In this episode of Shelf Confidence, Mitch Goldstein, Director of Sales & Customer Success at Skyhawk, discusses how electronic remote monitoring is transforming food production. Learn about the industry's biggest challenges, the power of real-time data, and the future of IoT in ensuring safety, compliance, and efficiency. Tune in for insights at the intersection of technology and food safety! 

#ShelfConfidence #FoodSafety #IoT #SmartTech #FoodIndustry #RemoteMonitoring #Compliance #FoodProduction #RetailInnovation #TechInFood

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Jacob Long, Business Manager at MarketSquare Tech, joins Shelf Confidence to discuss how the DeliLabel app is streamlining food labeling processes. Learn how innovative solutions inspired by real-world challenges are helping businesses improve efficiency, reduce waste, and stay compliant. 

#ShelfConfidence #PFMAPodcast #FoodLabeling #TechInnovation #RetailSolutions #EfficiencyMatters #DeliLabel #MarketSquareTech #FoodIndustry #ComplianceMadeEasy

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In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we’re joined by Lauren Kennedy, VP of Customer Success at Upshop, to explore the evolving challenges in retail store operations. From sustainability goals to the rise of data-driven decision-making, we’ll discuss how the industry is adapting to meet the demands of modern consumers while staying competitive in a rapidly changing landscape. Tune in for expert insights on the future of retail operations! 

#ShelfConfidence #RetailInnovation #DataDrivenRetail #RetailTech #SustainabilityInRetail #RetailOperations #SmartRetail #Upshop #FutureOfRetail #RetailTrends

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In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we chat with John Wesolowski, President of PFMA member Milazzo Industries, about navigating the unique challenges of seasonal products and the growing demand for pet-friendly, eco-conscious solutions. From the story behind their signature Qik Joe ice melt to practical winter prep tips and insights on adapting to climate change, John shares how Milazzo Industries stays ahead of the curve while keeping safety and sustainability at the forefront.

Guests: John Wesolowski, President, Milazzo Inc./Qik Joe 

#ShelfConfidence #Podcast #WinterReady #QikJoe #MilazzoIndustries #IceMelt #PetSafe #EcoFriendly #WinterTips #ClimateResilience #Sustainability #RetailSolutions #PFMA

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In this episode of Shelf Confidence, Guy Yehiav, President of #PFMA member SmartSense by Digi, discusses how IoT technologies are transforming food safety across the supply chain. Learn how these tools enhance monitoring, empower employees, and address challenges for businesses of all sizes while keeping up with regulatory demands. 

Guests: Guy Yehiav, President of SmartSense by Digi 

#FoodSafety #IoT #SmartTech #RetailInnovation #SupplyChain #SmartSense #Digi #PFMA #Podcast #ShelfConfidence #FoodIndustry #TechSolutions #RegulatoryCompliance #EmployeeEmpowerment #BusinessGrowth #Automation ​

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Join us on Shelf Confidence as we chat with Mac Bolak, Founder and CEO of Panoptyc, about how AI is transforming theft prevention in micro markets. Explore the industry's challenges, the origins of Panoptyc, and the future of AI-driven retail solutions. 

Guests: Mac Bolak, Founder, CEO at Panoptyc 

#ShelfConfidence #AI #LocalFoodRetail #PAgrocers #CommunityEngagement #SustainableRetail #FoodIndustryInsights #GroceryLeaders #ShopLocal #IndustryInnovation #theftprevention #panoptyc

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In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we’re joined by a panel of Pennsylvania’s independent grocery leaders—Andrea Karns (Karns Quality Foods), Tom Charley (Charley Family Shop'N Save), and Seth Weaver (Weaver’s of Wellsville). Together, we discuss the unique challenges and opportunities facing independent grocers, from evolving consumer trends to sustainability and community engagement. Gain insights into how these local businesses thrive in a competitive landscape and shape the future of food retail. 

Guests: 
Andrea Karns, CEO, Karns Quality Foods 
Tom Charley, Owner, Charley Family Shop'N Save 
Seth Weaver, Vice President Sales Business Development, Weaver’s of Wellsville 


#ShelfConfidence #IndependentGrocers #LocalFoodRetail #PAgrocers #CommunityEngagement #SustainableRetail #FoodIndustryInsights #GroceryLeaders #ShopLocal #IndustryInnovation

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In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we are joined by Ben Kuethe Oaks, vice president of customer solutions and success, and Chris Thomas, vice president of public affairs, at Divert Inc. Divert is a leading impact technology company dedicated to eliminating food waste and transforming it into renewable energy. With over 6,600 partnerships across the U.S., Divert combines cutting-edge technologies with sustainable infrastructure to support environmental and social well-being.

Join the conversation as Ben and Chris discuss the environmental benefits of reducing food waste, the challenges in the field, and Divert’s new facility in Conewago Township, Pennsylvania. They share insights on how Divert's innovative approaches are transforming the food retail industry and contributing to the broader fight against food waste. Learn about the future of food waste reduction and practical advice for companies aiming to improve their environmental impact.

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In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we talk with Jon Norton, regional vice president of sales at ZeroEyes, to discuss a proactive solution for gun detection and situational awareness in the food and beverage industry. Norton explains how ZeroEyes uses AI software integrated with existing security cameras to identify visible firearms and quickly alert local law enforcement and retail staff. The conversation delves into the importance of layered security measures, the significant impact of gun violence on retail environments, and the critical role employees play in maintaining safety. Tune in to learn how advanced technology can help transform security from reactive to proactive, ensuring a safer shopping experience.

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In this episode of "Shelf Confidence," we sit down with Dave Simonetti of Wawa to explore the impactful practice of hiring employees with intellectual disabilities. Dave shares Wawa’s journey and success stories, highlighting the company's commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace. Discover how businesses can benefit from a diverse workforce and learn practical tips for creating an environment where every employee can thrive. Tune in for expert insights and actionable strategies to promote inclusivity in your organization.

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In this episode, we 

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In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and its latest update, FSMA 204. Join us as we sit down with Sally Robinson, vice president of strategic initiatives at Upshop, who shares her invaluable insights on how food retailers can effectively prepare for the new requirements.

Robinson breaks down the critical components of FSMA 204, explaining its significance and the impact it will have on the food industry. We'll explore  key changes introduced by this update, focusing on enhanced traceability requirements, record-keeping mandates, and new compliance deadlines.

Join us as we help you prepare for FSMA 204 and ensure the safety and trust of your food supply chain.

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When difficult situations occur it can be stressful and downright scary. Today we have Ready Training Online on the podcast to talk about their De-escalation Training that they will be offering to PFMA Members complementary for the next 90 days. You can find this training on our website on the resource tab under the Human/Labor Resources category: https://www.pfma.org/member-resources.html

Ready Training Online’s mission is to inspire and facilitate employee success through the delivery of engaging, customizable, and easy-to-manage online learning. We place high value on integrity, teamwork, and excellence while remaining client-focused in all they do. At the end of the day, their goal is to make your training impactful and easy.

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Join us as we talk to Pat O’Donnell, CEO of Shelfmark, and learn how they use data and AI technology to keep the shelves stocked. Shelfmark is a remote inventory management system powered by AI. 

Shelfmark was born after half a dozen rides on a DSD delivery truck and another half dozen days spent on a grocery store’s receiving dock. There was one common thread with everyone Shelfmark spoke to. They knew their work could be smoother. They just didn’t know how. Shelfmark set out to solve their problems, and we look forward to solving many more.

Learn more: shelfmark.com

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Join us on this episode of Shelf Confidence as we talk with the Founder of Old City Media Ray Sheehan about marketing trends and innovations. 

Old City Media is a national marketing agency that helps brands connect with targeted demographics through experiential marketing. This process is achieved through their robust network of clients and proven formula of brand integration. They also help companies leverage their assets to a brand looking for that all-important niche audience. With over 20 years of experience in this field, the Old City Media team has the ability to bridge the gap while saving you time and money.

If you are looking to really maximize your profits in 2024 you will not want to miss this episode. 

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The PA Lottery is one of PFMA’s partner organizations, and the last time we had Drew and Eric on the show in 2022, we talked about the Lottery’s mission and modernization, as well as the fact that back then you celebrated 50 years of providing a fun source of entertainment while helping seniors.

Join us on the podcast to learn about what has been happening at the PA Lottery since we last had them on the podcast in 2022 and more! 

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Feeding Pennsylvania is the statewide association of nine Feeding America-affiliated food banks. The mission of Feeding Pennsylvania is to promote and aid our member food banks in securing food and other resources to reduce hunger and food insecurity across the state and to provide a shared voice on the issues of hunger and food access within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

A program of Feeding Pennsylvania, The Mid-Atlantic Regional Cooperative (MARC) is a member-led regional produce cooperative of Feeding America Food Banks serving the Mid-Atlantic Region from Maine to Virginia.

The MARC provides solutions to farmers, wholesalers, and importers by offering an outlet for surplus product and distributing that excess to food banks throughout the region. This enables food banks to receive anywhere from 5-10 different commodities per load—enhancing the variety and value to their clients and allowing food banks a more dependable and efficient supply. The MARC can solve your excess production and inventory problems, while you help us ensure that more fresh produce gets into the homes of families facing hunger.

Joining us today is Feeding PA’s CEO, Julie Bancroft and Interim Executive Director for one of Feeding PA’s programs, Mid-Atlantic Regional Cooperative, Beth Hamilton. I am excited to have them on the podcast today to learn more about Feeding PA and their program Mid-Atlantic Regional Cooperative – MARC for short. 

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Meet Orontes Mediterranean Yogurt. Orontes Yogurt’s mission is to deliver healthy dairy products of the highest quality to everyone by offering various delicious options using locally sourced ingredients. Orontes products support local farmers and local businesses. 

Their motto: Better Milk, Better Yogurt, Better Health.

Murat Hokka, the owner of Orontes Yogurt, set his sights on changing the current unsatisfying yogurt in the market to a better one. First, he needed a better cow for better milk and yogurt. He went to cattle trading markets in his spare time. One day, he found the cow, a Jersey cow. The taste of the yogurt, with his special recipe, instantly gave him déjà vu. It was delicious with great consistency, no odor, no artificial ingredients, no additives, similar to what the little village boy in him once drank.

He founded his first yogurt company in May 2016 using Jersey cow milk with his special recipe. Soon, his yogurt was on the shelves of many grocery stores. As the demands surpassed his supply, he acquired a large production facility in Winfield, PA, to develop and distribute the new Orontes Mediterranean A2A2 Brand Yogurt and drinkable yogurt items.

We had the pleasure of speaking with Shayne Reed, the Brand Manager of Orontes Mediterranean Yogurt, and founder Murat Hokka. 

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In this episode, we explore the concept of customer decision-making and store selection, with a specific focus on the factors that can cause friction. 

Customer friction refers to anything that hinders a customer from completing a transaction with a specific retailer. On the Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association's Shelf Confidence podcast, Hayley Miller from Upside discusses effective strategies to overcome this issue. Specifically, we delve into the significant impact of personalization in creating memorable and tailored customer experiences.

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Do you have training and retention challenges?  Today on the podcast, we talked with Jeff Kahler, president and CEO at Ready Training Online. At Ready Training Online, their mission is to inspire and facilitate employee success by delivering engaging, customizable, and easy-to-manage online learning. They place a high value on integrity, teamwork, and excellence while remaining client-focused in all they do. At the end of the day, their goal is to make your training impactful and easy.

 In 2005, Jeff founded Ready Training Online out of a need to solve training and retention challenges in his own business. Today, Ready Training Online develops training using its in-house production team, MotionGlass Studios®, and delivers that training to employees through its learning management system, trainingGrid®.

Jeff hosts the Culture of Convenience podcast, a collaborative discussion between business leaders who share solutions to common business problems. And there are many free resources on his website for you to explore. Visit: https://readytrainingonline.com/online-learning/

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When food ends up in the landfill, It gets covered by other garbage and rots in an anaerobic state - meaning it doesn't get any oxygen while decomposing. This creates methane gas, a leading cause of greenhouse gases that make a noticeable gaping hole in the ozone layer and significantly contribute to climate change.

 Grocery stores are left with a surplus of food items reaching their best-before date daily. The timing of when food is deemed unsellable is based on store policy; it typically ranges from a few days to 1-2 weeks.

This is where PFMA member Flashfood comes in. Flashfood is a technology company with two products that help the grocer connect the consumer to these products. By selling this food at 50% off the retail price through Flashfood, grocers can recover costs (i.e., reduce shrink) and significantly reduce their carbon footprint.
 
 Consumers can take advantage of healthier food items like produce, meat, and prepared meals that they ordinarily deem too expensive. It's a #winwinwin for all!

Today's podcast, we talk to Nick Bertram, President and COO of Flashfood, to discuss food and, more importantly, food waste. 

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In 1991, Dri Mark Products became the original patent holder of the Counterfeit Detector Pen which rose to be the highest-selling, and most success­ful counterfeit detection product in the industry.Since then, Dri Mark has become a leader in the world of counterfeit detection, holding multiple patents for cutting edge detection technology. Dri Mark is also an American manufacturer, producing multiple products like their Detector Pen in their Long Island, NY facility. 

On the podcast is Dri Mark’s VP of Marketing and Sales, Mark Dobbs and Dri Mark’s Business Development Manager, Dan Owen as we discuss counterfeit detection …. Is it even necessary? And do consumers even use cash anymore?

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Mark Zimmerman, Founder of Revittle, spent a career in tech. After an exciting run with a Silicon Valley technology company and extensive time in Europe, Mark became enchanted with the foods in northern Italy, France, and Switzerland. During his travels, he realized the majority of Americans were settling for substandard cheese. While cheese was on every menu and in every grocery store, good cheese made the traditional European way was very hard to come by.

 Mark began a friendship with a local cheesemaker in rural Pennsylvania who convinced him that the cheese his heart yearned for could be created on u.s. soil. Revittle was born. Their mission is to reconnect all Americans with the taste, joy, and health benefits of all-natural cheese made the way it should be.

 On today's episode, Mark shares more about cheese from good for you convenience, why grass-fed, and how small suppliers approach the growing marketplace and compete. 

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Grocery stores are responsible for approximately 9% of the total energy consumed by commercial buildings in the U.S. Nicole Stika, head of the North American Sustainability Advisory team for World Kinect Energy, shares with PFMA insights on reducing carbon emissions and making sustainability a strategic priority. Learn how you might even aim to achieve net zero!

Learn more at https://www.world-kinect.com/ or email Nicole at nstika@world-kinect.com.  

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From small, specialty runs to international jobs, from new challenges to creative solutions, it's important for retailers to have a strong flexible packaging partner. Becky Smith, director of sales at Poly Craft Industries, joins PFMA's Shelf Confidence podcast to talk about how Poly Craft differentiates itself in the flexible packaging industry.

Learn more at https://polycraftind.com/ or email Becky at Becky@polycraftind.com.

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