Last updated on September 12th, 2024 at 11:03 am
Market of Choice is marking its 45th anniversary this month with the return of its Product Experience Show (PES), a celebration of food, beverage and health and wellness products.
The free annual community event is set for Sept. 26 in Eugene, Oregon, where Market of Choice is headquartered. And 125 of the more than 250 Pacific Northwest makers, producers, farmers and ranchers showcased hail from Oregon.
“Market of Choice wouldn’t be where we are today without the incredible support of our customers and the many local producers who bring Oregon’s bounty to our doorsteps,” said Rick Wright, Market of Choice’s owner and CEO.
“The Product Experience Show is a joyful celebration of community – a chance for us all to come together, share our passion for quality food, connect with makers and discover new innovations.”
As a family-owned company with 11 stores throughout Oregon, Market of Choice partners with food banks throughout the state. In Lane County, where Market of Choice has four stores, the company’s food donations have provided more than one million meals to those in need since 2019.
In 2023 alone, Market of Choice donated the equivalent of 289,114 meals to FOOD For Lane County. And according to FOOD For Lane County Director of Development Rebecca Sprinson, “People ask for the types of food Market of Choice provides. From fresh fruits and vegetables to dairy products and packaged goods, the quality is unmatched.”
Product Experience Show
Set for noon-5 p.m. Sept. 26 at Venue 252 in downtown Eugene, the Produce Experience Show showcases an array of offerings, including food and beverages, whole health products, ranchers and farmers.
Attendees will have the opportunity to sample products, meet the makers behind the brands and learn more about food innovation happening in Oregon’s local communities. Market of Choice has partnered with FOOD For Lane County to offer entry to the show when attendees register for a free ticket and donate two cans of food at the entrance.
[RELATED: Market Of Choice Expands Private Release Wine Collection]
Makers from around the state
Market of Choice sources locally-made products for customers, keeping dollars in the community and bolstering the economic vitality of the region. Its MOJO program has been a catalyst for many Oregon makers, providing them with the tools, resources and platform to scale their businesses and reach a broader audience. These four Oregon makers from across the state have thrived through their partnerships with Market of Choice and involvement in the MOJO program.
De Casa Fine Foods: Based in Eugene, the company has been crafting all-natural, USDA Certified Organic salsas for more than 20 years, growing along with Market of Choice. According to President Lindsay Stubblefield, Market of Choice’s buyers have been instrumental in offering valuable counsel on determining what products to develop and launch. This collaboration has resulted in a 100 percent success rate in bringing new products to market, including several varieties of tortillas and new organic tortilla chips.
Tân Tân Foods: Located in Beaverton, the company offers Vietnamese sauces inspired by family recipes that are gluten-free and vegan – a first in the market. “To maintain the integrity of our brand, it’s essential we are placed in specialty locations where quality is prioritized,” said Lisa Tan, chief people officer. “The pricing at Market of Choice is so good, and it reflects the exceptional value and authenticity we deliver.”
Josie’s Best: Founder Josie Johnson was introduced to the MOJO program by the Bend Market of Choice store manager. From this experience, she gained guidance on packaging, distribution and inventory management. With the grocer’s support, Josie’s Best has quadrupled in size since 2018, bringing certified gluten-free and allergen-free baking mixes to those with dietary restrictions.
HYCH Hot Sauces: With Market of Choice’s distribution help, owners Catharine and Matt Kuerbis were able to reach their goal of getting HYCH into stores statewide. According to Catharine, what sets Market of Choice apart is the direct and personal access it is given and the organization’s proactive approach and encouragement. “Plus, they offer a direct avenue to engage with customers through demonstrations and events like the Product Experience Show.”
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