In the world of food distribution and retail, collaboration is the key to success. Two notable leaders in the industry, Cammie Chatterton, chief executive officer of Bay Food Brokerage, and David Habib, chief executive officer of Yo Mama’s Foods, recently joined forces in a partnership that has proven to be both strategic and personally rewarding. And, yes, they are both members of the past Tampa Bay Business and Wealth cover club – it’s actually how they met.
Their companies operate in different facets of the food business—Bay Food Brokerage specializes in representing brands to retailers like Publix, while Yo Mama’s Foods produces high-quality pasta sauces, salad dressings and other food products.
However, their shared commitment to excellence, strong industry expertise and passion for community engagement brought them together in a way that felt almost serendipitous.
TBBW caught up with Chatterton and Habib to discuss how their partnership came to be, the benefits they’ve experienced and the exciting new opportunities on the horizon. This interview has been edited for brevity and length.
How did the collaboration between Bay Food Brokerage and Yo Mama’s Foods come to be?
David Habib: It started a couple of years ago, when one of Cammie’s sales team members sat next to me on a plane. He mentioned he worked for Bay Food Brokerage and, at the time, we were working with another broker. Fast forward to December of last year–I met Cammie at an event and, after that, things moved quickly.
In January, Cammie and her team visited our headquarters, and we immediately saw the value in working together. Their expertise, coverage and cultural alignment with us made it a natural fit. We signed our brokerage agreement soon after, and have been working together ever since.
Cammie Chatterton: I completely agree. Sometimes you meet someone and just feel like you’ve known them forever. That’s how it was with David. We hit it off right away and, beyond the professional fit, our values and approach to business were aligned. Bay Food Brokerage is selective about the brands we represent and Yo Mama’s Foods is truly top-notch in its category. It was a perfect match, both strategically and personally.
What have been some of the biggest benefits of this partnership? Any unexpected opportunities?
Chatterton: One of the biggest benefits, for me, has been having a sounding board. David and I have been able to bounce ideas off each other and support each other at various events, like the Chamber of Commerce Awards and Apogee Awards. Beyond business, we’ve built a strong friendship and that’s invaluable.
Habib: Absolutely. Having Cammie as a mentor, in this industry, has been incredible. Much of what I’ve learned has been through trial and error, so having someone like Cammie, who has years of experience, to offer guidance has been a game-changer.
What exciting developments should we keep an eye on from Bay Food Brokerage and Yo Mama’s Foods?
Habib: We have some big launches coming up. Our salad dressings just got authorized at Lowe’s Supermarkets, in the Carolinas, and we’re working on expanding our condiments and dressings into Publix, with Bay Food Brokerage’s help. Additionally, we’re launching new products this year including protein pasta and clean cooking wines.
Chatterton: We’re always looking for ways to bring high-quality products to market, and David’s brand aligns perfectly with that mission. Our goal is to continue supporting Yo Mama’s Foods, and other great brands, in getting their products on more shelves.
What are some of the biggest industry trends and challenges, right now?
Chatterton: Supply chain issues have finally stabilized, which is great news. The one exception is eggs, which are still experiencing high prices due to the bird flu affecting supply. But, overall, food prices have leveled off, and we’re in a much better place than we were a year ago.
Habib: We’re seeing strong trends in global flavors and protein-rich foods, which led us to launch our protein pasta line. Omnichannel retailing is also becoming more dominant. Platforms like Instacart and DoorDash are playing a bigger role in food distribution. In fact, Yo Mama’s Foods was named the No. 2 fastest-growing brand on Instacart, which is huge for us.
You both are very involved in the community. Can you share some of your recent efforts?
Chatterton: Feeding Tampa Bay is a cause that’s close to my heart. Bay Food Brokerage, and my family, have been deeply involved in supporting their mission. During last year’s hurricane season, we helped provide millions of meals to people in need. Additionally, I was recently named the incoming chairperson for the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, which I’m incredibly excited about.
Habib: Like Cammie, we’re passionate about tackling food scarcity. We recently started a partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay, donating pallets of sauce to support their mission. We also work with 360 Eats and Catholic Charities to provide meals to those in need. Additionally, I sit on the board of Amplify Clearwater.
Any final thoughts?
Chatterton: I just want to say how much I appreciate this partnership and the opportunities that have come from it. I’m excited about what’s ahead and grateful for the support of the Tampa Bay business community.
Habib: Likewise! It’s been an amazing journey and I’m looking forward to continuing to grow with Cammie and her team.