Last updated on August 8th, 2024 at 05:18 pm
United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) held its Winter and Holiday Selling Shows, showcasing a variety of new products and solutions for food retailers.
The first two-day show, held June 4-6 in Uncasville, Connecticut, saw about 1,400 customers who visited more than 850 exhibitors, including more than 50 suppliers from the company’s New Product and Diverse Supplier showcases.
“We’re focused on helping our retail customers differentiate and stand out, so they can focus on building loyalty with their shoppers,” said Steve Dietz, chief customer officer.
“With the scale, custom insights, deep partnerships and innovative products we bring to our shows, we are uniquely positioned to help retailers of all sizes and formats provide high-quality food and unique in-store experiences to compete even more effectively.”
The second UNFI Winter and Holiday Show, held Aug. 8-9 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, saw about 2,100 customers interacting with more than 800 exhibitors, featuring 1,500 brands.
Customers experienced UNFI’s portfolio of differentiated products and value-added services, designed to help them create compelling shopping experiences and grow their businesses.
This show also featured 50 suppliers from the company’s New Product and Diverse Supplier showcases, as well as more than 70 suppliers offering show-exclusive “Monster Buys” on more than 1,700 products.
UNFI Media Network takes center stage
A major focus of these shows was the recently launched UNFI Media Network (UMN). Attendees learned about UMN’s capabilities through seminars featuring UNFI executives and Sean Turner, co-founder of UMN partner Swiftly. The network offers unique features to both retailers and suppliers, aiming to provide a seamless user experience and drive sales.
[RELATED: UNFI Introduces Retail Media Network Powered By Swiftly]
Supplier Recognition and Awards
UNFI presented its inaugural Supplier Circle of Excellence awards at its first show, recognizing outstanding achievements in innovation, marketing and partnership growth. The awards spanned nine categories and business stages, reflecting the diversity of UNFI’s supplier network.
Fifteen suppliers won across the nine categories, and the following three companies were recognized with UNFI’s highest Circle of Excellence award, Supplier of the Year:
- The Kraft Heinz Co. – Established Supplier-of-the-Year
- Certified Piedmontese Beef – Emerging Supplier-of-the-Year
- Chomps – Diverse Supplier-of-the-Year
“Congratulations to all of our Supplier Circle of Excellence winners,” said CEO Sandy Douglas. “We are grateful to partner with you in supporting our retail customers, and we look forward to continuing to be your go-to-market partner focused on helping to build brands and drive your growth.”
One of the most anticipated sessions at every UNFI show is the company’s Pitch Slam competition, where emerging brands pitch their innovative new products to a live audience. Five contestants at the second show competed in the Minneapolis Pitch Slam competition and the winner was Like Air, a family-run business that makes better-for-you snacks that do not compromise taste. For winning the Pitch Slam, Like Air will receive a complimentary campaign on UMN later this year.
UNFI will next host its 2025 Spring and Summer show Jan. 21-23 in San Diego, California.
