The Hazleton Kitchen Incubator welcomes its newest client, Alfa Foods, LLC. This small, food manufacturing business is owned and operated by area native, Alejandro Llerena, and specializes in crafting various meat products, including hot dogs, ham, sausage, salami, chorizo, bacon, jerky, and jerky sausages, which are all made from premium ingredients such as pork, beef, and chicken.

With a commitment to quality and innovation, Alejandro has worked diligently to bring his culinary dreams to life. "I am happy to embark on this journey with Alfa Foods," said Llerena. "My mission is to provide the community with exceptional meat products that stand out in both flavor and uniqueness…selling my products in a niche other companies won't do."

Alfa Foods is currently in its sampling phase, which includes perfecting recipes and designing labels to go on its packaging. Mr. Llerena aims to have his products readily accessible to the public very soon.

Llerena credits the Hazleton Kitchen Incubator, THInC (The Hazleton Innovation Collaborative), and CAN DO’s assistance as instrumental in the inception and nourishment of his business. Upon learning about the Kitchen Incubator, Llerena reached out to CAN DO’s Director of Economic Development, Jocelyn Sterenchock, and Business Finance Specialist, Nico Makuta, who recognized the potential of his venture. Guiding him through the entire process, the Kitchen Incubator provided Alejandro with access to a fully-equipped commercial kitchen, invaluable mentorship, and a platform to navigate a food-based business's regulations and licensing requirements.

Inspiration from his wife and guidance from the shared kitchen set Alejandro’s entrepreneurial journey in motion. "I am sure that the Kitchen Incubator is the best option for a small food business in Hazleton,” Llerena shared. “[They] promote small businesses to help the local economy and make it possible for those small businesses to grow with the help of professionals and expert advice.”

 

Llerena’s immediate goals for Alfa Foods include establishing a firm foothold in the market by ensuring product excellence, streamlining administrative processes, and identifying unique niches that set his business apart. He also hopes to achieve sustainable growth and make steady strides in response to market demand. Llerena envisions reinvesting revenues to expand production capacity further while exploring opportunities for potential financial support, such as small business loans or venture investments, to enhance the business's trajectory.

 

For more information about the Hazleton Kitchen, the CAN BE Innovation Center, or starting a business within the Greater Hazleton Area, visit canbe.biz or contact Nico Makuta at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..