On this episode of the Ask Brien Show, our hosts Brien Johnson and Traci DeForge speak with Dee Breazeale, vice president of business development for Albany Farms.  Brien and Traci discuss with Dee how the company plans to be the leading producer of ramen in the United States by mid 2022.  Dee also elaborates on why Albany Farms chose to manufacture in the United States rather than import their ramen, how the supply chain is affecting all US companies, and how their new facility is going to benefit Belle Fourche, South Dakota.  In addition, Brien and Traci discuss the current market trends driving the potential for project and manufacturing expansion in the United States.

 IN THIS EPISODE:

• [04:25] Dee Breazeale is introduced and she shares how she got started in business.
• [07:53] Dee’s role as the vice president of business development for Albany Farms.
• [10:40] How the supply chain has affected Albany Farm’s brand and products.
• [15:20] Albany Farm’s current standing in the ramen industry and where they aim to be in six months.
• [21:55] Have labor shortages impacted the construction of the new facility?
• [24:44] Could more companies establish manufacturing plants in the United States rather than importing their goods?

 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Many companies, big and small, are being affected by the supply chain, leading some companies to consider manufacturing in the United States.
• Most ramen sold and consumed in the US is imported.  With a new facility under construction, many strategies in place, and utilizing local farmers, Albany Farms aims to be the United State’s leading producer of ramen by mid 2022.
• Albany Farms selected Belle Fourche, South Dakota to build their manufacturing plant because of the geographical location, the city is on a major railroad line, and their wheat will be grown and provided by local farmers.  The company truly put a lot of thought into this decision that will benefit the community by providing careers for many people and feed for livestock.

Links Mentioned:

www.askbrien.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dee-breazeale-62a8794

BIO:

Team-oriented business leader driving sustainable growth and profit through strategic planning, talent development, and cross-functional collaboration. Leverage global experience in operations, systems, merchandising, buying, financials, P&L accountability, international, wholesale, and category planning to improve market positioning and gain competitive advantage. Build and maintain positive relationships with internal/external stakeholders and suppliers at all levels, promoting win-win solutions. Extensive Walmart/Sam’s experience internally and externally. 12 years of CPG experience selling to Walmart/Sam’s. Long term relationships within Walmart and Sam’s throughout the organization.