KeHE Distributors wrapped its 2026 KeHE Holiday Show in Chicago and virtually in the KeHE CONNECT platform, drawing more than 5,000 in-person attendees across two days of buying, education and connection in preparation for the holiday season.
In her President’s Address, Deb Conklin, KeHE president and CEO, outlined the shifting economic landscape that distributors, retailers and suppliers alike are facing, and detailed how KeHE’s continued investment in technology, operational excellence and innovation positions its partners for long-term resilience.
“The Holiday Show is a vital generator of relationships, knowledge, and innovations that drive success during the holiday months,” said Ari Goldsmith, VP of marketing and digital media at KeHE.
“This event represents the most significant manifestation of our brand and a clear reflection of our company culture. By uniting our network of retailers and suppliers under one roof, we are doing more than just mapping out the holiday season; we are cultivating the deep, collaborative relationships that serve as the foundation of our shared success.”
The show floor was organized around five curated pavilions designed to reflect the trends reshaping consumer buying habits. The KeHE On Trend pavilion anchored the event’s education programming, hosting sessions on global trends, fresh category planning, wellness retail strategies, and regenerative organic agriculture.
Sixteen brands received KeHE On Trend Awards, honoring suppliers pushing boundaries in innovation and taste. Four companies earned Booth Awards for standout floor presence: Bim Bam Boo, The Good Patch, Mizkan and Balaveda. Tree of Life USA also showcased its expanding portfolio of premium imported specialty products, offering more than 50 varieties of imported cheeses from the United Kingdom and Spain, with attendees connecting with supplier partners from Coombe Castle and Tgt.
The show also reflected KeHE’s commitment to community impact through KeHE Cares. Attendees assembled 150 fleece blankets for distribution by Naomi’s House and raised nearly $14,000 for three philanthropic Chicago organizations: By the Hand, Breakthrough and Emmaus. At the conclusion of the show, KeHE donated 75 pallets and nearly 81,000 pounds of non-perishable, refrigerated and frozen foods.
The 2027 KeHE Summer Show will be in-person in Phoenix, Arizona, Feb. 9‑10 and virtually in KeHE CONNECT Feb. 3‑19. Those interested in attending can learn more at kehe.com.