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Showcasing the Impact of Food Export’s Branded Program: Featured Suppliers 

Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast are excited to introduce two new Branded Program segments showcasing the efforts of two Featured Suppliers. This initiative highlights the experiences of both new and seasoned exporters who have benefited from Food Export’s Branded Program, providing valuable insights for small- and medium- sized U.S. food and agricultural companies looking to expand their global footprint. 

The Branded Program provides up to 50% cost reimbursement for a wide variety of international marketing activities, helping U.S. companies increase the visibility of their brands internationally. By featuring the voices of real Food Export suppliers, we offer unique perspectives on how the program can help businesses at different stages of their export journey.  

The first two interviews in this segment feature Cooper Street Snacks, a Midwest supplier that is newer to the program, and Bassetts Ice Cream, a Northeast supplier that has been participating in the Branded Program since 2009.  

We asked both suppliers the following questions:  

  • What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when starting the Branded Program? 
  • How has the Branded Program impacted your company, and do you foresee further growth using this program? 
  • If you could offer advice to a new Branded Program participant, what would it be? 

Together, these Featured Suppliers provide a well-rounded view of how the Branded Program serves businesses at varying levels of experience, and how your use of program funds can evolve as your company grows. Whether you need support to break into an international market or are looking to scale and refine your global strategy, the Branded Program can help you on the next step of your exporting journey.  

Bassetts Ice Cream, America’s oldest ice cream brand, is a family-owned and operated business that has been making high-quality ice cream since 1861. That’s over 160 years of experience and tradition in every scoop. In November, Food Export-Northeast welcomed President Alex Bassett Strange and Vice-President of Sales & Marketing Brian Bebee to their Philadelphia office to film the interview. 
Founded in 2011, Cooper Street Cookies, based in Michigan, are made from an “original 100-year-old cookie recipe based on quality ingredients with no nuts, no dairy, and nothing artificial and are delighting cookie lovers of all ages.” The Food Export team interviewed CEO, Co-Founder, and President Max Surnow at the Summer in the Cities Buyers Mission in July. 

Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast aim to showcase the impact of the Branded Program and inspire other U.S. companies to explore the potential of exporting. These interviews are available on the Branded Program page, Branded Program Resources page, and YouTube channel, offering an insider look into the benefits of the program from the perspectives of suppliers who have navigated the challenges and reaped the rewards. Stay tuned for more supplier features and insights into how Food Export is helping companies grow their global presence. 

 

 

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Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast reserve the right to deny services to any firm or individual which, in the sole opinion of Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast, does not comply with FAS, MAP or Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast regulations or policies, or otherwise offer the best opportunity to achieve its mission of increasing food and agricultural exports. Submission of any false or misleading information may be grounds for rejection or subsequent revocation of any application or participation. Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast are equal opportunity employers and providers.