Launch fewer, bigger, better products.

Starday is the AI-powered innovation partner built by F&B operators.

Capitalizing on an emerging trend

Partner: Fortune 50 Retailer

Scope: Innovation Strategy, Product Strategy, Product Development, Launch   

Time to Value: 6 Months, kickoff to pilot

Summary: We saw an opportunity to expand share of wallet among households with kids. At the nexus of our data analysis and expert translation, we identified an acute need for school-safe, allergen free savory snacks. We developed Habeya sweet potato crackers, packed with nutrients and free of the top 9 allergens.

Results:

  • Distribution: 1300 stores in first 6 months

  • Velocity: Original SKY turns in top 1/3 of category, alongside Annie’s Cheddar Bunnies

  • Repeat Purchase: RPR pacing with sales growth, indicating customer loyalty

Disrupting a stagnant category

Scope: Innovation Strategy, Product Strategy, Product Development, Launch   

Time to Value: 6 Months, kickoff to pilot

Summary: We identified an opportunity to address the fail-points of the plant-based protein category, and export those solutions to an adjacent category ripe for innovation: salad toppers. We launched a chickpea-based seasoning topper that delivers clean protein in a versatile format, designed for frequent consumption across meal types.

Results:

  • Retail Acceptances: Pre-launch acceptance to Sprouts Farmers Market

  • Velocity: #4 in category velocity, 72% above average in first 6 months

Capturing demand in a high-growth category

Partner: Haru Foods

Scope: Innovation Strategy, Product Strategy   

Time to Value: 2 Weeks

Summary: We identified clear whitespace for our client in the growing, but crowded, matcha category. We helped shift the client's product brief from freeze-dried matcha drops to a “barista quality” latte mix with a creamy taste and mouthfeel that emulates the cafe beverages consumers love.

Results:

  • Speed: 40% less R&D time vs. baseline, enabling concept to launch in 6 months

  • Executive Buy-in: Enabled partner to align leadership and cross-functional decision-makers

  • R&D Direction: Led partner to move away from an expensive form factor