One-Of-A-Kind Coverage for Holmes Made Salsa

Property and Casualty client of ours, Holmes Made Salsa, sat down with Conrade Insurance to discuss what makes their business a staple to many, how coverage can be tricky for home-made goods like theirs, and why they chose us for their insurance needs.

Business & Origin Story

Tell us the story of your business. What inspired you to start it?

I grew up in a family-run produce business and always thought I would run something of my own one day. After leaving the corporate world in 2004, I planned to take the summer off and work on my resume. My uncle still had a booth at the Kansas Grown! Farmers’ Market, and since I didn’t want to compete with his produce, I decided to sell salsa instead. My dad and I had a summer tradition of making salsa, so it felt natural. What started as a way to make a little money for the summer turned into a business.

What makes your business one-of-a-kind?

There is a lot more involved than simply making and selling food. I quickly learned I needed a licensed kitchen, and my recipes and processes had to be authorized through K-State. Food manufacturing comes with regulations, liability concerns, workers comp, commercial vehicles, and the need to protect both the business and the people involved.

Why is it important for you to protect something you’ve worked so hard to build?

This business represents years of work, relationships, and trust. Protecting it means protecting our team, our customers, and the future we are continuing to build.

The Partnership with Conrade

Before working with Conrade, what were you looking for in an insurance partner?

I needed someone who understood my type of business. When I checked with some of the bigger insurance names, no one was able to help me. I needed an insurance partner who understood small food manufacturing, farmers, ranchers, and businesses like mine.

What stood out to you about how Conrade took the time to understand your business?

From the beginning, Casie and the team understood the unique needs of my business. They were knowledgeable, helpful, and made the relationship feel personal. It never felt like I was just another account.

How does working with Conrade give you peace of mind as a business owner?

I know I can count on their expertise to guide me in the right direction. Whether it is my business, home, vehicles, workers comp, or commercial vehicles, I know they are helping me protect what matters.

Can you share a moment or example where Conrade really showed up for your business?

After joining Conrade, I added and removed vehicles and sold a property, and they made the process smooth every step of the way. If I have a question, I can email, call, or even text, and they get right back to me.

Values & Recommendations

How have you seen Conrade’s values in action?

I have seen these values through the relationship and service I receive. Even though Conrade is a bigger company now, they still make me feel like family. My needs are met quickly and professionally, and everyone works with me on a first-name basis.

What would you tell another business owner who’s looking for the right insurance partner?

I would absolutely recommend Conrade. I have already recommended them to several people. When people at the Kansas Grown! Market ask where to get COIs, I send them to Casie Powell because I trust her and know they will be taken care of.