026 might have in store for the natural channel. From the impact that “MAHA” movement has had consumer health awareness, to the next evolution of the protein trend, to a new era of natural and minimally processed sweeteners, we’ll cover everything you need to know about 2026 trends. 

In our final Buyer's Desk Backstock episode of the year, we're revisiting the 2025 natural foods predictions we made back in late 2024. From better-for-you soda alternatives to innovative whole vegetable products, we'll look back on what resonated and what surprised us about last year's predictions.

See you in 2026 as we continue reflecting on industry trends and look ahead to the new year!

In this Buyer's Desk Backstock episode, we're showing independents a little extra love. Join Chris, Angela, and Jim as they explore what it means to be independent in today’s grocery landscape, from the relentless innovation of independent brands to the growing pressure of mergers and acquisitions on natural food retailers striving to maintain their product standards. 

In this Buyer's Desk Backstock episode, we're running back our conversation with Tero Isokauppila, Co-Founder of Four Sigmatic Coffee.

Hear from Tero about how Four Sigmatic helped to establish a thriving functional mushroom market and the vital role that mushrooms play in cultures across the world.

Plus, learn more about his book, "Santa Sold Shrooms," a children's book about the indigenous Sami origins of Santa Claus.

In this backstock episode of "The Buyer's Desk," we've revisiting our conversation about leadership with David Bronner, the Cosmic Engagement Officer of Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps. From capping executive salaries and ensuring ethical sourcing to launching initiatives like the Purpose Pledge, David leads with humility, collaboration, and a clear vision for a better world. His leadership sets new standards in zero waste, climate action, and ethical employment, all while keeping doing what’s right at the heart of every decision. 

Originally aired 3/13/23

In this Buyer's Desk Backstock episode, we're revisiting our conversation with Nicole Dawes, Founder & CEO of Nixie and Founder of Late July.

From her experiences growing up in a natural foods family to her advice for other women entrepreneurs to her belief in the power of independent retail, you won't want to miss these insights!

Originally aired 3/10/25

In this week’s backstock episode, we're revisiting Angela's conversation with Ryan Honeyman from Lift Economy, a self-proclaimed B-Corp “nerd” and expert who has guided numerous food and retail companies through the certification process. He touches on the three main components of B Corp certification, the recent shifts B Labs is making to its certification standards, and how creating more circularity in your business practices can lead to more efficient operations.