So only the big, established foodservice manufacturers can get their new products into the market?
Actually, it’s usually a struggle for them as well! If it’s any consolation, even the most successful, well-respected companies have to pay the price to introduce new products successfully. Although they know the market, have the relationships, and operate a distribution network, they still face many of the same hurdles as the “newcomers.” So they invest in R&D to ensure that their products meet all of the needs of the operator AND distributor customers, including flavor, texture, handling, packaging, portion size, palletizing…oh, and cost. And these factors are just the “ante” for getting in the game – the product had better be unique and innovative as well!