Maple Ridge Farms, a supplier of gourmet food gifts and customized items to the promotional products industry, announced its acquisition of Sweeter Cards, a product that combines a greeting card with a gourmet treat.
“Maple Ridge Farms is thrilled to announce the acquisition of Sweeter Cards, a strategic move that enhances our market leadership and opens new avenues for growth and innovation,” said Maple Ridge Founder & President Tom Riordan.
Jodie Schillinger, executive vice president at Maple Ridge Farms, added, “At Maple Ridge Farms, we pride ourselves on our gourmet brand, unwavering commitment to quality, and recognition as one of ASI and PPAI’s Best Places to Work. Our genuine passion for ensuring customer happiness is evident in every interaction, enthusiastically forming the core of our brand ethos. Stacy and her team at Sweeter Cards share these principles, making this partnership an exciting and natural fit.”
Stacy Stahl, founder of Sweeter Cards in 2019, expressed her excitement about the acquisition.
“The industry’s respect for Maple Ridge Farms is unparalleled,” Stahl said. “Their deep distributor relationships and outstanding reputation will serve as a catalyst for Sweeter Cards, and I look forward to bringing the magical Sweeter Cards experience into their esteemed ecosystem.”
Following Sweeter Cards’ victory at PPAI’s The Pitch competition in January, the brand captured the attention of Jodie Schillinger.
“I was familiar with Stacy’s background prior to the expo and was eager to meet her in Vegas. Her impressive business acumen, combined with the values, authenticity, and energy she infused into her company, deeply resonated with me,” Schillinger explained. “When we met in person, our connection was immediate, and we recognized the bright future ahead for Maple Ridge Farms and Sweeter Cards. Our team of Ridgers is enthusiastic about providing Sweeter Cards with the resources and support needed for substantial growth in our industry.”
Schillinger further commented, “Maple Ridge Farms’ legendary quality and customer-centric approach will continue to evolve, with enhancements in packaging, creative offerings, and varied price points. The synergy between Maple Ridge Farms and Sweeter Cards will drive innovative strategies, establishing a new industry standard and demonstrating the power of collaboration and forward-thinking solutions to create an epic branded food-gifting experience.”
The companies plan to introduce new gourmet treats within Sweeter Cards, featuring Maple Ridge Farms’ array of food components. This initiative aims to offer customers creative, premium-quality products in the under $15 category, addressing a growing need in the promotional products industry. According to Maple Ridge Farms, this collaboration is set to elevate its product offerings and customer experience.
Riordan added, “The superior quality, service, and charismatic vision of Stacy and Sweeter Cards align perfectly with the values Maple Ridge Farms has upheld for over 45 years. By leveraging our extensive and loyal customer base, we anticipate a significant increase in sales for Sweeter Cards, particularly in company stores and corporate programs.”
Both companies will continue to operate independently although Sweeter Cards will be available through Maple Ridge Farms. Distributors can continue to send Sweeter Cards orders to Sweeter Cards and Maple Ridge Farms orders to Maple Ridge Farms.
