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_1xmdj7jixw0pv.png "Flanagan Food Show Pictures_Beef_Greeters_Shrimp")
Flanagan's annual Food Show has over one 150 foodservice vendors, great deals, and fresh ideas—all in one place.
1. Menu Ideas
Indulge in fresh and fabulous flavours on display to get new ideas for menu planning, plating and garnishing.
2. Hot Trends
Experience first-hand the newest trends and industry developments, with new product launches, unique recipes and leading-edge product demonstrations.
3. Big Deals
Just by attending the show, get exclusive pricing on hundreds of featured products.
4. Networking Opportunities
Network with sales representatives and other operators in an interactive environment for new insight, ideas and innovations.
5. The s.t.o.p. Cash & Carry Booth
Pick up high-quality products at rock-bottom prices while speaking with vendor representatives about which products work best for your operation.
6. Sample Food and Beverage
Take the opportunity to sample and savour mouthwatering products that exhibitors have to offer. (A treat for your tastebuds!)
7. Over 150 Vendors
Enjoy live demonstrations from over 150 vendors, while having the opportunity to meet the innovators behind the ideas.
8. Print your Badge at Home
Skip the registration line and print your badge before you come. Alternatively, you can pick up your badge at the show if that's more convenient.
Need more information? Take a couple of minutes to watch this video from our last show.
At this year's food show, we were proud to showcase hundreds of incredible products. With so many amazing options, it was difficult for us to pick only a few favourites - but here are some highlights from the event!
The Flanagan Food Show is where the foodservice industry gathers to look ahead into what’s new, exciting and trending in Canadian cuisine. This year was particularly special with over one thousand of people in attendance - all buzzing with anticipation! Even Elvis popped by to entertain our guests. There were exclusive deals, delicious samples and learning opportunities for attendees.
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Campbell’s Bombay Style Butter Chicken SoupWhen it comes to soups, Campbell's is recognized internationally for their quality and innovation. I had the pleasure of sampling their Bombay Style Butter Chicken Soup, and I must say it was impressive. Garam masala...cumin…turmeric, oh my! The unique blend of spices make for excellent ethnic flavour. With its creamy texture and perfect balance of spices, this soup is on trend. It’s packaged in 4 x 1.81 kg packages, allowing for smaller batch preparation that is super easy to cook directly in the pouch.
191019 VERVE SOUP BOMBAY BUTTER CHICKEN - 4/1.8KG |
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McCain - Corn RbzMcCain, a well-known leader in frozen potato products, now enters the world of plant and vegetable shareables with their new launch. One of their latest additions, the Corn Rbz (corn ribs), is a perfect example of the innovation in the industry today. These rib-like treats are made with sweet corn that has been coated in crispy batter. While eating them, it's essential to hold them like ribs to make sure you get the full experience. They make a great appetizer or side dish.
199297 MCCAIN CORN RIBZ - 4/4LB |
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Carve Premium Ontario Beef – Prime RibCarve Premium Ontario Beef supports our local farmers and economy. They offer AAA quality beef that is aged a minimum of 21 days, which makes it flavourful, juicy, and tender. Carve showcased their famous prime rib at our show, which got everyone buzzing. The booth was so popular I had to circle back to taste what everyone was raving about. The recipe that made everyone's taste buds dance was a simple sandwich, which included caramelized onions, au jus, and Carve Prime Rib on a bun. What I loved about this sandwich was its simplicity and ease of execution that any operator could put it on their menu.
222824 CARVE BEEF RIBEYE 2X2 LIPON AAA - 2/7KG |
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Mother Parker’s Cold BrewIf you aren’t serving a cold brew coffee in your establishment, you are missing out on a huge (and growing) market. Mother Parker’s Cold Brew is approximately $0.07 cents an ounce and consumers typically don’t ask for top-ups with a cold brew. This product is super easy, simply put it in the machine, and let it brew for 16 hours and voila - cold brewed coffee.
343449 MP COFFEE COLD BREW HAND CRAFTED - 15/16OZ |
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Rich's Soft Whip ToppingRich's Soft Whip Topping is a game-changer for any beverage. This pourable carton contains a drinkable topping that is lighter and thinner than traditional whipped cream. The easy-to-use carton eliminates the need for any equipment, saving time and hassle. It is perfect for specialty drinks, adding a sweet cream flavour with hints of vanilla. The dollop on any drink adds value and makes the drink eye-catching. In addition, Brand Points Plus members should keep an eye out for point multipliers in the May/June Brand Points Plus flyer. If you are a Flanagan customer, signing up for Brand Points Plus is free and members can earn points for great rewards on many items.
116441 RICHS SOFT WHIP POURABLE TOPPING - 12/19OZ |
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Alasko Omelet MixThe Alasko Omelet Mix is a HOT DEAL with a $5.00 off per case offer for tradeshow attendees! In addition to the savings on the product, using the Alasko Omelet Mix saves on labour as there is no need to slice or dice any ingredients. The mix contains diced onions, red peppers, and green peppers, making omelet preparation quick and easy.
197571 ALASKO IQF OMELETTE MIX (ONION & PEP) - 10/1KG |
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Castello Gouda SlicesSliced Gouda? Yes please! Sampling this cheese was a tasty experience, it is delicious and authentic! Made from 100% Danish milk, hormone, and antibiotic-free. This flavourful cheese is perfect for adding a gourmet touch to burgers or sandwiches, and its smaller pack size means less waste from open products. The growing demand for Gouda makes it an excellent choice for menu items. Brand Points Plus members should also keep an eye out for point multipliers.
207865 – CASTELLO GOUDA SLICES – 8/150GM
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Seacouterie BoardThe Seacouterie Board is a fresh take on the traditional charcuterie board by combining all seafood items on one board. The Caudles team had a variety of fresh options, from traditional favorites to luxurious items like caviar. This board is sure to impress seafood lovers. The display at the show included a sampling of some of the best seafood items available. Include various items such as (230213) Atlantic Salmon, (230088) Scallops, (230046) Mussels, (230307) Oysters, (230023) Caviar, and (230230) Lobster. Talk to your Territory Manager for more fresh seafood options! |
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Aviko Au Gratin Potatoes Cream and CheeseMy favourite new product of the day! These potatoes are a must try! These award-winning potatoes are made with fresh cream, butter, and cheese, and full slices of potatoes. Each portion (100g) is perfectly portioned for the ideal starch side for any meal. Their long hold time makes them ideal for banquets, and they cook in just 25 minutes in the oven. There are 90 portions in a case (6/15ea).
155992 AVIKO GRATINS CREAM & CHEESE - 6/3.3LB |
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Lynch’s Maple Chili SauceLynch's Maple Chili Sauce stood out as one of the highlights of the day. The unique flavour profile of this sauce is sure to appeal to a wide range of guests, with its perfect blend of sweet and heat. The versatility of this sauce is impressive, as it can be used as a dip for seafood, a glaze for chicken, or even mixed with other sauces to create your own signature dish. One of the most intriguing suggestions was to try it on top of vanilla ice cream, which is definitely worth a taste test. It is also important to note that maple is currently trending upwards with diners, making this sauce a perfect addition to any menu.
446141 LYNCH MAPLE CHILLI SAUCE - 2/2LT
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Lactalis Shredded Mozzabene 24%Lactalis Shredded Mozzabene 24% is a great alternative to traditional shredded mozzarella cheese. This cheese, which is pronounced "mots-ahh-beneh," (learned this the hard way when I completely mispronounced it at the show) has a unique shiny texture and great taste. It stands out because it has a higher fat content than normal mozzarella cheese, making it perfect for use in high-temperature ovens or wood-fired ovens. Lactalis is one of the few producers that offer a 24% shredded mozzabene. The best part is that this cheese is still priced competitively compared to conventional mozzarella cheese. For those interested in trying it out, samples can be obtained by reaching out to your Territory Manager.
207817 LACTAN CHEESE SHRED MOZZABENE 24% - 4/2.27KG |
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Martin's Potato Hamburger BunsPotato buns are the latest addition to the bread market and their demand is rapidly increasing. These buns are created with a unique ingredient which sets them apart from other baked goods - potatoes. The use of potatoes in the production of potato buns results in a bun that is slightly sweeter and softer than regular bread, with a distinct yellow hue. The resultant texture and taste of potato buns make them a versatile ingredient that can be used in various ways, from classic sandwiches to high-end gourmet burgers.
125864 MARTIN BURGER BUN POTATO 4" - 4/12EA |
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Egg BitesAnother example of a trending snack that is growing in popularity is "omelet bites." These bite-sized snacks are impressively high in protein and provide a quick and easy way to satisfy hunger while on the go. The simplicity of execution makes them an attractive option for people on a tight schedule, and they are also gluten-free, providing another potential selling point for businesses catering to gluten-sensitive customers. In a consumer environment where convenience and healthiness are both crucial factors, omelet bites are a perfect snack option that caters to both. Available in three flavours:
110183 EGGSOL EGG BITES FOUR CHEESE 1/94EA 110196 EGGSOL EGG BITE BACON & CHEDDAR 1/94EA 110198 EGGSOL EGGBITE REDPEP SPIN EGGWHITE 1/94EA |
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Sparkling Cranberry BeveragesOne of my favourite stories of the day! Did you know that Ocean Spray was founded in 1930 by three cranberry farmers and has since grown to include over 700 farmer families? Out of these 700, 100 Canadian farmers also make up the Ocean Spray team. All proceeds from Ocean Spray go right back to the farmers.
One exciting new line from Ocean Spray that has been garnering attention is their sparkling cranberry beverages. These refreshing drinks have a fruity, bubbly taste that is sure to please the most discerning palates. Manufactured in Canada with real fruit juice and cranberry goodness, these carbonated beverages are a refreshing alternative to traditional sodas.
463772 OSPRAY WATER SPARKLING CRANBERRY 24/340ML 463773 OSPRAY WATER SPARKLING CRANBERRY LITE 24/340ML 463774 OSPRAY WATER SPARLING CRANBERRY MANGO 24/340ML |
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Wow Factor New CakesI had to sample three new cakes from Wow Factor (tough job, but someone has to do it) and in typical Wow fashion – they did not disappoint.
Don’t forget: Wow Factor has a FREE dessert menu program. If you place a minimum of 4 Wow Factor Desserts on your dessert menu you are eligible for a free custom-designed, full colour dessert menus. Talk to your Territory Manager for more information or visit app.wowfactor.ca.
105716 WOW BOSTON CREAM PIE CAKE - 2/9IN 105715 WOW NANAIMO BAR CAKE - 2/10IN 105714 WOW OLD FASHIONED CHOCOLATE CAKE - 2/10IN |
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Deluxe new Duro Shoppers availableIf you're looking for environmentally friendly bags, Deluxe has you covered. Their two new large bags make takeout service a breeze and offer the perfect solution for your guests.
504859 DELUXE BAG PAPER HANDLE 10X6.75X12" - 1/250PC 504861 DELUXE BAG PAPER HANDLE 12X9X12.75" - 1/200PC |
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UncrustablesPB and J with the crusts cut off? YES, Uncrustables have entered the Canadian market! A popular item in the United States, these sandwiches are not only a hit among kids but also perfect for grab-and-go locations, such as colleges, university campuses or golf courses.
108060 SMUCKR STRAWBERRY UNCRUSTABLES - 72/76GM |
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FREE Activity PlacematsTo add a touch of entertainment to your menu, you might want to consider offering free kids activity mats from Egg Farmers of Ontario. These mats feature fun egg-shaped glasses that pop out, providing entertainment for children while they wait for their meals. The activity sheets are available at no cost, orders can be made online through the EggChef website. |
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Browne iAssistWhen I saw a robot (a.k.a. iAssist) rolling down the aisles at the show I knew I had to investigate. I was impressed by its sleek design and functionality. The robot could smoothly move around, carrying trays with food and drinks (George Jetson was no where to be found).
I had a great conversation with the Browne representative, who explained to me how the iAssist works and who would benefit from using it. You can supplement your serving staff with the robot, allowing them to stay in the front of the house with your guests while the iAssist goes to the kitchen. Your kitchen staff can then put the food on the trays, and the iAssist will carry them back to the table. This simple process saves time and maximizes efficiency, allowing the server to attend to more guests and tables. It can also lead to higher tips for your servers, and greater customer satisfaction.
Alternatively, guests can take the food off the tray themselves, and the iAssist can still help with the bussing of the dishes. The robot has three trays, each capable of holding up to 22 lbs.
I did inquire about programming iAssist, let’s face it – no one is looking for more stress with tech. Browne will come to your restaurant and set it all up for you. Talk to your Territory Manager if you need more information. |
That’s a wrap for this year. We share our heartfelt thanks with everyone who came to celebrate with us. We were thrilled to have you join us! As Elvis would say, “thank you, thank you very much.”
Explore Our Food Show through Photos:
April 5 and April 26, we held our spring food shows in Kitchener and Sudbury. This annual event gives you the chance to sample new products, network with sales representatives, and experience first-hand the newest trends and industry developments.
We’d like to say "thank you" to all who participated and attended. We couldn’t have done it without our fantastic vendors and customers!
Kitchener food show guests, Kitchener food show entrance, ED Foods booth, Flanagan's Our Ontario booth.
Guests browsed the exhibits and had their taste buds working overtime sampling new products in foodservice as well as innovative approaches to traditional favourites.
Customers felt that this year’s show was very resource-focused, according to Dave Ball, Division Sales Manager for Flanagan's. “Products complemented current trends, and each booth provided great insight to menu planning,” says Ball. “Vendors didn’t just display their products, they explained how to sell it.”
Some of these trending items included the Maplehurst/Weston Bakeries doughnut wall and doughnut pops, as well as Rich’s Foodservice freakshakes.
Maplehurst/Weston's unique doughnuts can be customized to specific events, and Rich's crazy shakes are an incredibly popular menu trend. Both are sure to be posted to social media by your customers. (Take it from us—we couldn't resist getting a photo!)
From left: Maplehurst/Weston Bakeries doughnut wall and doughnut pops, Rich's Foodservice freakshakes.
This year's shows were centre-of-plate focused, featuring premium beef, fresh seafood and custom-cut poultry. As an introduction to our Carve premium Ontario beef brand, a chef greeted customers at the Carve booth with tender and delicious ribeye and striploin steaks.
“There was high interest in Flanagan’s protein products,” Ball continues, “most notably our new premium Ontario beef brand, Carve, and fresh seafood from Caudle’s Catch.”
Our marketing team greeted customers at the Our Ontario booth, promoting our new local food program.
We're thrilled to introduce our customers to our local program. As a proudly Canadian company, we know the importance of supporting our economy and educating our customers on the value of purchasing local.
As guests moved through the show, they received a Canada t-shirt from the Flanagan booth, supported Friends of We Care by spinning a wheel at their booth to win prizes, and last but not least, shopped the s.t.o.p. Cash & Carry booth. |
A customer favourite, the Cash & Carry booth has hot deals on a wide variety of smallwares items each year.
“I had customers tell me that this was one of our better quality shows,” says Ball.
“Our show has a unique level of energy,” adds Amber Recchia, Event Coordinator for Flanagan’s. “Flanagan vendors love the level of engagement they receive from our customers.”
We take pride in inviting our customers to the shows. We recognize their busy schedules, and greatly appreciate the time they take to spend with us.
Our goal for each show is to delight, educate and feed our guests—we've done just that for another successful food show season.
Thank you!
Each spring, thousands of people gather at the Flanagan Food Show to visit, sample unique new products, network with industry leaders and get exclusive show deals on a selection of products.
It was our 37th year hosting the show, and this year's was amazing. There was a buzz of excitement in the air as members of the industry came together to celebrate and learn about all things foodservice.
Because there is so much to see and taste (everyone’s favourite part) in just one day, we’ve recapped highlights of the show for you.
We sampled new products, learned new trends from each presentation, and had the chance to chat with vendor reps about what’s new and exciting in the world of Canadian foodservice.
By Jackie Oakes
I’m Jackie, Senior Marketing Manager at Flanagan’s. I was able to visit many booths on show day and wanted to share some of my favourite discoveries:
Tamper-Evident Carry Out BagsFlanagan code: 504489
These bags protect food from being tampered with when being delivered.
Recently I heard a story where a third party delivery driver was helping himself to some of the food he was delivering. I am sure most drivers aren’t—but this stuck in my head so I was very pleased to see these bags at the show. It is a large bag that permanently seals when the food is packed. Once delivered, the customer simply removes a perforated area of the bag and takes their food out. |
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It has a write-on block allowing operators to identify the customer or order number.They also offer custom print the bags; minimum case order is 250 cases.
McCain Avocado Wedges and Root Vegetable Medley
Flanagan codes: 199024 and 193039
McCain actually had four new products that I enjoyed sampling, but I forced myself to choose my two favourites to share with you:
Avocado Slices
YUM! Menu penetration for avocados are up 32% over the past four years and this breaded avocado is a great appetizer or addition to a burger. This provides operators an easy way to handle avocado, which can be rather temperamental.
Root Vegetable Medley
A tasty, unique twist on a traditional fry. Carrots, parsnips and beets are cut and lightly battered. Presentation is beautiful on the plate!
Carole’s Cheesecake on a Stik
Flanagan codes: Matcha Green Tea – 107921
Well HELLO, cheesecake on a stick! Delicious, only 190 calories each, and available in four flavours: Matcha Green Tea, California Almond, New York Classic, and Belgium Chocolate. |
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This is the perfect product to allow your guests indulge, while not breaking the calorie-bank. Today’s consumers are time strapped and want convenient foods that are easy to snack on. This product would work great in a location marketed as an afternoon snack.
Mini Deep Dish Pepperoni Pizza Appetizer and Chicken Quesadilla Appetizer
Flanagan codes: 187791 and 187785
Brom Mise en Bouche was not a company I was familiar with before the show, and I was eager to try their appetizers. With more than 20 years’ experience in food manufacturing, their line of hors d’oeuvres and canapés were delicious!
My favourites were the pizza-style mini tartlet with pepperoni and cheese and the tortilla dough cone filled with chicken, strong cheddar, peppers and onions.
Strawberry Peanut Stick, Raspberry Chocolate Danish and Sweet Potato Bun
Flanagan codes:
Strawberry Peanut Stick – 107549
Raspberry Chocolate Danish – 107565
Sweet Potato Bun – 126150
The Bridor story began in the 1970s, when Louis Le Duff moved from France to Quebec and couldn’t find a pastry to equal that in France. He opened in his first bakery in 1980 and has been developing high quality breads and pastries for over 30 years.
Bridor just launched a Strawberry Peanut Stick to mirror the attributes of a peanut butter and jam sandwich, which was scrumptious!
I am hard pressed to pick between that and the chocolate raspberry Danish. I was very excited about the sweet potato hamburger bun. The taste is very subtle, making this bun ideal for a pulled pork sandwich.
MadeGood Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip and Sweet and Salty Granola Bars
Flanagan codes:
Chocolate Chip – 364538
Sweet and Salty – 364539
Made Good has a great story, leaning on healthy food as well as being an inclusive company. Half of their employees—from management to production—are women. Newcomers to Canada and people from under-represented groups enjoy a sense of belonging at MadeGood.
With one full serving of vegetables from six different sources, the vegan granola bars are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can help contribute to a healthy digestive and immune system.
Wings' Uncooked Ramen Noodles
Flanagan code: 119450
What is great about this traditional ramen noodle is that the product comes pre-portioned in a case of 24. Each package is 100 grams. It can be used in soups or as a cold noodle salad.
Here is a Ramen Chicken Noodle Soup recipe using the product:
Ingredients
4 bundles Wing’s Ramen Noodles
5 L chicken broth
1 inch ginger
6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 tbsp. canola oil
2 tbsp. Wing’s Soy Sauce
1 tbsp. sugar
1 carrot cut into match sticks
2 hard-boiled eggs, cut in half lengthwise
2 green onions, chopped
4 tsp. sesame oil
Preparation
In a large pot, bring chicken broth and ginger to a boil then reduce heat. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, slice chicken thighs.
Heat canola oil in a large frying pan over medium high heat and add chicken.
Once chicken pieces are fully cooked and have a nice sear, add Wing’s Soy Sauce and sugar. Continue frying until chicken evenly coated.
Boil Wing’s Ramen Noodles in lightly salted water. Drain, and portion into serving bowls.
Add chicken broth to noodles, and arrange chicken, carrots, egg, and green onions on top.
Drizzle with sesame oil and serve.
Serves: 4
I’m Katrina, Marketing Specialist at Flanagan’s.
There were so many delicious new products showcased on April 10 at our Kitchener show that I had trouble keeping my summary concise. These were my favourites:
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Beyond Sausage by Beyond Meat
Flanagan codes: Original Brat – 177000
Walking into the show, the Beyond Meat booth was high on my list of vendors to visit. I was so excited to try the Beyond Sausage and it did not disappoint.
Though I’m not vegetarian, the Beyond Burger has been my A&W go-to order since it was released. The Beyond Sausage has the same attributes as the burger in that it has a similar texture and taste to that of its animal protein counterpart. Beyond delicious. |
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Wow! Factor’s Sangria Cake, Reese Peanut Butter Blondie, and Vegan Chocolate Torte
Flanagan codes:
Sangria Cake – 104169
Reese Peanut Butter Blondie – 104154
Vegan Chocolate Cake – 104175
Wow! Factor was another booth I didn’t want to miss. I featured the Reese Peanut Butter Blondie in an issue of our New Product Newsletter shortly before the show, and I had to try it for myself.
Wow! Factor has released five unique new products for spring 2019, and these products were three of them.
The Reese Peanut Butter Blondie tastes exactly as you’d imagine a Reese candy would taste in cake form. In other words, decadent.
Their Vegan Chocolate Cake is comprised of mostly plant ingredients, and the Sangria Cake is heavenly, fresh, and chock-full of summer berries.
Cavendish DeliverCrisp™ Fries Flanagan code: 193130 This year, Cavendish debuted their DeliverCrisp™ fries; a skin-on, straight-cut fry that maintains its crispiness for 30 minutes while en route to your customer’s door. 55% of restaurant delivery occasions are incremental orders, and right now French fries are the fastest growing food item in delivery. No matter what serving container these are packaged in, DeliverCrisp™ fries are designed to provide an unprecedented hold time. |
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Fully Cooked Chicken Wings
Even better: this product qualifies for Brand Points Plus, and until June 30 you can earn 5 bonus points for each case purchased!
Flanagan code 164494 Reuven International featured their new Fully Cooked Wings (exclusive to Flanagan!), and they were incredibly tasty as is, without any seasoning.
These wings are prepared straight from your freezer to the fryer and ready in less than five minutes. Because they’re fully cooked, you eliminate any food safety concerns and minimize fryer oil degradation. |
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KIND Bars
Flanagan code: 164494 Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate – 177000 Almond Sea Salt & Dark Chocolate – 177002 Almond & Coconut – 177004
Kind, indeed. KIND bars are all about simplicity. With no artificial sweeteners or added sugars, these bars are nutrient-dense without compromising flavour.
Speaking of flavour, the three that were featured at the show were delicious; Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate, Almond Sea Salt & Dark Chocolate, and Almond & Coconut.
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The Deals
Once again, we had a Truckload Deals section in the centre of the show floor that featured one-day-only deals on select products. Flanagan customers placed their orders on the spot, and saved anywhere from $0.50 to $18.00 per case (or portion, depending on the product).
Products with deals included Grille & Galley Gourmet steak, Redpath sugar, Gay Lea salted and unsalted butter, High Liner seafood, and a variety of smallwares.
Though the Truckload Deals were one-day-only, show pricing applies for six weeks past show date; reach out to your Territory Manager for more information or call Customer Relations at 1-855-FLANAGAN.
Thank you to all guests, vendors, presenters and staff for another wonderful show season. We look forward to seeing you in 2020!
Each year, our spring trade shows aim to inspire guests with exciting menu suggestions, new cooking techniques and more. Walking the show floor this year, I was inspired by all the products and presentations. Truly outstanding!
Enjoy this recap video of our 2018 show; thank you to all customers and suppliers who made this show another fantastic event.
(Below the video, I've highlighted a few of my favourite new products from the show. (Fair warning—I have a sweet tooth!)
Flanagan code 104252
Decadent is the best way to describe this tasty white cake with strawberry ganache, topped with strawberry whip cream icing and white chocolate drizzle and curls. A great way to showcase one of summers most popular flavours!
Wow Factor also featured their new Baklava Cake (buttermilk pound cake layers filled and frosted with a vanilla cream cheese mousse, garnished with a chopped baklava topping) and Italian Almond Cream Cake (two layers of rum soaked buttermilk pound cake filled and frosted with amaretto mascarpone mousse). I warned you I had a sweet tooth.
Wow Factor has always done a stellar job on their desserts; each cake is made by hand. A Canadian owned company who uses premium, local ingredients (when available).
My absolute favourite story about Wow Factor is the amazing team who fold their boxes. Partnering with the Robin Hood Association, a group of disabled people take pride in carefully folding each box. Wow Factor could have boxes produced much faster through automation but they are choosing to pay it forward.
Flanagan code 155048
This isn’t your average veggie burger! It looks and tastes like a hamburger however it is made with 100% plant proteins. Gluten free and GMO free, this was my biggest surprise of the day. After trying every veggie burger on the planet (okay, I may be exaggerating slightly) I had finally given up on finding one. The search is over!
As the demand for vegan options on your menus is increasing, I encourage everyone to consider The Beyond Burger® when looking at your vegetarian offerings.
Flanagan code 222828
Now more than ever, the Carve story is one that you can share with your guests and bond together over a quest to help build a sustainable Ontario. Ontario beef supplied by a group of hard working Ontario beef farmers.
Beyond the story, they served Coffee Rubbed Teres Major with Chimichurri Sauce. I am not a big meat eater (hence my quest to find the best veggie burger), but this was a delicious mix of flavours that demanded a second serving. Finely ground espresso (you could also use instant espresso powder), sugar and spices made the meat very tender and scrumptious. The Chimichurri was a refreshing addition...you can find the complete recipe here.
Teres Major is not a cut that I have personally cooked with, but it’s an affordable option.
Flanagan code 107906
Absolutely scrumptious! Not only is Maple one of the top trending flavours on Ontario menus, but the story behind this tart is also share-worthy. The tart was created to commemorate Canada’s 150 year anniversary, by making the tart with ingredients that we would have had 150 years ago. No corn syrup, all butter and pure maple syrup. The fluted crust gives the tart a little more personality and leads itself to the small batch look.
Grandmother’s also has a Maple Walnut Butter Tart and Maple Raisin Butter Tart.
At the s.t.o.p. Cash & Carry I came across a very cool table top menu stand that allows your guests to charge their phones. It offers video, static imagery and sound. It doesn’t play too loud so it won’t disturb other guests at nearby tables.
There are two models; one has a memory card and the other is a network version (this would typically require more than 20 units). If you purchase 4 or more they offer a lease agreement. What is great about the network version is it allows you to easily adjust your offers and then take down as soon as you want to. If you want to start small, you could move between tables if guests are asking to charge their phones (it charges four devices simultaneously).
Flanagan code 107906
When you think Ontario turkey, you think Hayter's. At the show they were showcasing a teriyaki burger; turkey breast marinated in a teriyaki sauce. It is incredibly flavourful just on its own, even without all my favourite toppings (looking at you, goat cheese) and a bun.
Not only are local ingredients trending, Hayter's stresses that Ontario turkey provides outstanding value on any menu; it delivers excellent margins to you, the operator, while lending itself well to burgers, deli sandwiches and centre-of-the-plate (win-win-win).
Flanagan Code 406584
Another Ontario product, Craft Caesar Mix by Walter Caesar is a Canadian classic, reinvented. It's made with all natural Ontario products; vine-ripened tomatoes, grated horseradish, Worchestershire and hot sauce, select spices and real clam juice which is sourced sustainably. Walter's is actually the first Caesar Mix that is Ocean Wise™!
I'm not typically a Caesar drinker, but this was refreshing and very enjoyable.
To sample their mix, they had an alcohol-free vodka called Seedlip, the world's first distilled non-alcoholic spirit made using peas, spearmint, rosemary and thyme.
Flanagan code 159009
A unanimous favourite at the show!
Brisket has a comfort food quality to it and it’s perfect on a sandwich, pizza or even a salad. This Hormel product is a fully cooked whole beef brisket which is rubbed generously with seasoning and is smoked for up to 16 hours. In addition to the amazing taste, what I really enjoyed about this product is that it doesn’t come with sauce, giving you the freedom to make it your own signature dish.
Smoking meat is not easily duplicated at home and is an excellent draw for your guests. According to Technomic Trends presentation given at the Kitchener show, the leading entrée types featuring brisket are sandwiches, burgers and beef dishes (in that order).
Canadian and Family Owned
 LR Beauty Angled.jpg "Campbell's Chicken Bombay Soup")
