Alexis Tejeda who pitched Runamok Bee Keeper’s Cut Autumn Blossom Raw Honey to a panel of judges including two buyers and a brand expert, bested four other SFA member “pitchers” as the audience favorite, during last week’s Fast Pitch Friday competition, part of the SFA’s Fancy Food 24/7 digital event.
The other contestants were Noah Bleich of The TeaBook, maker of collectible teas, Carol Ann Carrington of Kickerfeast fruit- and vegetable-based pancake and waffle mix, Michelle Williamson of Mel’s Toffee, and Ariel Shao of Coaslink Corp.'s MushGarden Shiitake Mushroom Chips.
“Runamok Bee Keeper’s Cut Autumn Blossom Raw Honey is the signature product in our new line of raw varietal, infused and hot honeys sourced from a sustainably managed family-run aviary in upstate New York,” said Tejeda, western regional sales manager for the company. “This is the most nuanced, truly raw, highest-quality honey we found throughout the U.S. after two years of searching. It’s a tasting honey, good for all the traditional uses, although ultimately, you’ll want to just dip your spoon in and enjoy the creamy mouthfeel and floral notes.”
Judge Hunter Fike, category manager for cheese and charcuterie at Di Bruno Bros., liked that Tejeda mentioned that the product has a competitive price point and suggested that she include in future pitches that honey pairs well with cheese and include specific pairing suggestions.
Ian Kelleher, co-founder of Peeled Snacks, said the part of the pitch that stuck out to him was “we searched for this honey,” but he would’ve liked for Tejeda to elaborate more on “who is the ‘we,’ and why were they looking. What problem were you looking to solve?”
Kate Harper, chief brand curator for Hive said she’s already familiar with the brand but she’d love to know if they’ll be sold in gift sets with a couple of other flavors, as it would make for a great holiday gift.
Tejeda has won a promotional prize packaged from the SFA including an interview on Instagram Live, coverage on SFA News Daily, and spot on the SFA’s forthcoming podcast.
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