Welcome back to Saturday Pie -
We are kicking off with a family store, and then everything from food innovation and AI to the ongoing consolidation battles in the food industry, all while shining a light on the importance of community-driven food systems. Check in on how Journey Foods’ latest strides in using AI to revolutionize food development and supply chains, as well as how these advancements are contributing to a healthier, more sustainable future.
So, the news of PepsiCo’s recent $1.2 billion acquisition of Siete Foods is stirring mixed reactions, particularly among health-conscious consumers and minority communities. As one Twitter user put it: "Corporate ownership doesn’t care about our culture—Siete going to PepsiCo feels like a step backward for authenticity." See our dive into the broader implications of brand consolidation in both the food and farming industries, and explore how smaller, hyperlocal grocery stores could provide a much-needed solution to an increasingly corporate food system.
At Climate Week, our team was was thrilled to connect with so many leaders and innovators. A huge thank you to all who joined us, and to those who invited us, to discuss climate action and sustainable food futures. And check below on how you can support Asheville and more of the Southeast's recovery to Hurrican Helene.
As we look ahead, we’re excited to announce that we’ll be attending Groceryshop, the largest conference on food grocery retail, taking place in Las Vegas from October 7-9. This event will bring together thought leaders from across the retail and grocery industry, focusing on trends, innovation, and the future of food. Please let me know if you'd like to link.
Here’s to continued growth, support, and collaboration.
Let’s dive in!
Stay well 🌱
Riana
How people are feeling PepsiCo Acquires Siete Foods and the Fight for Hyperlocal Stores
It's Hispanic Heritage month and many of us were a little shocked by the billion-dollar win. We all had hopes for the beloved Garza Family and Austin's Own - Siete Foods. They were supposed to be the next big food family, but is the world going to allow for a generational Mars or Walton story anymore? PepsiCo’s $1.2 billion acquisition of Siete Foods, a beloved Mexican-American brand, has stirred up concerns about small, authentic businesses being absorbed by corporate giants. The move adds Siete's grain-free tortillas, salsas, and snacks to PepsiCo's portfolio, but consumers and health-conscious communities are wary. As one tweet put it, "Siete’s values won’t survive corporate ownership—it’s a loss for authentic food."
This consolidation mirrors a larger trend in the food and farming sectors. In fact, 10 companies now control over 80% of U.S. grocery brands, and just 4 firms dominate 66% of global agricultural markets. These mergers often reduce competition, drive prices up, and lead to less diversity in product offerings.
Meanwhile, smaller solutions, like hyperlocal grocery stores, offer an alternative by supporting local farmers and promoting sustainability. But as major chains like Kroger and Albertsons push for consolidation, the fight for resilient, community-driven food systems becomes more urgent.
Here's a sentiment roundup:
What are we building?
The world's most actionable ingredient database.
At Journey Foods, we're at the forefront of using artificial intelligence to transform the way food is manufactured, researched, and discovered. Our innovative AI-powered solutions are driving the future of food product development, ensuring more affordable, healthier, and more sustainable choices for everyone. Here are some insights into how we’re making an impact:
Stay tuned as we continue to build healthier, smarter food systems for the future!
Having spent years in North Carolina, where I immersed myself in the rich agricultural heritage of the region, I hold a special place in my heart for Asheville. My grandfather's family hails from the Blue Ridge Mountains of West Virginia and North Carolina, where I learned about the art of moonshine and encountered some of the best people you could ever meet. This region is truly a gem, celebrated for its vibrant farm-to-table restaurants, beautiful wineries, and a deep-rooted sense of community. A lot of Journey Foods team over the years, and current members, hail from UNC and Duke. We are a blue team and this message could not be skipped.
In the wake of the recent hurricane, World Central Kitchen has once again demonstrated its commitment to providing immediate relief. As one of the first organizations on the ground in Asheville, they are actively working to feed those affected by the storm, ensuring that families have access to warm, nutritious meals during this challenging time.
“We believe that food is a powerful tool for healing,” said Chef José Andrés, the founder of World Central Kitchen. Their rapid deployment of resources and volunteers highlights the importance of community support in times of crisis. By mobilizing local chefs and restaurants, they are not only delivering meals but also supporting the local economy and bringing hope to those in need.
As we navigate these trying times, let us remember the vital role organizations like World Central Kitchen play in disaster relief, helping to restore dignity and nourishment to those affected by the hurricane. Thank you to all who are supporting this important work!
A Challenge:
How have you supported or curbed the direct effects of climate this week?
Here are more organizations to support:
Organizations to Support
Your support is crucial as communities begin to recover from the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Thank you for your generosity!
Bananas scare reneged! We averted a significant supply chain disruptions due to this week's dockworkers' strike with the International Longshoremen’s Association. This strike would have affected 75% of bananas imported to the U.S., representing 3.8 million metric tons annually and over 43% of agricultural imports and causing an economic fallout of over $1.1 billion a day, means perishable items like bananas, shrimp, tomatoes, and others would quickly become scarce. Phew!
As we explore AI's transformative impact on the future of work, we spent time in Cambridge at EmTech with some of the world's best leaders and predictors of AI impact. The singularity is near and the change in jobs is predicted to happen as soon as two years from now. These predictions underscore the urgent need for ethical practices and responsible data usage in AI deployment to enhance supply chain resilience. As we anticipate the creation of 97 million new roles by 2025, it’s crucial to focus on building inclusive and adaptable economies through continuous learning and skill development. By proactively addressing these challenges, we can work toward a more resilient economy for all. Perhaps now is the perfect time to get creative and try building your own futuristic, shipping container grocery store.
Eat well.
