The Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA-headquartered National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) has kicked off its 2025 “Penguin Pitch: Emerging Brand Contest,” designed to solicit and showcase innovation in the industry. The competition, which debuted last year, launched on January 1, 2025, and will evaluate this year’s entrants based on product taste, innovation and market strategy.
“NFRA’s Penguin Pitch celebrates brands that are rethinking and reshaping the future of our categories,” said Tricia Greyshock, president and chief executive officer of the trade association. “We’re looking for something that not only excites retailers and consumers, but addresses an unmet need, is unique, and truly represents the exciting innovation happening in our industry.”
The grand prize winner will receive a complimentary tasting table at Café NFRA during the 2025 Convention, October 18-21, in Orlando, Florida. Valued at $7,000, the Cafe offers emerging brands a unique opportunity to showcase their products directly to industry decision makers.
“Winning NFRA’s Penguin Pitch last year was a game-changer for Big Mozz. The exposure we received at Café NFRA connected us directly with key industry leaders and opened doors to new retail partnerships,” said Marlon Weinberg, director of retail sales at Brooklyn, New York-based Big Mozz. “Being recognized for our innovation has helped solidify our brand as a standout in the frozen aisle.”
This year’s contest will also honor winners in three distinct categories: Most Creative Packaging; Most Disruptive Product; Most Unique Promotional Campaign.
Eligibility and Timeline
Competing companies must have entered retail food sector within the past ten years. Annual sales for the product must range from $100,000 to $2 million as of February 1, 2025, and participants must be NFRA members in good standing or join by March 1, 2025.
