UNFI’s second spring and summer show of the year drew more than 3,300 customers from its U.S. East and Central regions to Orlando, Florida, for two days of networking with suppliers from across North America.
“Customers came seeking deals for their shoppers, and suppliers were willing to accommodate them,” said Kelly Sosa, UNFI East region president.
“The breadth of customers, from single-store operators to national chains, coupled with the range of suppliers, created a great show energy and a win-win atmosphere, and proves why in-person shows are so valuable.”
Numbers from UNFI’s Orlando product and solution show:
- More than 6,200 attendees, including 3,360 retail customers.
- Some 740 suppliers, spread across more than 100,000 square feet, showcasing 1,200 brands spanning conventional, fresh, natural and organic products, as well as retail solutions
- Dozens of new offerings, with 25 featured as UpNext emerging brands.
- More than 60 Certified Diverse Suppliers.
- UNFI Professional Services experts, Brands+ representatives and food safety specialists provided solutions for retailers to save money and time and enhance shoppers’ experience.
“UNFI’s shows are tremendously important for us, from networking with our UNFI account team to negotiating directly with vendors,” said Dave Knoop, president of Grove City County Market.
“Having UNFI as a partner to support, educate and guide our team is helping us secure valuable discounts that we can then pass on to our shoppers.”
One of the most anticipated sessions at the show was the company’s Pitch Slam competition, where seven contestants touted their products before an audience.
Prevailing as the winner was The Patch Brand, which makes adhesive patches that contain vitamins and other nutrients, enabling the wearer to absorb them through the skin.
UNFI also completed the recognition of its 2023 customer Circle of Excellence winners. A complete list of the winners can be found here.
What’s next
The company’s holiday and winter shows are scheduled for June 5-6 in Uncasville, Connecticut, and Aug. 6-7 in Minneapolis.
UNFI previously held its first full assortment selling show Feb. 7-8 in San Diego. The two-day event drew more than 5,500 representatives of hundreds of UNFI customers.
About UNFI
UNFI is a grocery wholesaler delivering a variety of fresh, branded and owned brand products to more than 30,000 locations throughout North America, including natural product superstores, independent retailers, conventional supermarket chains, e-commerce providers and food service customers.
UNFI also provides a range of value-added services and segmented marketing expertise, including proprietary technology, data, market insights and shelf management to help customers and suppliers build their businesses and brands.
Read more wholesaler and distributor news from The Shelby Report.
