BERKELEY, Calif., March 5, 2009 — "It's all about finding some way to stand out," says Dr. Mark Wolpa, CEO and Founder of Toe-Food Chocolates & Candy, as to why his chocolate-foot-themed business has had a 100% increase in sales from businesses and job-seekers this quarter. "The fourth quarter is our busiest time, but since January we have been very busy with new customers who are trying to stimulate their business or find jobs," says Wolpa.
"We receive orders daily from people who want our life-size chocolate feet to send to a business or prospective employer with a note that says 'Thanks for letting me get my foot in the door,'" says Wolpa. "From personnel agencies, medical equipment companies, freight lines, as well as those unemployed looking for jobs, they have all used our products to try to get someone's attention. We enjoy helping customers develop clever taglines tailored to their needs," Wolpa says, "such as 'A toe-ken of my appreciation for your time.'"
Toe-Food Chocolates & Candy (http://www.ToeFood.com) was started over 20 years ago by Wolpa (a podiatrist) who came up with the idea of sending a chocolate foot to referring doctors as a unique holiday gift. He then offered the products to other podiatrists who he thought would also like the concept. It was such a hit that he decided to start the business as a part-time endeavor, which soon developed into a full-time business.
Dr. Wolpa is Chief of the Podiatry Dept. at Alta Bates Summit Hospital in Berkeley and has authored books and articles, including a children's book, Tommy's Toe-rific Adventures. He has patented a sports innersole, has a medical device that is patent pending, and is one of the first doctors to offer a new laser technology to treat fungal toenails. Wolpa's candy company was featured on the Food Network television show and he also appeared on the To Tell the Truth quiz show.
Each year Wolpa tries to develop a new product and he now has over 25 trademarked items like: Mistle Toes(R), Valentoes(R), and Happy Feet(R). Seven years ago he came up with a kids candy he dubbed Stinky Feet(R) and this year he is planning on introducing Green Footprints(R).
Wolpa is pleased his unique products have found a way to try to help stimulate the depressed business climate. "I realize it does not have the same 'kick' as President Obama's $790 billion stimulus package, but I am proud that our small company is helping to 'kickstart' the economy in our own 'sweet' way," says Wolpa.
Toe-Food Chocolates & Candy also helps non-profits with fundraisers, has donated a portion of sales to the Fund for Podiatric Medical Education, and donates products to local food banks.
Contact:
Mark Wolpa
Email
888-863-3663
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