CHICAGO — Marc Schulman and his daughter Elana Schulman, president and director of special projects, respectively, of Chicago-based Eli’s Cheesecake sat down with Joanie Spencer, editor-in-chief of Commercial Baking, for a live recording of Troubleshooting Innovation during BakingTECH 2023, held in Chicago Feb. 28-March 2. The podcast from BakingTECH will be released in the coming weeks.
The Schulmans spoke candidly about how they balance being an iconic brand with being standard setters — and an innovator — in the industry.
“Something that I’ve always loved about my dad’s approach was how he honors the heritage and tradition but thinks really big about what it means to look beyond cheesecake as well,” Elana said. “I like to be in that sweet spot between where we want to be that thing that brings customers comfort and a sense of nostalgia but also present exciting flavors and new formats.”
Eli’s Cheesecake’s innovative thinking extends beyond its products. One example is in its workforce development. The company opens its doors to refugees seeking employment and works intentionally to create and sustain an inclusive, respectful environment.
“We have a commitment to lifelong learning and education,” Marc said. “We have an ESL program for our associates, creating advancement opportunities. When we hired a number of Afghan associates, we created a prayer center in that facility. We also hire people with disabilities, and we work with a neighboring high school for students with disabilities, helping prepare those students for a career in food.”
While the Schulmans understand the value of protecting their heritage, they also enjoy finding ways to innovate in areas across the company.
“That’s when we have a lot of fun at Eli’s, when we’re presented with big challenges and need to think creatively and do something that makes sense for brand and in our footprint and that’s also great for the customer,” Elana said.
Marc and Elana Schulman will join Spencer as guests of the upcoming season of Troubleshooting Innovation, where the pair will dive into innovation and resilience in a third-generation, family-owned company.
