Collin Street Bakery’s GO TEXAN Partnership
Learn About our State Fair of Texas General Store Debut
In mid-2018, Collin Street Bakery proudly announced its admittance into the GO TEXAN program—a program dedicated to showcasing and promoting Texas-based brands and businesses. This year, we are even more excited to announce our expanded partnership—not only with the GO TEXAN program—but also with the 2022 State Fair of Texas. Before we jump boots-first into our big news, let’s catch everyone up to speed...
A Quick Recap
For those who might not have seen our very first blog about our involvement with the GO TEXAN organization, here’s a quick recap: GO TEXAN is a branch of the Texas Department of Agriculture. Headquartered in Austin, Texas the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) was established in 1907 to “promote production agriculture, consumer protection, economic development, and healthy living.”
The GO TEXAN branch of the TDA was started in the early 2000s with a somewhat similar yet hyper-tailored mission of identifying, supporting, and promoting Texas-based businesses. This branch of the TDA works diligently not only to connect these local businesses with local customers but also with customers around the world! The certification is a unique “stamp of approval” for all premier businesses, restaurants, and communities throughout Texas. And let us tell you, acquiring this stamp is not simple.
The Business of Getting Accepted
Bearing the GO TEXAN logo is an elite privilege. So it only makes sense that the process of applying is a responsibility in and of itself. Despite having always been a Texas-based business, Collin Street Bakery only dared apply nearly two decades after the GO TEXAN program’s inception. This is in part because of the rigid criteria companies must meet even to consider applying and partly because of the rigorous application process.
As stated on the GO TEXAN website, “Companies with products grown or processed in Texas are eligible to apply for the GO TEXAN program as a Product Partnership. Companies with non-agricultural Texas-made products are eligible to apply but, with some limited benefits. In general, products produced in Texas but processed out of Texas do not meet GO TEXAN program requirements.”
Perks of Being GO TEXAN Certified
Certified GO TEXAN Partners bear the coveted emblem of the GO TEXAN branded logo, allowing shoppers to quickly identify locally-crafted products at a glance. Additionally, GO TEXAN Partners can be located on TDA’s online database for Texas-based brands. This directory includes all kinds of businesses ranging from wineries to leather shops to, of course, bakeries.
Now, GO TEXAN partners have the option of tiering their involvement within the program. Tier 1 partners enjoy the use of the GO TEXAN brand logo, a listing in the GO TEXAN online database, and spotlight features on GO TEXAN’s social media pages. Tier 2 partners enjoy all the perks of Tier 1, plus access to exclusive GO TEXAN events such as the GO TEXAN General Store inside the State Fair of Texas. Tier 3 partners enjoy all the perks of Tiers 1 and 2, plus a listing in digital publications.
Initially, Collin Street was only a Tier 1 partner. However, having witnessed the positive impact of the GO TEXAN program and being a brand firmly dedicated to bolstering the recognition of other Texas-based businesses, we here at the Bakery decided to upgrade our partnership from Tier 1 to Tier 3!
GO TEXAN and The State Fair of Texas
So, as we mentioned above, ever since the GO TEXAN program was created, they’ve been supporters of the State Fair of Texas. This support only makes sense since both share a common goal of educating anyone and everyone on Texas-based businesses and agriculture.
To aid in this endeavor, the GO TEXAN program operates a huge exhibit each year on the grounds of the state fair where fair attendees are offered exclusive access to GO TEXAN products. Inside this exhibit is what’s called the GO TEXAN General Store—a 3,000-square-foot retail space featuring all your favorite Texas-based brands. Visitors can peruse eye-catching displays, participate in interactive activities, sample delicious products, and even buy food, drinks, and various consumer goods.
This year, Collin Street Bakery will be making our second GO TEXAN General Store debut! An entire section of the General Store will be dedicated to Collin Street Bakery and our award-winning baked goods. So, while walking around Fair Park soaking up some sweet Texas sun, swing by and snag yourself a delicious DeLuxe® Fruitcake!
Remember, Shop Local, & GO TEXAN!
So there you have it. That’s our big, exciting news. We couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of this great state and of the organizations that champion it.
As you live your daily lives, try your best to shop local. When you support local businesses, they pour back into the communities that support them. In essence, the more you put into your state, the more it gives back. If you have any questions about our GO TEXAN Certification or comments about why shopping and eating local is so important, reach out to us! We’d love to start a conversation.
In the Meantime...
In the meantime, plan to check us out at the State Fair of Texas and shop our variety of specials today!
