The Buyer's Desk

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 “MA...

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...

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 sta...

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...

Originally aired 7/13/23   In this episode, we're revisiting our conversation with Roland Gahler, founder and owner of Natural Factors – in Roland’s first public interview – to share his story and philosophy on what it means to be independent. Hear more about Natural Factor’s stringent commitment to non-GMO, the importance of purity and efficacy in natural supplements, and Roland’s own reason...

Originally aired 5/14/24   In this Buyer’s Desk Backstock episode, we’re running back our conversation with Justin Gill, CEO of fan-favorite Bachan’s Japanese BBQ Sauce. Hear more about their unique cold-filling process, the heartwarming story behind the brand, and why it’s important not to sacrifice ingredient cost for quality, especially when it comes to preserving cultural authenticity.&nb...

In this episode of the Buyer's Desk, SPINS expert Jim Olson discusses the latest trends in the beverage industry with Matt Hatch, Senior Director of Sales at St. James Iced Tea. They explore the rise of ready-to-drink beverages, particularly iced tea, and how St. James is positioning itself as a cleaner, more sustainable option in the market. Plus—tune in for an exclusive taste testing of the...

This episode is brought to you by Edna’s Non-Alcoholic Cocktails.  In this episode, we dive into INFRA’s latest private label initiative—The Good Collective—a bold new wellness brand created exclusively for our independent retailer community. Hear from INFRA President & CEO Pat Sheridan and Wellness Strategist Sarah Super about the why behind the brand, the importance of differentiation i...

This episode is brought to you by Unreal.   This week on the show, we welcome Tyler Hemming, Director Sales Strategy, and Linda Stielstra, Director of Business Management, from CADIA, INFRA’s close partner in the private label space. They chat with Chris about strategies for product development, sourcing, sustainability, and current challenges in the supply chain. They also emphasis the...

This episode is brought to you by DeSoi.  In this episode, Chris chats with INFRA’s own Manager of Member Success, Kelly Miles. Hear from Kelly about the urgency of adopting private label strategies at a time where shoppers are looking for value in their shopping experience. They’ll also delve into the balance between private label and emerging brands, the spectrum of quality in private label...

This episode is brought to you by Mingle Mocktails.  This month, we’re tackling a topic that’s taken the natural grocery retail landscape by storm—private label. From Whole Food’s 365 line to Albertson’s O Organics, there’s no denying that private label products drive real customer value.  In this episode, Angela chats with SPINS Senior Retail Insights Manager Jim Olson to learn mor...

In this episode, Angela sits down with Brian and Kristie Hall, Co-Founders of True Grace, a family-owned supplement company. They delve into the company's mission-driven approach, focusing on True Grace's larger impact on human health, planet health, and the natural foods industry.   The Halls share their journey of launching during the COVID-19 pandemic, their commitment to sustainable...

This week on The Buyers Desk, Chris chats with a strong leader and watchdog in the organic space, Max Goldberg of Organic Insider. They'll delve into the complexities of maintaining organic standards—from the new era of hydroponics to the increasing number of fraudulent “organic” imports. Tune in for an insightful discussion on protecting the future of organic food!  Next week, we’re rounding...

Join Chris in this week’s episode as he delves into the world of organic integrity with Jeff Tkach, CEO of the Rodale Institute. Jeff shares his personal journey in the organic space—from overcoming childhood health challenges to becoming the leader of the Rodale Institute, a pioneer in regenerative organic agriculture since 1947. Learn more about the importance of consumer education, the role ret...

This episode is brought to you by Solaray. In this episode of The Buyer’s Desk, Angela chats with Shawna Rodgers, Donor Relations Manager for the CCOF Foundation. Shawna shares her own personal journey with food as medicine, the evolution of the CCOF Foundation, and the critical role of organic farming in shaping a more ethical and sustainable food system. Learn more about the challenges new...

This episode is brought to you by Rishi Tea. In this episode of The Buyer’s Desk, Chris, Angela, and Jim dive into the dynamic world of organic. Discover how consumer demand is driving innovation, the rise of organic options in kid-focused categories, and the role of private labels in expanding organic accessibility. Plus, learn more about how INFRA Retailers are leading the charge in the natural...

This episode is brought to you by Rishi Tea.  In this episode of The Buyers Desk, we’re bringing you a fascinating re-run from our member-driven podcast – Common Roots! INFRA Board Member Drew Alexander shares his own leadership journey from dishwasher to store owner of Cornucopia Natural Foods in Sayville, NY. The conversation also explores the strategies he uses to support employee longevit...

In this episode of "The Buyer's Desk," hosts Chris Sorensen and Angela Bozo dive into a refreshing take on 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 leade...

This episode is brought to you by Mezcla.  This week, we take our leadership focus to a new level as Chris talks to Jen Dary from Plucky, a leadership coaching firm, about the complexities of being a leader. Jen shares real-world insights on what it means to lead with intention, how to manage with empathy, and why connection, not control, is the secret of strong leadership. Whether you're a s...

This week, we’re kicking off our month-long focus on leadership with a thoughtful conversation featuring Michele Lamppa, INFRA’s Director of People and Culture. Together, we explore why leadership is more than a role; it is a force that shapes company culture, drives change, and connects people. Michele shares insights on the power of diverse leadership styles and how, when grounded in shared valu...

To wrap up our celebration month of independents month, we’re joined by Seth Goldman, Co-Founder of Just Ice Tea (previously Honest Tea), for a conversation about what it means to build a business rooted in justice, purpose, and integrity. From the fast-moving launch of Just Ice Tea to the challenges of growing a mission-driven brand, Seth shares what it takes to stay independent - and why that in...

This episode is brought to you by Bachan's . This week, we sit down with Coleen Noel, INFRA’s newest board member and the owner of Diane’s Natural Market and Sunflower Health Foods in FL, to hear 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...