United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) kicked off the 2024 selling season with its Winter and Holiday Selling Show, showcasing a variety of new products and solutions for food retailers. During the two-day show held June 4-6 in Uncasville, Connecticut, about 1,400 customers 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.”
UNFI Media Network takes center stage
A major focus of the show 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, 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.”
The next UNFI Winter and Holiday Show will be held Aug. 8-9 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
