We’re so excited to learn more about your journey building Farm to Fluffy!
Martie: What’s the mission behind Farm to Fluffy?
Kathryn: At Farm to Fluffy, our mission is to create nutritious, eco-friendly dog treats that pet parents can trust and pups will love. Rooted in compassion for animals and a commitment to sustainability, we use clean, upcycled ingredients and recycled packaging. We're dedicated to crafting products that celebrate the bond between pets and their families while contributing to a healthier planet, honoring our love for all creatures.
Martie: How did the idea come to life for your first product?
Kathryn: The idea itself actually came to me quite awhile ago during the pandemic. I had left Manhattan and returned to my hometown in Maine and was professionally in between jobs, trying to figure out my next step. I spent a lot of time taking long walks with my mom’s newyfpoo, Brooke (who happens to now be a brand dog for Farm to Fluffy!), and found myself listening to and inspired by entrepreneurial podcasts. At the same time, I happen to learn about upcycled ingredients and their importance in reducing food waste and impacting climate change. It was during one of these walks, the idea struck me for a potentially unique product idea that would speak to a wide consumer segment: eco-friendly dog treats that utilize upcycled ingredients. The name Farm to Fluffy shortly followed, playing on the idea of clean, wholesome ingredients and sustainable practices.
Martie: What are your customer’s favorite Farm to Fluffy treats?
Kathryn: Our grass-fed beef treats seem to be the fan favorite so far! I think both for the pups and their parents. Beef is the #1 ingredient in these treats and is sourced from New Zealand and Australia. What’s great about beef is that it contains fat, which can help dogs feel satisfied after eating. Beef fat also contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help with a dog's skin, coat, and joint health.
Martie: What has been your biggest “aha” moment when building Farm to Fluffy?
Kathryn: Realizing how much consumers value transparency in their products. When I was creating the recipes for the Farm to Fluffy treats with my co-packer, I really wanted clean, recognizable ingredients. I wanted dog parents to reach for Farm to Fluffy and pretty much know what they were buying. We kind of took the transparency priority a step further when we were designing the packaging. We created a pie chart on the back of the packaging showing the exact percent composition of every ingredient in the treats. Of all the positive feedback we have received so far, it has disproportionately been in regards to this particular feature.
Martie: What’s in the pipeline next for Farm to Fluffy?
Kathryn: So much is happening! On the direct-to-consumer side, we just launched our affiliate marketing program, hoping to partner with dog lovers, businesses, and non-profits. This summer we were vendors at three dog festivals. It was so fun and valuable having that in-person interaction with the customer. We also eventually will look at extending our product lines to planet-friendly dog toys and accessories. And once we get Taylor Swift onboard, we’d love to carry a cat line (lol). On the wholesale side of the business, we are continuing to sell directly to retail stores all over the country and currently are looking to partner with distributors. This summer, we also attended North America’s largest pet industry trade show in Las Vegas, sourcing new customers and making great connections in the pet world.
Martie: Why is working with Martie important to Farm to Fluffy?
Kathryn: Working with Martie feels like the perfect match for us. Martie’s mission to reduce food waste really speaks to us. Plus, they are providing us with an accessible distribution channel that is really helping our brand get visibility and traction. Also, when I first looked into Martie, I was really impressed seeing the caliber of brands and products that they carry, and so we are just really honored to be featured on this online marketplace!
