McClain’s Old Florida Gourmet Plans Tabletop Show

McClain’s Old Florida Gourmet will conduct its annual tabletop show Aug. 21 and 22 for producers that are interested in reaching Florida’s gourmet, gift and tourism markets, and for retailers from across the state and nation who would like to sample new and trending products.

The show has included national companies such as Jelly Belly, The Spice Lab, DeLallo, Taffy Town and Tortuga, as well as many regional producers, according to Kelly Abercrombie, CEO of McClain’s, which is a regional distributor of shelf-stable gourmet food, bulk and count candy, and Florida specialties and novelties. 

It also attracts national retailers like Paradies, which operates airport and hotel shops, and hundreds of retailers from across the state, Abercrombie said.

“Our shows give most of our retailers a taste of hot new products at a show that is close to home,” she said, “and producers can raise awareness of their products to a wide range of retailers, which gives them a platform and the chance to get some great feedback. 

“We also try to make it a fun experience with a daily giveaway,” she said. “This year, retailers have the chance to win an iPad mini each day of the show.”

McClain’s distributes more than 4,500 products from 75 suppliers. Accounts range from airport concession, hotels and hospitality, and retailers such as Whole Foods, The Fresh Market and Lucky’s Market to independent grocers, drug stores and other retailers. 

McClain’s carries products from national companies and also specializes in distribution of Florida-produced products including Anastasia Confections, Davidson of Dundee, Reva Foods and Tropical Blossom.