Todd Davis, a seasoned Kroger executive who’s been with the retailer for over 30 years, has a sharp instinct for what makes a brand not just survive, but soar.

As the category manager for natural, local, and multicultural brands at Kroger’s King Soopers and City Market banners, Todd has spent decades championing innovative products and the passionate founders behind them. But for him, it’s not just about the numbers – it’s about purpose, authenticity and impact.

In this episode, Todd shares his strategy for identifying standout brands and why he’s especially driven to support women-owned and BIPOC-owned businesses. He also discusses his hands-on, relationship-first mindset, and his belief in brands that are shaking up traditional retail by selling with heart, disrupting with intention and truly connecting with today’s consumer.

Show notes:

0:25: Interview: Todd Davis, Category Manager – Natural Foods/Local/Multi-Cultural, King Soopers/City Market – At Expo West 2025, Todd talks about his 30-year journey at Kroger, starting as a bagger and rising through the ranks, and his deep passion for both grocery innovation and hip-hop culture – including his title as the largest collector of hip-hop music in North America. He also talks about what motivates him daily, how he approaches leadership and growth, evaluating new brands at trade shows and the value of transparency, “HOT” conversations (honest, open, transparent), and emotional detachment when making buyer decisions. Todd also explains what a brand’s shippers need to tell its product story, the power of local programs like Colorado Proud and brand incubation opportunities, his advice for emerging brands preparing for a first meeting with retail buyers and how he evaluates brands without relying solely on personal preferences. He also highlights the development of a women-owned brands endcap in 30 stores, reveals why LinkedIn is his favorite platform for staying connected and talks about his belief in the "gentle push" toward greatness every day.

Brands in this episode: Bonfire Burritos, U-LUV Cookies, Wilde, Melting Forest, Saint James Tea, Kevin's Natural Foods, Rudi's, Super Coffee, Rise Brewing Co.

How do you cultivate a loyal following through organic growth and word-of-mouth buzz and without leaning on celebrity endorsements or splashy marketing campaigns? It’s the Komos way.

In this episode, Ria Soler, the director of education and global advocacy for luxury spirit brand Tequila Komos, talks about how the company has focused on organic growth, thoughtful distribution and authenticity to stand out in an increasingly crowded market.

Show notes:

0:45: Sports Drink? Tawchy’s. More Investment, But Where? Jean Luc Picard. National Day Day. – Tequila is still booming, but is “better for you”? Torchy’s Tacos is all over Austin. When will the chain come to Boston? Melissa drops the latest on Nombase, and we’ve got new speaker reveals for BevNET Live. FABID’s Q1 2025 report shows the funding freeze might be thawing, just not everywhere. National Pretzel Day – are you Team Soft or Team Crunchy? John is irritated. And, we’ve got new and notable products aplenty.

34:47: Interview: Ria Soler, Director of Education and Global Advocacy at Tequila Komos – At the Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival last month in The Bahamas, Ria talks about how Komos brings a winemaker’s finesse to the world of agave spirits, blending traditional tequila craftsmanship with a sophisticated, global outlook. She also offers a candid look into Komos’s multifaceted approach to brand building, how it embraces product placement in popular television shows from The White Lotus to The Real Housewives, and why “all press is good press” as the company expands visibility. Ria also talks about why at the heart of Komos’ growth is a strong focus on distributor relationships, where trust and mutual respect are essential – especially during its transition into Gallo’s network. She shares the value of ride-alongs with sales reps, even if it means braving a few dirty cars, and explains why her communication style is rooted in listening and adaptability.

Brands in this episode: Pretzelized, Unique Pretzels, Uncle Jerry’s, Auntie’s Annie, Quinn’s, El Nacho, Cafe Du Monde, Dude Wow, Zenjoy, MTN Dew, Whiteleaf Provisions, Super Coffee, La Colombe, Tequila Komos, Orin Swift, Fortaleza, Chartreuse, Don Julio, Avion, Aviation Gin

The latest installment of Elevator Talk features leaders from Corpse Reviver, MAA • TE, The NA Beverage Company and Big D Energy Drink.

Watch founders and CEOs introduce their brands and provide a recap of recent news and updates. This week’s special co-host is Courtney O’Brien, the founder of The Outlier Initiative, who shared her thoughts, questions and feedback with the participants. She is joined by Ray Latif, the editor and producer of the Taste Radio podcast.

Founders and CEOs of early stage food or beverage brands are invited to join future shows to pitch their products, discuss recent news and get feedback from industry experts. It is free to participate and interviews will be conducted remotely. Apply for a future episode of Elevator Talk.