3 Rapid Retail Questions with Toni Covington, Co-Founder of Oktane Energy

In this Retail Readiness Round of Shelf Talks, I put Toni Covington in the hot seat for three rapid-fire questions every product-based founder needs to hear.

If you’re preparing to pitch your first retail buyer, this segment is key for some major gems.

Toni shares why understanding your consumer is non-negotiable and how something as simple as visualizing your product on a specific retailer’s shelf (and putting that image directly into your pitch deck) can elevate your buyer presentation instantly.

We also talk about the trade shows and communities that actually moved the needle for Oktane, including the AATAC trade convention, which helped them break into C-stores and expand distribution through powerful community connections.

And when asked to finish the sentence, “Getting on shelf changed my business because…” her answer says everything about what retail placement really does for a founder’s confidence.

If you’re an emerging CPG brand looking to get retail ready, refine your pitch, and build momentum, this round is packed with practical insight you can apply immediately.

Press play and take notes.