January 27, 2005

Former Film Producer Re-Launches Veteran Biscotti Company
Karen Robert Jackson and Crunchy Foods take Biscotti di Suzy to next level

San Francisco , CA — Check out the new owner of Crunchy Foods. She’s an award-winning producer of the hit movie, “Toy Story 2.” Yes, you’ve read that correctly. For years, Karen Robert Jackson has had the dream of owning her own company and now that dream has finally come true.

After 15 years in the film and production business, Jackson left the industry in 2003. “I enjoyed every minute of my time in advertising and film production, but I knew that when I was no longer willing to devote 110 percent of my time to it, it was time to move on,” says Jackson. “My husband and I had talked about going into business together for years. Our skill sets complement one another so we thought working together would come naturally. I love the food industry and I’ve always wanted to own my own food company.”

When the previous owners of Biscotti di Suzy decided they were ready to retire, an opportunity presented itself. Suddenly the Jacksons had their chance to work together, and they had the opportunity to also take a product that was well regarded, with lots of loyal customers, and re-invigorate the brand. They jumped at the chance to acquire the company.

Since February of 2004 they have worked hard to re-introduce the brand with exciting new packaging, expanded presence at trade shows and advertising with Specialty Food Magazine. In addition, they are expanding their distributor and broker network, and constantly prospecting for new customers.

“We have a great biscotti, with a distinctive taste and texture. I know that once people try it, it will become a favorite,” says Jackson.

Prior to acquiring Crunchy Foods, Jackson spent the bulk of her career at Pixar Animation Studios. As producer of “Toy Story 2”, Jackson received a Golden Globe Award for Best Picture/Musical or Comedy. The film also received an award for Best Animated Film from the Broadcast Film Critics, and nominations from the Academy Awards and from the British Academy Awards.

And before the making of “Toy Story 2,” Jackson was the production supervisor for “Toy Story.” “Toy Story” was the top grossing film for 1995 and was nominated for three Academy Awards. Jackson worked her way up the film ladder as an assistant producer at Colossal Pictures where she began honing her skills in advertising and film production.

Jackson has a BA in Economics from Stanford University. She and her husband, Larry, have two sons, ages nine and seven. Jackson enjoys her duties as chauffeur for her sons’ basketball and baseball games, piano practices and numerous field trips. Her passion for food shows as she loves to cook and develop new recipes. Jackson and her family reside in Oakland, Calif.

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