Monday, October 6th | 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
As GLP-1 medications reshape consumer health and wellness behaviors, the ripple effects are being felt across the entire CPG landscape. Join NIQ’s Sherry Frey, as she explores the latest insights into the evolving profile of GLP-1 shoppers. This session will unpack how these consumers are redefining food, beverage, and lifestyle choices, and what that means for brands looking to stay ahead. From shifting purchase patterns to emerging product preferences, Sherry will highlight key data-driven trends and uncover actionable opportunities for innovation, marketing, and product development. Whether you're in strategy, innovation, or brand management, this session will equip you with the knowledge to navigate and capitalize on this transformative moment in consumer behavior.
Monday, October 6th | 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM
This is a great networking event giving participants the opportunity to discuss relevant industry topics in a round table format with fellow industry professionals sitting at the table.
Over the 45 minutes, participants can choose a table with an assigned topic to discuss. After 20 minutes we will pause and ask everyone to switch to a second table topic.
Partnering for Growth: Collaborative strategies between buyers (universities and retailers) and suppliers in health-conscious categories
- Discus how universities, retailers and suppliers can partner to expand the reach of healthy food products
- Examples of co-branding, joint promotions, and other strategies that are win, win
The Rise of Health Conscious Eating: Staying ahead of consumer trends
- Discuss the emerging trends and consumer preferences of today and ways to adapt to meet future needs.
- Explore up and coming trends
Rise of the GLP-1 Shopper: How to support the needs of this growing group of consumers
- Review the needs of the GLP-1 shopper and how it shaping consumer preferences and behavior
- Best practices and trends at shelf and marketing to these shoppers
Sustainability in Food & Beverage Industry: Challenges & Opportunities
- Explore how consumers are driving sustainability demands and what buyers are looking for.
- Current and coming best practices
Consumer Behavior: What is driving purchasing today
- Discuss key drivers behind purchasing decisions at the store and on campus.
- Discuss how to reach a diverse consumer base, Millennials, Gen Z and older generations
Monday, October 6th | 5:45 PM - 6:45 PM
Join us for a lively cocktail reception where you'll have the chance to sample innovative offerings from our participating suppliers. Mingle, explore new flavors, and connect with industry peers in a relaxed, fun atmosphere. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to sip, savor, and network!
Tuesday, October 7th | 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
This is a great networking event giving participants the opportunity to discuss relevant industry topics in a round table format with fellow industry professionals sitting at the table.
Over the 45 minutes, participants can choose a table with an assigned topic to discuss. After 20 minutes we will pause and ask everyone to switch to a second table topic.
1. Cost Control Strategies in a Volatile Market: Balancing Quality & Profitability
- Discuss rising costs of ingredients, labor, and overheads in current market
- What innovative ways have buyers and sellers done to help manage cost without sacrificing quality?
2. Optimizing the Frozen & Refrigerated Aisles: Best Practices for Merchandising
- Discuss effective strategies for merchandising frozen, refrigerated, and deli products to maximize sales.
- What role packaging, in-store displays, and cross-category promotions play in increasing consumer engagement
3. E-commerce & Delivery: Navigating the future of Frozen, Meat, Dairy, Deli, and Bakery Categories
- How is growth of online grocery shopping affecting frozen and refrigerated sales
- Discuss innovations in shipping and logistics of items for these categories