Mercantile Bank Supports Promotion of Spanish Cheeses in the U.S. Market
- Mercantile Bank supported the promotion of Spanish cheeses at key U.S. food fairs, enhancing visibility and market presence.
- The campaign aims to increase exports of European cheeses, vital for Spanish dairy producers in the U.S. market.
- Participation in high-profile events like the 'Good Food Mercantile' reinforces connections with key stakeholders and potential buyers.
### Promoting Spanish Cheeses in the U.S. Market
The Interprofessional Dairy Organization (InLac) is actively promoting Spanish cheeses in the United States through a targeted campaign titled "Discover the European Cheestories." Supported by the European Union, the campaign seeks to enhance the visibility and market presence of these products across key U.S. food fairs, including the recently held 'Good Food Mercantile' and the 'Summer Fancy Food' events in New York. This initiative aligns with the growing demand for authentic and sustainable food options among American consumers, positioning European cheeses as premium choices in the competitive food industry.
At the 'Good Food Mercantile,' which took place on June 28, InLac showcased a variety of Spanish cheeses, including famous varieties such as PDO Arzúa-Ulloa, PDO Manchego, and PDO Mahón-Menorca. The event, led by InLac's managing director Nuria M. Arribas, provided visitors with tasting opportunities guided by certified cheese professional Erin T. Connolly. This direct engagement allows potential buyers to appreciate the unique flavors and quality of these cheeses, reinforcing the campaign's goal of deepening consumer connections and enhancing brand loyalty in the U.S. market.
The subsequent 'Summer Fancy Food' fair, which attracted over 7,700 industry professionals from June 29 to July 1, further underscored the versatility and quality of Spanish cheeses. Arribas emphasizes the importance of participating in such high-profile events to capture the attention of key stakeholders and buyers. Looking forward, the campaign will continue its outreach efforts in major U.S. cities like New York, Las Vegas, and Chicago, aiming for a significant increase in the exports of European cheeses, which already saw a volume rise of 6.95% in 2024, with the U.S. constituting a crucial market for Spanish dairy products.
In addition to these promotional activities, the campaign highlights the strategic importance of the U.S. market for European cheeses, with shipments to the country representing 14.45% of the total value and nearly 8% of the total volume of Spanish cheese exports. This initiative not only supports Spanish dairy producers but also aligns with global trends favoring high-quality, sustainable food products. As the campaign progresses until February 2026, it aims to solidify the position of European cheeses within the U.S. food landscape, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich culinary heritage of Spain.