In an exciting move to promote local culinary excellence, six Minnesota-based food and beverage enterprises are set to exhibit their products at the prestigious 2025 Winter Fancy Food Show in Las Vegas. Supported by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's (MDA) Make it Minnesota Program, these businesses aim to introduce a slice of Minnesota’s rich flavors to a global audience. The event, held from January 19 to 21, promises to be a vibrant platform for networking and market expansion.
Minnesota Flavors Shine Bright in Las Vegas
During the crisp winter days, the bustling city of Las Vegas will host the 2025 Winter Fancy Food Show, where the MDA's Minnesota Pavilion will once again take center stage. Six local brands have been selected to participate, each bringing unique offerings that highlight the diversity and quality of Minnesota’s food and beverage industry. These companies benefit from the MDA’s support through discounted booth space, promotional activities, and logistical assistance, all aimed at fostering economic growth within the state’s agriculture and food sectors.
The participating brands include Mixly Cocktail Co., known for its all-natural cocktail and mocktail mixers; Von Hanson’s Snacks, offering a variety of pretzel flavors and snack mixes; Riff’s Smokehouse, specializing in meat snacks and BBQ products; Maud Borup, presenting seasonal sweets and gourmet food gifts; Maazah, featuring innovative sauces and lentil dips; and Peace Coffee, serving 100% organic and fair-trade coffee sourced from small-scale cooperatives.
This trade show is not just an opportunity for these businesses to showcase their products but also a chance to forge valuable connections with major retailers, distributors, and buyers. Such partnerships can significantly boost the companies' market reach and contribute positively to Minnesota’s economy.
The Specialty Food Association organizes this annual event, which attracts thousands of specialty food artisans, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals. Over three days, attendees can sample new products, network, and engage in educational sessions designed to enhance business growth.
A Bright Future for Minnesota’s Food Industry
From a journalist’s perspective, the participation of these Minnesota brands in the Winter Fancy Food Show underscores the importance of supporting local industries. It highlights how government initiatives like the Make it Minnesota Program can play a crucial role in helping small businesses thrive on both national and international stages. This event not only showcases the innovation and quality of Minnesota’s food and beverage sector but also paves the way for future opportunities and collaborations, ultimately benefiting the local economy and creating jobs. As we witness these local brands stepping into the global spotlight, it’s clear that the future looks bright for Minnesota’s culinary landscape.