The best discoveries are the ones you never planned to make.
The Story Behind Pond & Peak
While traveling through South America, I wasn’t looking to start a food company. I was simply exploring new places, new cultures, and the traditions that make each one unique.
During a visit to Peru, while traveling through the Sacred Valley on the way to Machu Picchu, I came across the salt terraces of Maras. I tasted the salt for the first time, and it immediately stood apart from anything I had experienced before.
As my travels continued, I eventually moved to Argentina, where I became immersed in a culture built around quality ingredients and gathering over great food.
Months later, on my way north, I returned to Peru and tasted the salt again.
That second experience confirmed what I had been thinking throughout my travels: I hadn’t found anything like it anywhere else—not across South America and not in Europe.
That discovery became the foundation for Pond & Peak.
We started with one simple goal: to share exceptional ingredients with the same sense of discovery that first inspired us.
Our Core Values
Guided by principles that reflect our commitment to quality, flavor, and customer satisfaction, we embrace excellence in every aspect of our business.
Quality
Transparency
Flavor
The People Behind Pond & Peak
Every great ingredient has a story. Ours began with an unexpected discovery in the Peruvian Andes and a belief that remarkable products deserve to be shared.
Pond & Peak was built on the idea that where something comes from matters just as much as how it tastes. We seek out thoughtfully sourced products, build lasting relationships with the people behind them, and bring those discoveries to kitchens across America.
Ed — Founder
Veteran, entrepreneur, and former technology professional, Ed traded the corporate world for a backpack and a journey through South America in search of something more meaningful. What began as a chance discovery of hand-harvested salt in the Peruvian Andes eventually became Pond & Peak—a company dedicated to sourcing exceptional products that improve everyday life. Today, Ed continues to build Pond & Peak around authenticity, craftsmanship, and thoughtful innovation—from premium, naturally sourced ingredients to future products focused on health, sustainability, and clean water.
Roman Cross-Mercer— Founding Growth Lead
Roman Cross-Mercer leads Pond & Peak's relationship-building efforts with chefs, restaurants, distributors, and hospitality partners. His focus is expanding Pond & Peak's presence by building lasting partnerships with businesses that value craftsmanship, premium ingredients, and memorable dining experiences. As one of the company's earliest team members, James plays a key role in shaping the company's growth and long-term vision.
We're building a community of chefs, creators, retailers, and food lovers who believe better ingredients create better meals.
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