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

Generational Food Fight

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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:

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