Pioneering organic seaweed snack brand, Gimme Seaweed, has proudly announced that co-founders Annie Chun and Stephen Broad have been named recipients of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award by the Specialty Food Association (SFA). This prestigious honor recognizes their decades of leadership, dedication, and lasting influence on the specialty food landscape.
Annie Chun and Stephen Broad have spent over 30 years building impactful food brands rooted in purpose, flavor, and innovation. Partners in both business and life, they have reshaped the way Americans experience Asian cuisine—first with Annie Chun’s, and now with Gimme Seaweed, a top-selling organic seaweed snack brand in the U.S. They are at the forefront of the “seaweed revolution” and have a shared vision to elevate this sustainable superfood that not only nourishes families but also supports a healthier planet for the future.
Annie and Stephen have been proud members of the Specialty Food Association for over 25 years. Stephen served on the SFA Supplier Marketing Council in the early 2000s, and both have remained passionate about connecting with industry peers and giving back to the community that helped shape their journey.
The Lifetime Achievement Award is one of the highest honors presented by the SFA, celebrating individuals whose influence has shaped and advanced the specialty food industry. Annie and Stephen’s vision has redefined what’s possible in clean-label, globally inspired foods while fostering cross-cultural understanding and sustainable sourcing.
“This award is an incredible honor—not just for me, but for everyone who’s been part of our journey,” said Annie Chun. “I’m deeply grateful to the Specialty Food Association for recognizing our work, and to our community of partners, farmers, and customers who have believed in our mission to make Asian flavors accessible, healthy, and joyful.”
“This recognition means so much because it comes from the industry that has shaped our lives and supported our vision from the start,” adds Stephen Broad. “We’ve always believed that food can be a powerful connector—between cultures, people, and generations. I’m proud of what we’ve built and I’m even more excited about what’s ahead as we continue to grow the seaweed category and inspire the next wave of food entrepreneurs.”
From driving demand to influencing international sustainable farming practices, Annie and Stephen continue to serve as powerful advocates for global food innovation and cultural connection. The award will be presented at the sofi™ Awards Gala on June 24, 2025, during the 68th Summer Fancy Food Show in New York City.
