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Emerging Gourmet Products Unveiled Prior to Exhibition

Specialty Field Association announces the debut of a selection of rising figures in the specialty industry

Anticipated Gastronomic Talents Unveiled Prior to Exhibition
Anticipated Gastronomic Talents Unveiled Prior to Exhibition

Emerging Gourmet Products Unveiled Prior to Exhibition

Specialty Food Association Announces 2025 Fancy Food Rising Stars

The Specialty Food Association (SFA) has announced the inaugural roster for its Fancy Food Rising Stars program, a initiative designed to honour emerging leaders in the specialty food industry aged 35 and under. The program has been running since 1972, recognising excellence in specialty food and beverage annually.

The SFA is responsible for selecting the Fancy Food Rising Stars, and this year's recipients include a diverse group of individuals from various sectors of the industry. Among them are Louise Ainsman from Target, Edwin Asmal from Sanniti, Becca DeLara from Salad and Go, and Paige Flanagan from Three Rivers Market Co-op, who has been confirmed as a Rising Star by the SFA.

The Fancy Food Rising Stars will receive a number of benefits through the SFA's programs and events. The program provides recognition and visibility within the specialty food industry, distinguishing these individuals as emerging leaders. Being part of this community offers access to networking opportunities at prominent industry events hosted by SFA, such as the Summer Fancy Food Show and Winter FancyFaire. These events gather thousands of specialty food buyers, press, investors, and makers from around the world.

Participants in the Fancy Food Rising Stars program also gain exposure to a values-aligned community focused on sustainability, transparency, and community impact, enhancing their professional credibility and connections. SFA events offer Rising Stars and associated brands the chance to connect with a large, engaged audience actively seeking new products, helping them grow their influence and reach in the specialty food marketplace.

The 2025 Summer Fancy Food Show is scheduled to take place in New York City from June 29-July 1, and the Fancy Food Rising Stars will receive complimentary badges to attend the event. The show offers educational programming, networking opportunities, and showcases thousands of specialty food products from domestic and international exhibitors.

In addition to the Fancy Food Rising Stars program, the SFA is a not-for-profit trade association of the $207 billion specialty food industry. The organisation also runs the recently created Winter FancyFaire event. Mary Beth Vultee has recently been appointed as the new SVP, Member Relations at the SFA.

The Fancy Food Rising Stars program is just one example of the SFA's efforts to support and grow the specialty food industry. INFRA, in partnership with GFI, is also helping independent grocers build subcategory sales for specialty food offerings. With initiatives like these, the SFA continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of the specialty food industry.

  1. The Fancy Food Rising Stars, recognized by the Specialty Food Association (SFA), will benefit from various programs and events, including the Summer Fancy Food Show and Winter FancyFaire, which attract specialty food buyers, press, investors, and makers from around the world.
  2. The Specialty Food Association (SFA), responsible for the Fancy Food Rising Stars program, also supports independent grocers through initiatives like INFRA in partnership with GFI, aiming to boost subcategory sales for specialty food offerings, thereby shaping the future of the specialty food industry.

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