MBA students at Expo West traveling as part of the MBArk program, which hosted three Leeds MBA students this spring.
In March 2024, Anaheim, California hosted Expo West, one of the largest expositions of natural products in the world. This renowned trade show showcases cutting-edge trends, services, and technologies in the natural, organic, and healthy products sector. As part of the MBA program at the Leeds School of Business, the Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility (CESR) sponsored three students to attend, providing them with firsthand experience in this rapidly evolving industry. We had the opportunity to speak with Adam Testa, an evening MBA student and member of the Organics + Naturals MBA organization, and Sarah Arney, CESR’s Program Coordinator, about their goals and motivations for Expo West, and why attending this incredible exposition is an unmatched opportunity for students.
CESR: Could you talk about your interest in the natural products industry?
Adam Testa: In Boulder, I believe that we are at the epicenter of natural products. What draws me to the natural products field is that you meet the people making these types of companies and often they are the most passionate entrepreneurs you will meet in any industry. They choose the natural products industry because they usually have a personal issue that they are motivated to resolve. For example, if someone is lactose intolerant, has celiac disease, or seeks more suitable medicinal alternatives, this all motivates product innovation which is very intriguing. This industry is very inspiring, and I get inspired to make something that I am passionate about when I am around it.
CESR: What are your goals for attending Expo West?
Adam Testa: Expo West is a very special hub for the natural products industry. It provides a space where you can understand the community behind it and understand its trends. There are CEOs with whom you can freely discuss their motivations and what values they hold. I would say that if you are looking to become involved with natural and organics space, attending Expo West is a must simply to understand the world you are preparing to enter. As for more personal goals, the more I am around passionate entrepreneurs, the more I am pushed to pursue what I am passionate about. Expo West is an excellent platform to interact with such individuals.
"This industry is very inspiring, and I get inspired to make something that I am passionate about when I am around it."
-says Adam Testa
CESR: What goals do you hope to pursue after completing the MBA program?
Adam Testa: Ultimately, I would love to begin a business dealing with consumer-packaged goods (CPG). In the meantime, however, I aim to continue developing my marketing skillset as a strategist and begin an entrepreneurial endeavor of my own. Right now, I am passionate about individual health, specifically making your body last. Things like having poor posture, for example, could ultimately lead to back or knee pain later in life. This is a space I am interested in exploring further with a future business.
I am also open to a variety of other ideas. Another incredible aspect of Expo West is the ability for exploration and discovery. With over 60,000 attendees and countless booths demonstrating differing products and services, you are bound to be inspired.
CESR: Why should students consider careers in the natural products industry? What are some of the main draws of this field?
Sarah Arney: The natural products industry is continually growing and expanding. Students at CU are particularly well placed to enter this industry given the many natural product companies launching and operating here in Boulder County. This field represents a great opportunity to make a positive impact through business, enabling and encouraging people to make sustainable and healthy choices.
CESR: How was your Expo West experience and why do you believe it is valuable for students to attend?
Sarah Arney: It’s difficult to imagine the scale of the industry and the incredible breadth of business opportunities until you see so many up-and-coming and established brands gathered in one place. Students who attend Expo West make important professional connections that can lead to job opportunities in marketing, finance, supply chain, sustainability, and much more.
CESR: What advice do you have for students who are interested in getting into the natural products industry?
Sarah Arney: This industry is so supportive of people who have a passion for the business of healthy and sustainable living. If you are interested in this industry, CESR can help you get connected to industry experts that share your passion and can help you navigate your career path.
"It’s difficult to imagine the scale of the industry and the incredible breadth of business opportunities until you see so many up-and-coming and established brands gathered in one place. "
-says Sarah Arney
CESR: Could you talk about the Natural and Organic Pathway as a whole?
Sarah Arney: The Natural and Organic Pathways offers experiential learning opportunities and industry expert connections to tailor your MBA experience to your interest in sustainable, natural, and ethically sourced products. In addition to partnering with MBArk to Expo West, Natural & Organic students can also take advantage of the rich natural products community that exists in Boulder, through local treks to natural product companies, as well as CESR’s many industry connections.
Expo West poses itself as not only an incredible opportunity for professionals already operating in the natural & organics space, but also for individuals interested in dipping their toes into this vast field of innovation and technological development.
Learn more about CESR’s Natural and Organic Pathway for MBA Students and explore other sustainability-focused articles on the CESR Blog.