Supply Chain: Meeting Demand in a Fast-Growing Market with Kristi Kingery, Senior Vice President, Supply Chain at Tropical Smoothie Cafe

Farm to Fork: The Innovators with David Maloni

Welcome back to the show! Today's guest innovator is Kristi Kingery, a powerhouse in supply chain management. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Kristi is currently the Senior Vice President of Supply Chain at Tropical Smoothie Cafe and the chair of the National Restaurant Association Supply Chain Expert Exchange.

In this episode, Kristi delves into the intricacies of managing the supply chain for a rapidly expanding brand like Tropical Smoothie. From navigating the challenges of growth to unpacking the driving forces behind the brand's remarkable expansion from 450 units pre-COVID to an impressive 1400 units today, light is shed on the strategies that have propelled Tropical Smoothie's success, especially among a younger customer base.We also explore the increasing prominence of women in supply chain leadership roles and the pivotal role played by organizations like the National Restaurant Association Supply Chain Group in fostering industry education and collaboration. Plus, we gain exclusive insights into her role with the National Restaurant Association and get a sneak peek into the upcoming conference, where networking and education take center stage.

Don't miss out on this engaging discussion as Kristi shares her vision for the future of the supply chain industry and leaves us with valuable takeaways that will resonate long after the episode concludes.

Once again, thank you for tuning in to what promises to be an insightful discussion.
Connect With the Host:

David Maloni’s LinkedIn
Connect With Our Guest:

Kristi Kingery’s LinkedIn

Relevant Assets for this episode:

NRA Supply Chain Spring Conference
NRA Show
Connect with Datum FS:

https://datumfs.com/

Timestamps

02:42 - Meet Kristi Kingery And Explore Her Journey In The Food Service Supply Chain

06:40 - The Evolving Role Of Women In Supply Chain Leadership

08:06 - Kristi Elaborates On The Changes In Supply Chain Focus

11:54 - How Kristi’s Fashion Degree Aided Her In A Rapidly Changing Industry

13:39 - The Mission And Brand Of Tropical Smoothie Cafe

17:47 - Kristi Details The Growth Of Tropical Smoothie Cafe

19:57 - What Makes Tropical Smoothie's Supply Chain Unique?

21:34 The Challenges And Strategies In Managing Product Promotions And Balancing Supply

23:01 - Kristi Explains The Top Concerns Of The Tropical Smoothie Brand

23:42 - Planning For Unit Growth: Brand Awareness And Market Penetration

26:44 - The Strategic Benefits Of Proximity To Popular Brands.

28:10 - Tropical Smoothie's Appeal To Young Adults

30:06 - Kristi Discusses The Impact Of Diversity On Decision-Making.

33:56 - What Is The National Restaurant Association?

36:44 - The National Restaurant Association Conference

44:25 - The Importance Of Community, Networking, And Roundtable Discussions At Conferences.

51:37 - Kristi Notes The Future Of Expert Exchange And Industry Support

52:54 - Supply Chain Evolution And FISMA 204 Impact

55:17 - Wrapping Up

I’d like to introduce you to Datum Advisors, a new offering from Datum FS. Our team is composed of seasoned Food Supply Chain Executives from every sector. We stand ready to offer valuable advisory services for your company.

Click here to find out more.