Hundreds of students attended the Annual Vendor Market Showcase hosted by SBU Eats at East Side Dining on October 29. The event was part of the Retail Incubator Program and featured a range of products from local, women-owned, and minority-owned businesses. Attendees sampled snacks and treats that emphasized sustainability and community impact.
The showcase aimed to support small business growth while also promoting economic strength, environmental responsibility, and cultural diversity. Products from these vendors are available year-round at The Market at West Side and The Emporium at East Side.
Vendors included Like Air Puffcorn, Undercover Snacks, Brooklyn Delhi, Sucker Punch Pickles, Eleni’s Cookies, Tractor Organic Craft Beverages, Hal’s New York Kettle Chips, David Protein bars, Tastelli – Konjac Jelly, Wilde Brands Protein Chips, Liberty Coke, and f’real Shakes and Smoothies by Rich’s.
Markets are designed for students seeking convenient options that may not be found in traditional stores. Through the Retail Incubator Program, three different businesses are highlighted each month. Many products quickly become popular among students.
In October, Eleni’s Cookies, Elavi Protein Brownies and Free2Be Foods chocolate cups were featured. November will bring BarUEat, Salt of the Earth Bakery Cookies and Swoffle organic gluten-free stroopwafel snacks to campus markets. Swoffle offers a buy one, give one pledge that provides a meal to someone in need with every box purchased.
Jennifer Jones, Director of SBU Eats, selects market offerings based on trends such as convenience and high-protein content that appeal to Stony Brook University students.
“Students today are more intentional about what they buy. They want products that taste great and also align with their values around wellness and sustainability,” explained Jones. “We’re committed to making those better choices easy by offering innovative, health-focused, and eco-friendly options at both markets.”
Guests could scan a QR code to give feedback or suggest new products for campus markets. “I love keeping our product lineup fresh and exciting,” said Jones. “Each semester, I look for new items that resonate with students. For many, Stony Brook is their home away from home, and I want our markets to reflect the flavors and comforts they enjoy most.” A raffle was held during the event for a snowboard and snack basket donated by vendors.
A wellness table was also present where students met Kelsey Catalano, SBU Eats wellness coordinator, who offered samples of Made Good organic granola bites.
