Emerging Gourmet Delights Unveiled Prior to Exhibition
The Specialty Food Association (SFA) has announced the first-ever roster of Fancy Food Rising Stars for 2025, a new initiative aimed at honouring emerging leaders in the specialty food industry who are 35 years old or younger.
The programme, which was launched by the SFA this year, is specifically designed for individuals who demonstrate innovation, leadership, and a commitment to advancing the industry, whether as entrepreneurs, buyers, or business developers.
The SFA, the leading trade association for the $207 billion specialty food industry, representing over 4,000 businesses worldwide, introduced the Rising Stars programme in parallel with its flagship event, the Summer Fancy Food Show, held at New York’s Javits Center.
The 2025 Summer Fancy Food Show will take place from June 29 to July 1, showcasing thousands of specialty food products from domestic and international exhibitors. The Rising Stars will receive complimentary badges to the event, providing them with a unique opportunity to network and learn from industry leaders.
The SFA will also assist the Rising Stars in finding new products, leaning into the trade show experience, and creating connections. This support is intended to help these emerging leaders further their careers and contribute to the growth of the specialty food industry.
The inaugural class of Fancy Food Rising Stars includes:
* Edwin Asmal, Sanniti * Paige Flanagan, Three Rivers Market Co-op * Aaliyah Walkes, Clifton Meats Ltd. * Roberto Scalia, Associated Supermarket * Erika Fermin, Community Capital Bank * Lily Feldman, Gopuff * Robbie Patterson, Asto Consumer Partners * Roberto Pizzoli, il Gigante * Louise Ainsman, Target * Mollye Santulli, Springdale Ventures * Martina Pirisi, EATALY USA * Anna Whiteman, Coefficient Capital * Jessie Kimsey, Misfits Market * Becca DeLara, Salad and Go
The final selections for the Fancy Food Rising Stars roster were made by the SFA. Nominations for the programme were sought across the buying and business-financing communities.
The Fancy Food Rising Stars programme fills a gap in industry recognition, specifically for younger professionals, and underscores the SFA’s commitment to nurturing the future of the specialty food marketplace. The programme is positioned as a catalyst for growth, collaboration, and recognition in the dynamic specialty food sector.
The sofi Awards, which have honoured excellence in specialty food and beverage annually since 1972, are also owned and operated by the SFA. The association's other events include the Winter FancyFaire.
[1] Specialty Food Association (2025). Fancy Food Rising Stars. Retrieved from https://www.specialtyfood.com/fancy-food-show/rising-stars [2] Specialty Food Association (2025). Summer Fancy Food Show. Retrieved from https://www.specialtyfood.com/fancy-food-show/summer-show [3] Specialty Food Association (2025). sofi Awards. Retrieved from https://www.specialtyfood.com/sofi-awards [4] Specialty Food Association (2025). Winter FancyFaire. Retrieved from https://www.specialtyfood.com/winter-fancyfaire
- The Fancy Food Rising Stars, selected by the Specialty Food Association, represent innovative and forward-thinking individuals from various sectors of the industry, including food-and-drink, technology, and lifestyle, who are shaping the future of the $207 billion specialty food marketplace.
- During the 2025 Summer Fancy Food Show, these Rising Stars will have the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, explore new products, and expand their networks, reflecting the SFA's ongoing commitment to cultivating the growth of the specialty food sector, encompassing aspects such as food-and-drink, technology, and lifestyle.
