Italian manufacturers are continuing to introduce new organic and natural foods for the United States as consumer demand for healthier nutrition remains strong. Jason Martinolich, VP of Natural, Organic, Specialty and Private Brands at Rouses Markets, one of the leading grocery stores in the United States, spoke with Italianfood.net as he was touring the Italian pavilion at the PLMA show, the major trade event for the private label industry taking place in Chicago (November 17-19).
“I think there is an opportunity for us here, not only in branded items, but also private label,” said Martinolich. “Italian manufacturers have a lot of cutting-edge, new items. These of course captured my interest since I oversee the organic and specialty food for Rouses.“
Rouses Markets is one of the largest independent grocers in the United States and one of the fastest-growing family-owned American companies. The company has 64 stores and 7,000 team members serving customers across three states: Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.
A few years ago, in collaboration with the Italian Trade Agency, Rouses Markets launched a logo – Delizioso Product of Italy – to in identify certified authentic Italian products personally chosen by the Rouses family and it’s buyers on buying trips to Italy.