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10 Best Food Marketing Agencies to Spice Things Up [Guide + Case Study]

By Adrienne Bosch Last updated: 22 minute read Marketing Agencies

In today’s rapidly expanding food and beverage landscape, standing out from the crowd has become more challenging than ever, especially as the projected growth rate of the food and beverage market volume will increase by 12.06% per year from 2022 to 2027.

With such a booming backdrop, the heat is truly on for food brands to master the art of marketing. This is precisely where a food marketing agency can be the game-changer.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into what makes food marketing unique and review the top food marketing agencies that have proven their mettle in culinary marketing.

Each of these agencies brings its own flavor and expertise to the table, catering to the dynamic needs of food brands in this digital age.

Ready to pepper your restaurant’s marketing strategy with expert insights and a dash of innovation?

Let’s get right into it!

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    Food Marketing & Current Trends in the Food Industry

    As the world’s culinary tastes evolve, so does the landscape of the food industry and its marketing tactics.

    Societal changes, technological advancements, and the shifting preferences of consumers impact both spheres.

    Here’s a more in-depth look at the trends shaping the food industry and the unique facets of food marketing:

    Emerging Trends in the Food Industry

    Sustainability and Issues Related to Food Waste

    Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore, with 65% of all consumers choosing to buy sustainable food products. As awareness about the planet’s fragility grows, consumers make conscious choices.

    They seek brands that prioritize eco-friendly sourcing, employ biodegradable or reusable packaging, and focus on reducing their carbon footprint.

    Moreover, sustainable practices extend beyond production. They touch on waste management, energy consumption, and even employee welfare, ensuring a holistic approach to a better tomorrow.

    A Move Toward More Health-Conscious Food Choices

    Consumers are becoming more aware of the contents of the products they consume as information becomes more readily available, with half of all consumers focused on the health factors of the foods they purchase.

    Organic farming, non-GMO products, and plant-based alternatives are no longer niche markets. They’re mainstream demands. From kale smoothies to cauliflower pizza bases, healthier options are taking center stage, balancing taste with nutrition.

    Tech at the Table: Food and Technology

    The marriage of technology and food is a match made in heaven. AI-driven apps can recommend personalized diets based on user preferences and health requirements. Drones deliver fresh produce to doorsteps, and augmented reality enhances dining experiences.

    Furthermore, technology ensures transparency. Blockchain, for instance, allows a consumer to trace a product’s journey from farm to fork, ensuring authenticity and quality.

    A Demand for Crystal Clear Transparency

    Today’s consumer is informed, curious, and demanding. Brands can no longer hide behind vague labels.

    They are expected to be open about everything, from sourcing practices, ingredient lists, environmental impact, and social responsibility.

    This demand for transparency has given rise to certifications, detailed labeling, and open-door (or open-kitchen) policies.

    To take a deeper look at food industry trends, check out this video by SupHerb Farms.

    What is Food Marketing? The Unique Aspects of Food Marketing

    Food Marketing is All About the Senses

    A food and beverage branding agency understands marketing food is about romancing all five senses.

    A well-crafted food advertisement showcases the sizzle of a steak, the vibrant colors of a salad, the velvety texture of chocolate mousse, and the aroma of freshly baked bread.

    It’s an art form where marketers craft a sensory experience before the consumer takes the first bite.

    Dishing Out Emotions

    Every bite has a story. Maybe it’s grandma’s cookie recipe, a trip to the Mediterranean, or a college midnight snack. Food evokes memories; a smart food marketing agency taps into these emotional reservoirs.

    Branding narratives and experiences into their products fosters deeper connections and creates customer-centric experiences, turning meals into moments and dishes into stories.

    Promises of Wellness

    In an age of wellness, every ingredient counts. Marketers emphasize the health benefits of their offerings, turning the spotlight on antioxidants, omega-3s, fiber content, and more.

    This focus isn’t just about health; it’s about empowerment. It tells consumers that by choosing this product, they’re making a favorable decision for their well-being.

    Constant Culinary Evolution

    The world of food is ever-evolving, with fusion cuisines, avant-garde gastronomy, and innovative flavors emerging continuously.

    This dynamism ensures that food marketers are always on their toes, introducing new products, reinventing classics, and enticing consumers with the next big culinary delight.

    Food Industry Trends & Food Marketing

    The culinary world constantly changes and adapts to societal changes and technological advancements. One notable trend is the increasing preference for sustainable food choices among consumers. People are also demanding greater transparency from brands, wanting to know more about the origins and production processes of the food they consume.

    10 Best Food Marketing Agencies

    1. The Food Group

    The Food Group Food maraketing agency Logo

    The Food Group

    New York, New York, USA

    Our Score

    4.7

     

    AGENCY SNAPSHOT

    Founded: 1968

    Locations: New York, USA

    Number of employees: 51-200

    KEY SERVICES

    • Media Services
    • Advertising
    • Public Relations
    • Strategic Planning
    • Branding
    • Interactive/Web
    • Events
    • Culinary
    • Creative

    NOTEWORTHY CLIENTS

    • SaltWorks
    • Mondelēz
    • TABASCO
    • arm Promise
    • Plugrá

    WHY CHOOSE THEM?

    While specific clients are not listed in the reference provided, The Food Group boasts a legacy of working with some of the world’s most iconic food brands and beverage clients.

    Established in 1968, The Food Group stands out as a premier full-service marketing agency that uniquely marries food, culture, and marketing expertise.

    Their passion is unmistakably driven by food, and this enthusiasm translates into powerful integrated strategies that have nurtured some of the world’s most iconic food and beverage brands.

    Offering a comprehensive suite of services, from advertising to branding and strategic planning to public relations, they pride themselves on being more than just an agency; they’re partners in their clients’ success.

    With a robust team, they ensure brands connect meaningfully with audiences, creating lasting impacts in a constantly evolving market as the best food marketing agency.

    The Food Group Food maraketing agency Homepage
    Source: The Food Group

    2. Flightpath

    Flightpath Logo

    Flightpath

    New York, New York, USA

    Our Score

    4.6

     

    AGENCY SNAPSHOT

    Founded: 1994

    Locations: New York, New York, USA

    Number of employees: 11-50

    KEY SERVICES

    • Digital Strategy
    • Digital Marketing
    • Social Media & Content Marketing
    • Paid Social Campaigns
    • Targeted Email Campaigns
    • Website & UX Design

    NOTEWORTHY CLIENTS

    • Goya Foods
    • Nabisco
    • Organic Girl

    WHY CHOOSE THEM?

    Flightpath harnesses the power of digital inventiveness to deliver tangible business value, especially for notable food brands. Their adeptness in blending emotional understanding with digital strategy ensures that brands achieve significant online traction, leading to awareness, lead generation, and consistent customer acquisition.

    Flightpath, nestled in the bustling heart of New York, has etched its mark as a formidable digital marketing agency since its inception in 1994.

    Catering to both B2C and B2B audiences, they seamlessly navigate the intricacies of the digital realm, positioning food brands for amplified awareness and sustainable growth.

    Their approach is a confluence of strategic planning, empathetic design, and astute analysis, ensuring that each brand’s digital journey resonates with its audience.

    Moreover, their extensive work with prominent food brands, such as Goya Foods and Nabisco, underlines their food and drink marketing prowess, making them an ideal choice for brands eager to savor digital success.

    Flightpath Homepage
    Source: Flightpath

    3. Amra & Elma

    Amra & Elma Logo

    Amra & Elma

    New York, New York, USA

    Our Score

    4.6

     

    AGENCY SNAPSHOT

    Founded: 2012

    Locations: New York, New York, USA

    Number of employees: 11-50

    KEY SERVICES

    • Media Buying
    • Influencer Marketing Campaigns
    • Public Relations & Crisis Management
    • Brand Building
    • Search Engine Optimization

    NOTEWORTHY CLIENTS

    • Nestle
    • Acqua Panna
    • Emmy’s Organics
    • Power Up Snacks
    • Uber Eats

    WHY CHOOSE THEM?

    Amra & Elma, helmed by celebrity influencers, is a full-service digital marketing agency renowned for its expertise in food branding. Leveraging their vast social media presence and insight, they excel in creating strategies that resonate with target audiences, helping food brands maximize their ROI and deepen customer trust.

    Amra & Elma stands out as one of the leading food marketing agencies in New York, delivering tangible results through high-impact digital marketing strategies.

    Established by celebrity influencers Amra and Elma Beganovich, the agency uniquely combines their over 2 million followers’ influence with results-driven approaches.

    Their strategic insights and tailored solutions have attracted industry giants, from Nestle to Uber Eats.

    With a proven track record, a vast array of services, and recognition from top-tier publications like Forbes, Bloomberg, and Business Insider, Amra & Elma continue to shape the digital landscape of food marketing, ensuring their clients are always ahead in a competitive market.

    Amra & Elma Homepage
    Source: Amra & Elma

    4. New Point Marketing

    New Point Marketing Logo

    New Point Marketing

    Lafayette, Indiana, USA

    Our Score

    4.5

     

    AGENCY SNAPSHOT

    Founded: 2016

    Locations: Lafayette, Indiana, USA

    Number of employees: 11-50

    KEY SERVICES

    • Brand Positioning
    • Digital Marketing
    • SEM (Search Engine Marketing)
    • Branded Packaging
    • Design Development

    NOTEWORTHY CLIENTS

    • Walmart
    • Kroger
    • Coupons.com
    • Wick’s
    • Kentucky Legend

    WHY CHOOSE THEM?

    New Point Marketing offers a holistic approach for CPG food and beverage brands, emphasizing top-notch marketing strategies and establishing powerful connections with prominent retailers. Their expertise ensures that brands stand out and achieve substantial growth and impactful market presence.

    Situated in Lafayette, Indiana, New Point Marketing has rapidly established itself as a beacon for growth-driven CPG food and beverage brands since its inception in 2016.

    Their distinct approach blends traditional marketing techniques with strategic retailer connections, ensuring that brands resonate with their target audience and achieve a broad market reach.

    Their partnerships with retail giants like Walmart and Kroger speak volumes about their capability to execute high-impact strategies.

    New Point Marketing ensures that food and beverage brands are poised for exponential growth and success through meticulous brand positioning, striking branded packaging, or advanced digital marketing campaigns.

    New Point Marketing homepage
    Source: New Point Marketing

    5. KlientBoost

    KlientBoost Lgo

    KlientBoost

    Costa Mesa, California, USA

    Our Score

    4.5

     

    AGENCY SNAPSHOT

    Founded: 2015

    Locations: Costa Mesa, California, USA

    Number of employees: 51-200

    KEY SERVICES

    • Google AdWords
    • PPC Marketing
    • Email Marketing
    • SEO
    • CRO (Conversion Rate Optimization)

    NOTEWORTHY CLIENTS

    • Mikkeller
    • Mountain Wild
    • 2ndKitchen

    WHY CHOOSE THEM?

    KlientBoost stands out with its unparalleled commitment to generating more ROI. Boasting an impressive average of a 63% ROI increase for clients within their first three months, they have a robust portfolio of wins across numerous industries, including the food and beverages sector.

    KlientBoost, headquartered in the vibrant city of Costa Mesa, California, has rapidly emerged as a leading digital performance marketing agency since its foundation in 2015.

    With a mantra of always experimenting to enhance results, they employ a unique blend of strategies across Google AdWords, PPC, and SEO, to name a few.

    KlientBoost’s prowess is evident from the myriad of case studies, testimonials, and positive reviews they have garnered over the years.

    Their dedication to achieving superior ROI is particularly evident in their collaborations within the food and beverage industry, partnering with brands like Mikkeller and 2ndKitchen.

    Their proficiency and innovative approach ensure that the brands they partner with always remain at the forefront of their respective industries.

    KlientBoost Homepage
    Source: KlientBoost

    6. SPRIM FOOD

    SPRIM Logo

    SPRIM FOOD

    Madrid, Spain

    Our Score

    4.4

     

    AGENCY SNAPSHOT

    Founded: 2001

    Locations: Madrid, Spain, with global offices in London, New York, Milan, and more.

    Number of employees: 151-200

    KEY SERVICES

    • Strategy & Innovation
    • Food Science Services
    • Communication Campaigns for Food Brands
    • Food Content & Copywriting
    • Design & Digital Studio Solutions
    • Influencer Marketing & Opinion Leaders Management
    • Digital Marketing

    NOTEWORTHY CLIENTS

    • Not Listed

    WHY CHOOSE THEM?

    SPRIM FOOD stands out as a leading food marketing agency with a foundation built on integrating food science and marketing. Their comprehensive approach, from strategy formulation to digital marketing and crisis management, ensures that food brands achieve unparalleled visibility, interaction, and trust with their stakeholders.

    Positioned prominently in the global food marketing landscape, SPRIM FOOD is not just another marketing agency but an institution of expertise and innovation.

    With its roots in Madrid and extending its reach to global metropolises like London, New York, and Milan, SPRIM FOOD has been the driving force behind countless successful campaigns, particularly for the food and retail sectors.

    Their prowess lies in their intricate blend of food science knowledge with unparalleled marketing strategies.

    SPRIM FOOD’s holistic approach ranges from impactful communication campaigns to scientific content creation, design solutions, and extensive digital marketing strategies, ensuring that brands resonate with their target audience and achieve a lasting imprint in the ever-competitive market.

    With an array of esteemed clients and a vast network of influencers and experts, SPRIM FOOD’s reputation as a leading food marketing agency remains unchallenged.

    SPRIM FOOD Homepage
    Source: SPRIM FOOD

    7. Elevation Marketing

    Elevation Marketing logo

    Elevation Marketing

    Gilbert, Arizona, USA

    Our Score

    4.4

     

    AGENCY SNAPSHOT

    Founded: 1999

    Locations: Gilbert, Arizona, USA

    Number of employees: 11-50

    KEY SERVICES

    • Public Relations
    • Branding
    • Inbound Marketing
    • Social Media Marketing

    NOTEWORTHY CLIENTS

    • Coca-Cola
    • Kraft
    • Conagra Brands
    • Kerrygold

    WHY CHOOSE THEM?

    With its deep-rooted expertise in the B2B space, Elevation Marketing provides a strategic and integrated approach that bridges the gap between sales and marketing. With a legacy of working with industry leaders, especially in the food and beverage sector, Elevation Marketing emerges as a reliable partner for businesses aiming to achieve a substantial market impact.

    Established in 1999 and headquartered in Gilbert, Arizona, Elevation Marketing is a beacon of innovation in the B2B marketing landscape.

    Their ethos, built around insight, innovation, and impact, has positioned them as one of the premier B2B marketing agencies in the US.

    Elevation Marketing’s commitment to understanding the unique challenges of the B2B space, crafting compelling brand narratives, and executing strategies with precision has earned them partnerships with some of the industry’s biggest names, including giants in the food and beverage sector like Coca-Cola and Kraft.

    Their holistic approach, which blends data-driven strategies with exceptional creative design, empowers businesses to foster enduring customer relationships and achieve lasting success.

    Elevation Marketing Homepage
    Source: Elevation Marketing

    8. Meyrocks

    Meyocks Logo

    Meyrocks

    West Des Moines, Iowa, USA

    Our Score

    4.3

     

    AGENCY SNAPSHOT

    Founded: 1984

    Locations: West Des Moines, Iowa, USA

    Number of employees: 51-200

    KEY SERVICES

    • Public Relations
    • Direct Marketing
    • Web Development
    • Package Design
    • Food Marketing

    NOTEWORTHY CLIENTS

    • Hy-Vee’s
    • Drago GT
    • GRINNELL
    • Farm Credit Services of America
    • Ag Direct

    WHY CHOOSE THEM?

    Meyocks stands out as a food, agriculture, health, and mentor branding specialist. With a deep-rooted understanding of the broader implications of food, the agency leverages its expertise to help brands create a profound connection with their audience.

    Established in 1984, Meyocks operates out of West Des Moines, Iowa, as a stalwart in the world of food branding and marketing.

    Delving deep into the essence of food and its broader societal implications, Meyocks transcends basic marketing strategies to resonate with audiences truly.

    Their tailored approach caters not just to brands that produce but to those that nurture and enrich the global community.

    Whether it’s through distinctive package design, innovative web development, or impactful public relations campaigns, Meyocks promises a brand presence that genuinely means more.

    Meyocks Homepage
    Source: Meyocks

    9. Forge Digital Marketing

    Forge Digital Marketing logo

    Forge Digital Marketing

    Naperville, Illinois, USA

    Our Score

    4.2

     

    AGENCY SNAPSHOT

    Founded: 2016

    Locations: Naperville, Illinois, USA

    Number of employees: 2-10

    KEY SERVICES

    • Social Media Marketing
    • Website & Mobile Development
    • Content Marketing
    • Graphic Design
    • Digital Advertising

    NOTEWORTHY CLIENTS

    • Fly Alliance
    • Botanical Remedies
    • Jake Paul
    • Club 13
    • OhSoTasty

    WHY CHOOSE THEM?

    Forge Digital Marketing stands apart with its distinctive blend of data-driven analytics and creative strategies, tailoring its services to meet unique business needs. Their approach identifies where a brand’s audience resides in the digital space and innovates to magnify the brand’s essence, ensuring a tangible impact in the food and beverage sector.

    Established in 2016 in Naperville, Illinois, Forge Digital Marketing has become a recognized entity in the digital marketing sector.

    With a focus on understanding and connecting with audiences, Forge has developed strategies that align particularly well with the food and beverage industry.

    Using a combination of data analysis, creativity, and current tactics, the agency works on strengthening brand identities.

    Their services range from social media campaigns and content marketing to website development, all aimed at effectively conveying a brand’s message to its audience.

    Forge Digital Marketing Homepage
    Source: Forge Digital Marketing

    10. Redonk Marketing

    Redonk Marketing Food Marketing Agency Logo

    Redonk Marketing

    Plano, Texas, USA

    Our Score

    4.0 

     

    AGENCY SNAPSHOT

    Founded: 2002

    Locations: Plano, Texas, USA

    Number of employees: 11-50

    KEY SERVICES

    • Branding
    • Motion Design
    • User Journey Mapping
    • Content Strategy
    • Brand Planning
    • Product UI Design

    NOTEWORTHY CLIENTS

    • Pizza Hut
    • metroPCS
    • PURE STORAGE
    • NEC
    • VERITAS
    • Dell

    WHY CHOOSE THEM?

    Redonk Marketing distinguishes itself as a no-nonsense digital experience agency that adeptly navigates both the tech and food industries. With their comprehensive suite of services, they promise digital excellence and a profound understanding of customer journeys, ensuring deeper brand connections and business growth.

    Positioned as a straight-talking digital experience agency with experience as a food marketing agency, Redonk Marketing brings clarity and precision to the often chaotic world of digital marketing.

    Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Plano, Texas, they’ve consistently demonstrated their expertise in the food and tech sectors.

    With a rich portfolio that boasts illustrious names such as MetroPCS, Hewlett-Packard, and Pizza Hut, Redonk emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader context of a customer’s journey.

    By marrying this insight with their extensive services, from UX design to strategic planning, they craft brand experiences that resonate, foster loyalty, and catalyze business growth.

    In a digital age awash with buzzwords and fleeting trends, Redonk’s no-bull approach stands out, making it a prime choice for brands that seek authenticity, expertise, and tangible results in food marketing.

    Redonk Marketing Homepage
    Source: Redonk Marketing

    An Example of Food Marketing: Beyond Meat’s Strategic Marketing Success

    There are many, many examples of food marketing in action, but when it comes to strategic marketing, Beyond Meat is a great food marketing case study to learn from:

    Food Marketing Case Study: Beyond Meat’s Plant-Based Revolution Through Strategic Marketing

    Beyond Meat Marketing Advertisement
    Source: Indigo 9 Digital

    Background

    Beyond Meat, founded in 2009, has started revolutionizing the food industry with its range of plant-based meat substitutes.

    Its purpose was simple: to address climate change, human health, resource conservation, and animal welfare by developing goods that do not rely on animals.

    The Challenge

    The meat alternative market was niche; many had tried and failed to appeal to a broader audience.

    Beyond Meat wanted to position itself as “not just as another vegan option” but as a genuine meat alternative that would appeal to meat lovers too.

    Strategy

    Product Positioning: Beyond Meat products weren’t placed in grocery stores’ vegan or vegetarian sections. Instead, they took a bold step, placing their burgers next to traditional meat products, signaling that they were a direct substitute, not a niche alternative.

    Taste Testimonials: Beyond Meat heavily relied on taste testimonials, focusing on their products’ flavor profile and texture. This was important because they wanted to win over vegetarians and meat-eaters.

    Collaborations and Partnerships: Beyond Meat partnered with popular fast-food chains and restaurants, such as Dunkin’, Carl’s Jr., and TGI Fridays. These collaborations provided the brand with a mainstream platform and greater visibility.

    Transparency: The brand was open about its ingredients, emphasizing the health benefits without compromising taste. Their website and marketing materials compare the nutrients in their products to those in traditional Meat.

    Celebrity Endorsements: Beyond Meat utilized endorsements from celebrities and athletes who vouched for the products’ taste, quality, and benefits. These endorsements served to amplify their message to a broader audience.

    Results

    • Beyond Meat became a household name.
    • Their sales skyrocketed, selling their products in 112,000 outlets across 85 countries.
    • The brand received widespread media coverage for its successful marketing efforts and environmental impact.

    Key Takeaways

    Beyond Meat’s success demonstrates the power of positioning, strategic partnerships, and a clear brand message. They were able to carve out a sizable niche in a market where conventional meat products predominated by understanding their audience, being honest, and delivering a product that lived up to the hype.

    Conclusion

    In the dynamic landscape of the food industry, the role of a proficient food marketing agency cannot be overstated.

    These agencies bridge brands and consumers, navigating the intricate web of trends, preferences, and societal shifts to craft messages that resonate and campaigns that captivate.

    As brands grapple with evolving consumer demands and the constant need for innovation, partnering with a seasoned food marketing agency can make all the difference.

    Such collaboration ensures that brands stay ahead of the curve but also assists them in forging genuine connections with their audience, turning casual customers into loyal brand advocates.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the best food marketing agency for your brand?

    The best food marketing agency for your brand depends on your specific needs and goals. Agencies like The Food Group, Tastefully Inspired, and Bigeye have shown significant success in the food sector. It's essential to consider factors like the agency's track record, their understanding of your target market, their creative approach, and, importantly, their alignment with your brand values and vision. Conduct thorough research, meet with potential agencies, and ask for case studies or references to make an informed decision. Read the full guide to find the food and drink marketing agency for you.

    How does food marketing differ from other types of marketing?

    Food marketing is unique because it appeals to the senses and evokes emotions, memories, and cultural associations. While most marketing endeavors to create a need or desire, food marketing often taps into existing cravings, memories, and experiences. It also has to address specific challenges like the perishability of products, regulatory restrictions on health claims, and rapidly changing consumer preferences related to health and sustainability. Check out the full guide for more information.

    Why is understanding current food trends vital for effective food marketing?

    Current food trends provide insights into consumer preferences, behaviors, and values. By aligning marketing strategies with these trends, brands can ensure they're meeting customer demands, staying relevant, and fostering genuine connections. Whether it's the rise of plant-based diets, the focus on sustainability, or the emergence of global flavors, being in tune with trends allows for timely and resonant marketing campaigns. Read the full guide to find the best food marketing agency for your needs.

    References

    Statista: Food & Drink – Worldwide | Statista Market Forecast

    Quinoa Marketing: Beyond Meat: Analysis of a Successful Marketing Strategy — Quinoa Marketing

    McKinsey & Company: Hungry and confused: The winding road to conscious eating | McKinsey

    Forbs: Sustainable Food Trends Will Become Center Of The Plate With Modern Consumers (forbes.com)