Problem:
IPT currently sells the following products:
Flavored popcorn - in addition to common flavors such as butter, cheese, and caramel, they have patented a process for getting both thicker (chocolate) and finer (confectioners sugar) coatings to stick to the popcorn without damaging it
Snack sized pretzels, also coated with sweet and savory flavors
Cookies - IPT has subcontracted with a local bakery to produce a variety of cookies
IPT is based in Havertown, Pennsylvania and has several storefronts in and around Philadelphia. They sell the products at the storefront locations and take phone orders for delivery in the area. They also sell their products in bulk to local gift basket producers and caterers.
New Product Rollout
IPT is considering signing a contract with an Amish food manufacturer to supply typical "Pennsylvania Dutch" treats such as shoofly pie, horehound candy, and various jams and jellies. (Note: There is a substantial Amish community in nearby Lancaster, Pennsylvania, who are commonly referred to as Pennsylvania Dutch). IPT still considers itself a local, Philadelphia company and feels that the addition of Pennsylvania Dutch products will garner more local customers.
On the other hand, IPT's owner, Kiana Peterson, has been thinking of expanding the retail business to the regional/national level. She would like to test-market first in the tri-state area (Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware) and possibly expand north and south into New York and DC Metro.