Food and service have a special place in Walter Brooks, Jr.’s heart. Today, he runs Brooksmade Gourmet Foods in Atlanta, Georgia, which exports clean-label condiments, sauces and rubs.
Walter grew up food insecure, knowing the importance of people having access to quality food options. In the spirit of healthy eating, he paired his entrepreneurial drive with his passion for the culinary arts – making sauces that are good for the soul. Brooksmade’s signature is its clean-label products, which are plant-based and centered on environment-friendly agricultural practices.
Culinary creations are not solely Brooksmade’s agricultural products – they help tell the story of Walter’s life experiences. “Our sauces are not just about taste; they embody a story of heritage, passion, and innovation,” Walter said. “By choosing our chef-created, clean-label products, customers not only elevate their dining experience but also support the growth of Black entrepreneurship. At Brooksmade, we are weaving a narrative that celebrates diversity, flavor and community, one delicious sauce at a time.”
Brooksmade’s sauces can be found on shelves and tables around the world, allowing everyone to create delicious soulful food in the comfort of their home. Walter began exporting in 2004 after he met buyers from Mexico, Brazil, and India at Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA) domestic trade shows. Later at USDA-sponsored trade shows, Walter forged some of his strongest international business partnerships.
Thanks to participating in Gulfood, a USDA-endorsed trade show in 2021, things have really taken off for Brooksmade’s products. Today, patrons can find the company’s sauces on their dinner plates in three different restaurants in the United Arab Emirates. “And now we’re in the process of opening a Brooksmade Gourmet Foods restaurant in Dubai,” Walter said.
In addition to running Brooksmade, Walter mentors aspiring entrepreneurs with the 100…
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