Food & Beverage Retail and Sourcing in Greater Pittsburgh

Join other buyers, retailers, wholesalers, and food service professionals for an open conversation about what's actually working — and what's still missing — in SW PA’s food production ecosystem. In just one hour, we’ll identify resources worth investing in to build a stronger food production ecosystem.

Anyone purchasing bulk raw or prepared food products to provide to end consumers, spanning physical storefronts, online platforms, and collective purchasing networks. They serve as the critical link between producers and the end customer. Includes:

• Grocery stores - locally owned, chains, co-ops, etc.
• Wholesalers
• Farmers Markets
• Retail markets (groceries, shops, corner stores, co-ops, etc)
• Restaurants and caterers
• Food service (hospitals, schools, etc) & Procurement offices - schools and institutions
• Buying co-ops and online purchasing platforms

This session is part of a series of conversations Mechanism is hosting across the Pittsburgh food production ecosystem. Rather than a presentation, expect an open discussion led by a facilitator — your input directly shapes where we will focus capacity, build partnerships, and advocate for investment.

By attending, you'll have a direct hand in identifying which existing resources deserve more support and which new investments would remove real barriers to your success. You'll also hear what other retailers, buyers and food and beverage businesses in the region are facing, and learn how to get involved further.

Local Working Group

• Abi Kapelewski | CRAFT at Chatham University
• Ash Chan | House of Gold Collaborative
• Chad Townsend | Millie’s Homemade Ice Cream
• Gene Anderson | Prototype PGH
• Kellie Wild | Pittsburgh Food Policy Council
• Lisa Freeman | Freeman Family Farm & Greenhouse
• Zena Ruiz | Homewood-Brushton YMCA