Beth Black

Founding Partner

FOODE + Mercantile and 718 Venue

Aside from a stint in Atlanta as an award-winning Producer of Television Network News, Beth Black has been a Virginia resident since 1984. As such, she is well-versed in the culture, trends, socio-economic and political structure of the state as well as the mid-Atlantic region. With over 20 years combined experience in both journalism and the food industry, Black has a proven track record in research, management, operations, and marketing. 

She owns several properties, has owned and operated three restaurants, and employed nearly 70 residents of Virginia. In addition to her daily role as President and Chief Operating Officer of her restaurants FOODE + Mercantile and event facility 718 Venue in historic downtown Fredericksburg, Black is a sitting member of the Fredericksburg Economic Development Authority. She focuses her career on the growth and development of underserved communities and businesses in Virginia.