For micro market operators and their customers, these dumplings check all the right boxes
While CJ Schwan’s is widely recognized for its iconic Red Baron® Pizzas, it is the bibigo™ Chicken and Vegetable Steamed Dumplings that are generating excitement among operators and consumers alike, already making waves in approximately 4,000 micro market locations. Fooddive reports that bibigo’s™ success in unattended retail follows an impressive 1,100% growth in retail distribution over the past four years.
Going Viral
According to David Bromley, Corporate Accounts Manager at CJ Schwan’s, sales of bibigo™ Chicken and Vegetable Steamed Dumplings received a significant boost from a viral TikTok video that resonated with both consumers and major operators. “bibigo™ is a premium, well-recognized brand with proven retail success. Our rapid growth in unattended retail has been driven by partnerships with some of the largest national operators,” said Bromley. “Not surprisingly, we are now seeing strong momentum with independent operators of all sizes as well.”
For Today’s Consumer
Bromley highlighted several factors that make bibigo™ Steamed Dumplings particularly appealing to micro market operators. “It starts with versatility and the ability to fill a gap in micro markets for a product that works equally well as a snack or as part of a hearty meal,” he noted. “Consumers today eat multiple times throughout the day — whether that means substantial snacks, quick meals, or even shareable foods. bibigo™ Steamed Dumplings cater to all those needs.” Bromley even mentioned that he has seen customers enjoy dumplings as part of breakfast, something he personally enjoys.
Perfect Price Point
“This product strongly resonates with Gen Z and Millennial consumers, who now comprise the majority of the workforce and are looking for restaurant-quality food at a reasonable price,” Bromley explained. “A six-dumpling pack falls within the attractive $4 to $6 price range, making it a fulfilling option for this demographic. Paired with a beverage — and perhaps a small snack — customers can enjoy a satisfying dining experience for under $10.” He added that micro market and vending operators typically see strong margins on bibigo™ Chicken and Vegetable Steamed Dumplings, ranging from approximately 38% to 50% at this price point, which is encouraging for operators.
On-the-Go Convenience
bibigo™ Chicken and Vegetable Steamed Dumplings are typically delivered frozen and thawed in the cooler case, providing a 10-day shelf life. Packaged as six dumplings in a convenient tray with dipping sauce, the product is ideal for on-the-go consumption — an important consideration for today’s workplace demographic. Preparation is simple; just steam or microwave and enjoy.
Dumpling Growth
In their Global Flavor Trends for 2026, Innova Market Insights reports that Gen Z and Millennial consumers are drawn to cross-cultural flavor exploration, driven by globalization, travel, and social media. They also love sauces, toppings, and bold flavors, positioning bibigo™ Steamed Dumplings for continued growth. A May 2025 Technavio report cited a 7% year-over-year growth in Korean dumpling sales and noted that 26% of Millennials and 22% of Gen Z regularly consume dumplings.
Just 250 Calories
“People are often surprised to learn that a six-dumpling package contains just 250 calories,” Bromley said. For the workplace demographic, calorie content is a key consideration. A study from Curalate revealed that 55% of Gen Z and 48% of Millennials follow health and nutrition influencers on social media, which impacts their eating habits and heightens their awareness of calorie intake.
Quality First
“Everything we do centers around quality first,” Bromley emphasized. “While price is certainly a concern, we are committed to using premium ingredients, including cabbage, mushrooms, and chicken. We flash-freeze them properly and quickly. The dumplings are authentic, with thin skins that enhance the flavors inside.”
Great Taste
“bibigo™ Chicken and Vegetable Steamed Dumplings are a must-have in every micro market. The price point is ideal, the margins are excellent, and the product is trending on social media, making it popular among the workplace demographic. “Through our distributor partners, we are well-positioned to serve operators nationwide,” he said. “Most importantly, these dumplings taste great. I witness it every day when I put out samples during demos. The demand is undeniable — they just keep coming back for more.”
To learn more about bibigo™ from Schwan's Foodservice:
bibigo
About the Author
Bob Tullio
Bob Tullio is a content specialist, speaker, sales trainer, consultant and contributing editor of Automatic Merchandiser and VendingMarketWatch.com. He advises entrepreneurs on how to build a successful business from the ground up. He specializes in helping suppliers connect with operators in the convenience services industry — coffee service, vending, micro markets and pantry service specifically. He can be reached at 818-261-1758 and [email protected]. Tullio welcomes your feedback.
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