Margarita Womack, Founder and CEO of Maspanadas has been named Entreprenuer of The Year by the Montgomery County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce! The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Montgomery County promotes the development and economic growth of the Hispanic business community in Montgomery County, Maryland, and surrounding areas. This is not the first time Margarita was recognized for her impact in the community this year, as she was also named to the 2023 Nosh Notables List, and the Bethesda Magazines, "Women Who Inspire" List! Margarita is a multi-dimensional leader, growing a nationally scaled CPG business, and going to great lengths to grow and support her community right here in the DMV area.
Margarita's culinary journey began in her native Colombia, a country known for its vibrant and diverse food culture. Inspired by the rich flavors and traditions of her childhood, Margarita had a vision of bringing the taste of Colombia to her new home in Washington, DC. She joined the Union KItchen Ecosystem as a caterer, and was able to pivot to CPG through her work with our Accelerator team.
We worked with Margarita to widdle down her delicious menu to her rock star product - the empanada! From there Margarita worked with us to develop a mission, vision, and actionable strategy for her brand. By leveraging the Union Kitchen Ecosystem she developed a strong base of local support and has now grown into a national brand that sells in many major retailers including Whole Foods, Costco, Target, and Hello Fresh! From day one Margarita owned her manufacturing, which can be the difference maker in a competitive market, as it allows entreprenuers like Margarita to be adaptable and responsive faster.
She became a manufacturing expert in our shared commercial kitchen, and would use this expertise and experience to open not one, but TWO manufacturing facilities of her own in Maryland! When manufacturing is kept locally, food is fresher, and the local economy is supported. Margarita employs 70+ people in her facilties Her workforce comprises 90% immigrants, over 80% women, and about half are refugees, primarily from Central and South America. She offers wellness classes and instruction in digital and financial literacy to her employees, recognizing that newcomers to the country require more than just a paycheck.
Congratulations to Margarita on being recognized as the Entreprenuer of The Year by the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce! Her impact on the local community and the CPG world continues to grow day in and day out. To try some of Margarita's delicious emapanadas, stop by one of five stores in the DMV, and read more about her amazing accomplishments on our website!