Chris Brockel and The Feed Kitchen Story

Chris Brockel, the Food Systems Director for the Madison Northside Planning Council, recently shared insights into his work at Feed Kitchens and the evolution of food entrepreneurship in Madison, Wisconsin. His journey started in a small town in Wisconsin and eventually took him to the role he plays today, where he manages Feed Kitchens, a food business incubator, and the Healthy Food for All food recovery program.

Brockel's experience is rich with changes and adaptations prompted by both personal and market factors. Initially, he dedicated his professional life to nonprofits and, after various roles, found himself at the helm of Feed Kitchens, which opened in November 2013. Over the years, he witnessed a significant transformation in the local food scene, particularly following the pandemic. Pre-COVID, there were about 60-70 vendors at Feed Kitchens, but that number surged to 90 as the demand for food services changed. Many individuals turned to baking and food entrepreneurship during the pandemic, leading to an influx of new operators in the food space.

He highlighted the unique dynamics of Feed Kitchens, which serves a diverse array of food entrepreneurs, from bakers to food trucks. The pandemic acted as a catalyst for aspiring food business owners to break away from traditional restaurant jobs and take control of their culinary destinies. Brockel emphasizes the role of changing consumer behaviors and new food-related laws that have fostered a thriving food entrepreneurship environment.

Through Feed Kitchens, Brockel and his team have not only supported the growth of individual food businesses but also addressed the important issue of food recovery and distribution. The Healthy Food for All program aims to tackle food insecurity by collecting surplus produce from local farms and ensuring it reaches those in need. This dual focus on entrepreneurship and food recovery exemplifies Brockel's commitment to improving the local food landscape while maintaining a sustainable approach.

Brockel’s insights shed light on the importance of community support and infrastructure in building a vibrant and resilient food ecosystem, highlighting the ongoing growth and evolution of Wisconsin's food scene in the face of challenges.