photo by steed media service

President/CEO, Smokin-Joe Products, LLC.

Smokin-Joe’s Products has a very special history. As an entrepreneur, Derryl Reed found himself in a unique position. “The company was originally started by a gentleman named Frank Walker,” says Reed. “Frank and I had been good friends since college. [He] passed this past March and I’ve taken over operations since then.” The company, originally named Max Sales, was re-launched as Smokin-Joe’s Products, LLC.

He’s committed to the brand, and stands behind the wonderful product. “Smokin-Joe’s is made with the best herbs and spices and peppers and it’s been blended to enhance the flavor of food--not to overpower it,” Reed says. “Some hot sauces are so [hot], that you actually lose the flavor of the food.” His commitment is total, and Reed’s partnership with Jewel-Osco has helped the ‘Smokin Joe’ name to continue to grow.

After receiving his MBA from the University of Chicago, Reed learned early the value of experience and business savvy. “My background started [in] corporate America, [working] in marketing and sales,” explains Reed. “I always believed that if you had a desire to start your own company, it was good to start working for someone else who was an expert in that field. It also gives you credibility in your background--you’ve worked in the industry and have some companies that can validate your skills and abilities.” –todd williams

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