COVID-19 forces Soupergirl to close cafes and embrace retail

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Although COVID-19 has forced Soupergirl to shut down both of its coffee shops, the mother-daughter duo behind the Washington DC company is doubling revenue in 2022 thanks to a pivot to retail partnerships.

Soupergirl’s co-founders, Marilyn and Sara Polon, are developing the brand despite the closure of their two restaurants. Provided

Although COVID-19 has forced Soupergirl to shut down both of its coffee shops, the mother-daughter duo behind the Washington DC company is doubling revenue in 2022 thanks to a pivot to retail partnerships.

After winning a nationwide competition to be part of Kroger’s Go Fresh & Local program, earning the right to throw soups on Kroger’s shelves, CEO Sara Polon and her mother, Marilyn, also signed deals to sell soups. at Harris Teeter and MOM organic markets throughout the Mid Atlantic.

“We are a values-driven company that truly believes that the more we grow, the more we can have a big impact on everything and everyone,” Polon told FastCasual. “By focusing our energies on grocery stores, we can reach more people in the most efficient way possible.”

Plus, Soupergirl is teaming up with PLNT Burger, a quick and laid-back plant-based burger concept run by Chef Spike Mendelsohn. Soupergirl’s Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is now available on the PLNT menu as part of a combo that includes the chain’s Grilled Cheese Sandwich.

“In a new post-Covid (or mid-Covid) world, consumers are looking for brands that care more about high-end sales,” Polon said. “When like-minded companies come together, the impact only increases. “We’re just getting started.”

Although restaurants are no longer Soupergirl’s primary focus, Polon said the mission has not changed; it just keeps growing.

“It was always about saving the world, one bowl of soup at a time,” she said. “Lots, lots, lots of soup bowls will be cooked.”

To help manage the growth, Soupergirl hired Heather Stouffer, CEO of Mom Made Foods, as COO.

“Heather is an organic food visionary with extensive experience in managing and growing businesses,” said Polon.

Stouffer said Soupergirl is poised to dominate the fresh soup category.

“This unique, values-driven brand is positioned to be the category leader and beyond. I am delighted to join this powerful team led by women as we enter a new phase of growth,” he said. she declared.

Founded in 2008, Soupergirl also sells soups at Whole Foods, Costco, Giant Delivers, Wegmans and Lidl. He ships soup nationwide and has appeared on “Shark Tank” on ABC, “Today Show” on NBC, and “The Dish” on CBS.

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