The Shelby Report is supported by advertising, sponsorships and subscriptions. This page explains how we keep our news coverage independent and how we label content that is paid for or supplied by advertisers.

Separation of news and advertising

  • Our editors decide which stories we cover. Buying advertising does not guarantee news coverage, and not advertising does not prevent it.
  • Advertisers do not review, edit or approve news stories before publication.
  • Sales staff do not assign or edit news coverage.

Labeling paid and advertiser content

Some content on our site and in print is written by, supplied by or paid for by advertisers and partners. This content is always labeled so readers can tell it apart from our news reporting:

  • Ask The Experts and Industry Leaders Speak articles feature executives from advertising partners and are labeled ‘Expert Article’ and identify the sponsor with a ‘Brought to you by’ line.
  • Sponsored newsletters, e-blasts and landing pages identify the sponsor, for example “Brought to you by.”
  • Guest columns from association and industry leaders carry the author’s name, title and organization.
  • Any other sponsored placement will be clearly labeled with “Brought to you by.”

Press releases

Much industry news begins with company announcements. We use press releases as a starting point, verify key facts, attribute the information and edit for clarity and relevance to our readers. We do not publish press releases word for word as news.

Conflicts of interest

  • Staff members do not accept payment, gifts of significant value or other benefits in exchange for coverage.
  • Staff members disclose to an editor any personal or financial relationship with a company or person they cover.
  • Travel or event attendance paid for by a host is noted when it is relevant to a story.

Awards and recognition programs

The Shelby Report runs industry recognition programs such as Retailer of the Year, the Exceptional Independents Award, Women of Influence and the Food Industry Hall of Fame, Sustainability in Food Industry Award. The honorees are reviewed and selected the editorial staff. Sponsorships do not affect or influence the selection.

Feedback

Questions about our standards can be sent to [email protected] or through our Contact Us page.