Albertsons Cos. has opened submissions for its fourth annual Innovation Launchpad Competition, inviting emerging and innovative food, beverage and pet brands to apply for the chance to bring new products to market and connect with the retailer’s merchandising teams.
The annual program — which debuted in 2022 — is designed to spotlight early-stage brands and help them scale by offering exposure to Albertsons’ broad network of banners and shoppers. Applications are being accepted through Jan. 18. Selected applicants will be invited to present their products live at Natural Products Expo West on March 3 in Anaheim, California.
This year’s competition seeks products that align with current consumer trends and emerging opportunities, including functional beverages, hydration, low sugar/low carb options, protein solutions, fiber-enhanced foods, global flavors, healthy snacking and premium pet items. Companies with strong direct-to-consumer strategies and influencer engagement are encouraged to apply.
Sixty applicants will be selected to present their brands to a panel of judges. From that group, finalists will compete for prize packages valued at more than $400,000 in combined cash awards and industry services. Winning brands may also be considered for distribution across Albertsons Companies’ extensive store network — including banners such as Albertsons, Safeway, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s, ACME, Pavilions, United Supermarkets, Andronico’s, Kings Food Markets, Balducci’s Market, Market Street and Haggen.
Last year’s Innovation Launchpad drew more than 600 applicants. The three grand-prize winners — Daily Crunch, Supergut and Water Boy — received cash and services awards, and Daily Crunch, a sprouted nut snack, is available in about 1,680 Albertsons Cos. stores nationwide.
Albertsons said the Launchpad Competition continues to be a “powerful platform for innovative brands to connect with our merchandising teams for an opportunity to reach millions of customers,” reflecting the company’s broader strategy to cultivate new products and enhance the shopping experience.
[RELATED: Albertsons Media Collective Introduces Inaugural Alby Awards]