The Ohio Grocers Association (OGA) Fall Conference and Foundation Tailgate will be held Friday and Saturday, Sept. 25-26.
The conference includes panel discussions and industry-specific presentations as well as guest speaker Chris “Beanie” Wells, former Ohio State and Arizona Cardinals running back and current sports analyst for 97.1FM The Fan sports radio.
Mark Lauten of FMS Solutions will offer a presentation on the “Financial Pulse of the Industry.”
A panel including Nate Filler, OGA president and CEO; Stacey Ring-Sanders, Kellogg’s; Erik B. Root, Pepsi Beverages Co.; Jesse Thelen, The J.M. Smucker Co.; Steve Paasch, Reiter/Dean Dairy; and Jane Grout, Coca-Cola Refreshments will discuss the future of center store, snacks and beverages/marketing to today’s customers for tomorrow’s sales.
Tony Orlando, owner of Tony O’s Supermarket and Catering, will present “Win with Perishables.”
Beanie Wells will present “Keep Moving Forward—Life Lessons After Football.” Afterward, he will be available for autographs and photos.
At 2 p.m., there will be a drawing for two OSU game tickets for Saturday’s game.
For those who don’t have (or win) tickets, the Ohio Grocers Foundation Tailgate will offer the opportunity for fellowship and watching the Buckeyes take on the Western Michigan Broncos on TV. Food and beverages will be provided.
OGA has secured a room block at the Crowne Plaza Columbus North Worthington, where the conference is taking place, with a special rate of $104 for Friday night. The deadline to register is Sept. 4. For reservations, call Crowne Plaza, 614-885-1885.
