Plum Market Founders to Speak at Community House

Matt and Marc Jonna, founders of Plum Market will be the featured guest speakers for the Distinguished Speakers Series, 7:30 a.m., Tuesday, March 20, at The Community House.

Learn how Matt and Marc Jonna, founders of Plum Market, have done what few have been able to do in these difficult years: find new revenue streams that have grown their company significantly. With over twenty years of experience in the food and beverage industry, Matt and Marc Jonna have their finger on the pulse of the market. Both worked in the family business, Merchant of Vino, a small wine and specialty gourmet shop. In 1998, Whole Foods purchased Merchant of Vino and Matt joined their National Operations Team, while Marc became the National Wine Buyer. After leaving Whole Foods Market, Matt and Marc Jonna began working toward revolutionizing the grocery business with a concept which combines luxury of specialty products and the convenience of everyday shopping. The result: Plum Market.  With three stores opened by 2009, Matt and Marc launched Plum Market Food Service in 2010 for schools and businesses—a natural and organic program to inspire healthier food choices—and continued to capitalize on growth opportunities recently launching the Ecommerce division of Plum Market in 2011.

 In this speaker series, the Jonnas will give the audience insights on how to keep an existing core business thriving, while strategically determining new lines of businesses to launch. As joint owners, the brothers will also reveal their approach to the do’s and don’ts of structuring a good partnership. One Jonna philosophy is to understand you are in a marathon versus a sprint, and to always welcome high quality competition.

"We are thrilled to host Marc and Matt Jonna as part of our Distinguished Speaker Series at TCH.  We look forward to hearing their insights on discovering new revenue streams in these challenging times, and applicable tips for having a successful business partnership," said Camille Jayne, President and CEO of The Community House.

The Distinguished Speaker Series is sponsored by Raymond James & Associates. The series is open to the public.  The event charge is $20 in advance, $25 at the door, and includes a light breakfast.  For reservations, contact The Community House 248-644-5832, or register online at www.tchserves.org.