Market of Choice, known as Oregon’s largest independent grocer, is celebrating a significant milestone this month—its 45th anniversary. To mark this occasion, the company is reviving its beloved Product Experience Show, an event dedicated to showcasing food, beverages, and health-and-wellness products. Scheduled for September 26 in its home city of Eugene, this free community event will feature over 250 Pacific Northwest makers, producers, farmers, and ranchers who will both sample and sell their offerings. Notably, 125 of these vendors are based in Oregon.
Rick Wright, owner and CEO of Market of Choice, emphasizes the importance of community support, stating, “Market of Choice wouldn’t be where we are today without the incredible support of our customers and the many local producers who bring Oregon’s bounty to our doorsteps.” He describes the Product Experience Show as a joyous gathering that connects local food enthusiasts with the people behind their favorite products while highlighting innovations in food production.
Attendees of the event will have the unique opportunity to sample various products, meet the makers, and learn about the latest food innovations emerging from Oregon. To ensure that the show also serves a charitable purpose, Market of Choice has partnered with FOOD For Lane County. Guests can gain entry by registering for a free ticket and donating two cans of food at the event entrance. This initiative not only enhances community engagement but also contributes to addressing food insecurity, with partnerships extending to food banks throughout the state.
Market of Choice prides itself on sourcing and highlighting locally made products, which in turn supports the local economy and strengthens the region’s economic vitality. The retailer’s MOJO program has successfully assisted numerous Oregon makers by providing them with essential tools, resources, and a platform to grow their businesses and connect with a broader audience.
Several noteworthy participants in the MOJO program include:
– De Casa Fine Foods, based in Eugene, produces all-natural, USDA Certified Organic salsas that cater to health-conscious consumers.
– Tân Tân Foods, hailing from Beaverton, specializes in authentic Vietnamese sauces crafted from family recipes. Their products, both gluten-free and vegan, stand out in the marketplace.
– Josie’s Best, located in Sisters, manufactures a range of certified gluten-free and allergen-free baking mixes, addressing the needs of those with dietary restrictions.
– HYCH, known as Heat You Can Handle from Salem, creates bold hot sauces that enhance flavors without being overwhelming, adding flavor to meals while catering to spice lovers.
Since its inception in 1979, Market of Choice has expanded to 11 locations across Oregon, employing nearly 1,400 associates. Its reach includes cities such as Ashland, Bend, Corvallis, Eugene, Medford, and the Portland metro area. The grocer has cultivated meaningful relationships with a diverse array of farmers, ranchers, fisherfolk, and food and beverage producers throughout the state.
The return of the Product Experience Show not only celebrates the anniversary of Market of Choice but also underscores the role independent grocers play in local communities. By creating an event that fosters interaction between consumers and producers, Market of Choice emphasizes its commitment to quality, local sourcing, and community engagement.
These actions not only support local businesses but also contribute significantly to efforts fighting food insecurity. By promoting such initiatives, Market of Choice reinforces its dedication to being a proactive member of the Oregon community—an independent grocer with a vision of building a sustainable future grounded in local agricultural practices.
For those interested in attending the Product Experience Show, this event promises a rich array of products, a chance to network with local producers, and an opportunity to give back to the community—all while enjoying the vibrant culinary landscape of Oregon.
