Metro Market and Mariano’s, local grocery chains, have announced an open call for regional vendors offering innovative food items. This opportunity, called “What’s Next,” invites local chefs and artisans to present their products, highlighting Wisconsin’s and Illinois’s vibrant culinary scene.
The initiative seeks to feature local specialties, such as Wisconsin-made cheeses and Chicago’s giardiniera, ensuring that small regional producers get a platform to grow. “Every great regional producer starts small, and the Roundy’s team is committed to helping businesses grow their brands,” asserts the team behind this effort.
Interested vendors must apply by 12 PM on Friday, April 19. Selected participants will present their products at Metro Market’s downtown Milwaukee venue on May 1, and Mariano’s West Loop location on May 8. The winners will receive guidance from the teams.
Mariano’s and Metro Market are parts of Roundy’s Supermarkets, Inc., a Kroger Co. subsidiary, and operate under the values of feeding the human spirit.
Questions about the event can be directed to welovelocal@roundys.com.
Contributing to the local flavor, the stores already offer a range of beloved local brands such as 5 Rabbit, Anodyne Coffee, and Eli’s Cheesecake, featuring products from bakers, breweries, and coffee roasters, among others.
