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NEW YORK (November 26, 2024) - PLMA’s 2024 Private Label Trade Show, the premier event for store brands, closed with a record number of attendees. The sold-out show floor at “The Store Brands Phenomenon 2024 - Empowering the Retail Industry” Private Label Trade Show, held Nov. 17-19 in Chicago, featured 1,821 exhibitors from 60 countries. What’s more, there were 700 first-time exhibitors.

In all, some 14,000 retailers, visitors, exhibitors, and others from the store brand and retailing industries attended.

It was standing room only for the keynote from Dave Rinaldo, President at Aldi. It was the largest crowd ever for any PLMA event.

Rinaldo’s main points were an introduction to Aldi, how the company collaborates with suppliers, the industry’s opportunity to drive shopper trust and the impact the industry can make beyond the bottom line through the support of foundations such as Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation to raise money for childhood cancer research.

During his keynote, Rinaldo thanked PLMA for inviting him and stressed his appreciation for the association and the Private Label Trade Show.

Rinaldo said he was honored to deliver the keynote because of the growth opportunities that exist for Aldi and the private label industry as a whole. He cited how more and more consumers are trying and switching to private label.

After Rinaldo’s keynote, the Show floor opened, featuring a record 54 country and regional pavilions from North and South America, Europe and Asia to help buyers to source new and innovative products for today’s global consumer.

“The annual Private Label Trade Show provided an unparalleled opportunity to discover the best and most innovative private label products from around the world, including food, beverages, wine and spirits, health and beauty care, general merchandise and much more,” said PLMA President Peggy Davies.

Among the trends spotted on the Show floor:

Hot Honey - Hot honey is a spicy condiment that is being used as a dip, as well as drizzled on pizza and more. Products found on the Show floor: hot honey, hot honey corn, hot honey hummus and hot honey dip.

Kitchen Supplies that Make Clean-up Easier - Consumers are seeking out supplies that simplify their cooking routines. Products found on the Show floor: pre-cut parchment paper and aluminum sheets; roasting bags; air fryer liners and slow cooker bags.

Tempting Truffles - The unique aroma and flavor of truffles can be found in an increasing number of packaged goods. Products found on the Show floor: truffle hot sauce, truffle honey; and soy sauce with four truffles.

Premium Pet Treats - Pet treats made with one single ingredient or limited clean ingredients are available to reward our furry friends. Products found on the Show floor: turmeric cheese chews; freeze-dried lamb bites and meatball-style dog treats.

Pumped with Protein - Snack foods with lower net carbs and higher protein appeal to those taking GLP-1 medicine or who are simply looking for a better-for-you snack. Products found on the Show floor: pea-protein based cheddar crackers with 10 grams of protein per serving: brown rice and spirulina spaghetti with 9 grams of protein; high-protein bread.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,500 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label International Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

Editor's Note: Visit the PLMA press room for Show logos and photos.

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CHICAGO (November 19, 2024) - PLMA has announced that January 2025 will be celebrated as the inaugural Store Brands Month.

The month-long, direct-to-consumer program is a partnership between retailers and manufacturers to promote the quality, value and excellence of store brands to shoppers.

PLMA President Peggy Davies shared highlights of the new industry collaboration at “The Store Brands Phenomenon 2024 - Empowering the Retail Industry” Private Label Trade Show here. The sold-out, record-breaking Show began Nov. 17 and runs through today.

The goal of Store Brands Month is to increase consumer trial by focusing attention on the positive attributes and practical factors of store brands - including value, digital convenience, ethical considerations, innovation and budget awareness - across all product categories in both brick-and-mortar and online retail formats.

Retailers have voiced strong support for the initiative, which is planned to be an annual event. Pam Ofri, Wakefern Food Corp.’s Director of Product Development and Operations, Own Brands, said Store Brands Month will help promote and celebrate Wakefern’s Own Brands portfolio, a collection of 5,000+ products under the Bowl & Basket, Wholesome Pantry and Paperbird labels.

“Store Brands Month provides an amazing opportunity to elevate the conversation around store brands and encourage more shoppers to explore these valuable options,” Ofri said.

Along with Wakefern, many large national retailers from coast to coast have signed on to support Store Brands Month.

Promotional strategies will be developed by participating retailers and executed both in-store and through a variety of digital and social media platforms.

“The time is right to bring greater visibility among consumers to our thriving industry,” Davies said. “By coming together with our partners during a month-long campaign, we have an opportunity to further expand the presence and strength of the largest CPG brand in the store: private brands.”

Annual sales of store brands have risen by 41% over the past five years. PLMA is projecting that sales for 2024 will surpass a quarter trillion dollars, setting a record for annual revenue.

Store brands are ubiquitous in the U.S. grocery space. One in every four grocery products sold across the U.S. carries the store's name or brand.

PLMA is providing a Store Brands Month toolkit for retailers. Additionally, PLMA manufacturers, brokers and supplier members can access their own toolkit and more information through the members only portal on PLMA.com.

For more information, email storebrandsmonth@plma.com. 

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,500 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label International Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

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CHICAGO (November 17, 2024) - Walmart tops the list of winners of PLMA’s 2024 Salute to Excellence Awards®. The retail giant received a total of 18 awards for outstanding store brands.

Of these, nine awards went to Walmart’s new bettergoods™ line of chef-inspired products: Ricotta and Lemon Ravioli; Cheesy Spinach Potatoes au Gratin; Salted Caramel Pistachio Ice Cream; Pineapple Upside Down Cake Greek Yogurt; Hibiscus Glaze with Grape Must; Spicy Pineapple Habanero BBQ Sauce; Strawberry Champagne Vinaigrette Salad Dressing; Raspberry, Cardamom & Rose Fruit Spread and Extra Creamy Oatmilk.

Walmart’s Clear American, Equate, Great Value, Marketside and Vibrant Life store brands were also recognized.

They join dozens of other Salute to Excellence winners announced today at PLMA’s “The Store Brands Phenomenon 2024 - Empowering the Retail Industry” Private Label Trade Show here.

Among this year’s award-winning trends: 

Salted Caramel Bliss - Caramel provides a small indulgence that today’s consumers crave. Winning products include Basically™ Salted Caramel Cookie Bites from Gopuff; Favorite Day™ Salted Caramel Cold Foam, Target; and Know & Love Dairy-Free Caramel Sea Salt Gelato, Southeastern Grocers.

Pickle Perfection - The tangy taste of pickles can be found far beyond the condiment aisle. Winners include Private Selection™ Dill Pickle Pretzels Twists, Kroger Co.; and Well Market™ Zesty Dill Pickle Flavor-Infused Sprouted Almonds, CVS Pharmacy.

Citrus Craze - Lemon, lime and other citrus fruits have created refreshing new flavor profiles. Winners include Amazon Kitchen Grilled Pork with Chipotle Lime Sauce, Amazon; and bettergoods™ Ricotta and Lemon Ravioli, Walmart.

Green Clean - Household cleaning products made with biodegradable ingredients and/or without harsh chemicals are in demand. Winners include True Goodness™ Lavender & Pear All-Purpose Cleaner, Meijer; Rosey™ Garbage Disposal Cleaning Packs, Thrive Market.

Rise and Shine! - New breakfast foods cater to shoppers who prioritize convenience, animal welfare and savings. Winners include Giant Eagle™ Shake and Pour Pancake Mix; Whole Foods Market Pasture-Raised Non-GMO Large Brown Eggs; and Always Save® Marshmallow Glitters cereal, Associated Wholesale Grocers

PLMA’s annual Salute to Excellence Awards® program recognizes outstanding food and nonfood products introduced within the last year by supermarkets, drug stores, mass merchandisers, convenience stores, online retailers, wholesalers and more. Submissions were sampled and evaluated by a panel of professional and consumer judges on several criteria, including taste, product concept, packaging, and value for money.

This year, more than 760 products were submitted by 52 North American retailers, which is the highest number of submissions ever received. 

Click here to view the full list of winners.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,500 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label International Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

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NEW YORK (November 4, 2024) - PLMA’s “The Store Brands Phenomenon 2024 - Empowering the Retail Industry” Private Label Trade Show, November 17-19 in Chicago, will be a major, record-breaking event. The sold-out show floor will be filled with 1,800+ exhibitors and more than 3,000 booths.

In total, the Show is expected to draw about 15,000 attendees, including retailers, exhibitors and visitors.

Along with the expansive exhibit floor at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, the Show offers a high-impact speaker lineup.

Notably, Dave Rinaldo, President at ALDI, will deliver the keynote address on Monday, Nov. 18. 

“PLMA’s 2024 Trade Show provides an exceptional opportunity to learn from industry leaders,” said PLMA President Peggy Davies. “This event promises to inspire and inform participants about the evolving landscape of store brands.”

Rinaldo headlines the dynamic panel of speakers who will share thought-provoking insights on hot topics and emerging trends:

Sunday, Nov. 17, 2 p.m.
Opening Seminars

• “Unlocking the $100 Billion Opportunity: The Future of Private Labels” - Randy Burt, Partner & Managing Director; and Matt Hamory, Partner & Managing Director, Alix Partners
• "Generative AI: A Force to Increase Productivity” - Conor Grennan, Chief AI Architect, NYU Stern School of Business
• “Top Trends for 2025” - Tom Vierhile, VP, Strategic Insights, North America, Innova Market Insights
• “The Best Story Wins” - Tim Pollard, CEO, Oratium

Monday, Nov. 18, 8 a.m.
Keynote Breakfast

• “Hungry for Value: How Retailers and Manufacturers Can Fuel the Private Label Boom” - Dave Rinaldo, President at ALDI

Tuesday, Nov. 19, 8 a.m.
Retail Trends Breakfast

• “Why She Buys: Grow Sales and Market Share with the World’s Most Powerful Consumers” - Bridget Brennan, Founder & CEO, Female Factor

Click here for more details about the presentations.

The Show will feature many special on-site displays, including: PLMA’s Idea Supermarket®, featuring the latest product and packaging trends from around the globe.

A new addition this year is a display of wines that won a PLMA 2024 Salute to Excellence Award® for quality and value. The wine awards were announced this past spring at PLMA’s World of Private Label International Trade Show.

Also located inside the Idea Supermarket is the New Product Expo, a showcase of product and packaging innovations from companies exhibiting at the show.

The New Product Expo features hundreds of new foods, beverages, household goods, personal care products and much more. Both domestic and international exhibitors submitted items for consideration. Products were selected based on the level of innovation, sourcing, sustainability and packaging.

Additionally, in the lobby of the convention center, attendees can view a display of retailer store brand foods and non-foods that won a prestigious 2024 PLMA Salute to Excellence Award® for product innovation.

All registrants have access to Show Navigator, a mobile-friendly tool that provides comprehensive information about the show. Available now, Show Navigator has details about exhibitors, speakers, product announcements, trade show facts, the show floor map, show schedule and much more.

Click here for more information about PLMA’s 2024 Annual Private Label Trade Show.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,500 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label International Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

'The Store Brands Phenomenon 2024'' Private Label Trade Show will be held Nov. 17-19 in Chicago

NEW YORK (October 8, 2024) - In response to soaring demand for global foods and flavors, PLMA has announced that more than 800 international suppliers and a record 50+ country pavilions will be featured at “The Store Brands Phenomenon 2024 - Empowering the Retail Industry” Private Label Trade Show, November 17-19 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago.

Authentic international foods and nonfoods from more than 60 countries will be showcased in the North, South and Sky Halls at the convention center. The globally diverse product assortment includes gourmet and specialty food, ethnic products, authentic flavors, personal care items, household products and unique ingredients from their origin country.
The exhibit floor will include a record 50+ country and regional pavilions from North and South America, Europe and Asia to help buyers to source new and innovative products for today’s global consumer. These include five new pavilions this year:

• Morocco: Couscous, cotton candy, rice and more will be on display.
• Poland: Functional beverages, smoothies and vodka.
• Vietnam: Spices, seasonings, fruit juice and coconut milk.
• Portugal: Rice-based ready meals.
• Costa Rica: Frozen and dried pineapple and healthy snacks.

In addition, there will be expanded pavilions from Australia, Canada, Chile, France, Greece, Guatemala, Italy, Peru, Spain, Ukraine, and many other countries and regions.

Among the trends attendees will see this year at booths from international suppliers:

• Baby diapers/adult incontinence.
• Personal beauty products, including creams, toners, serums.
• Convenience foods and snacks with healthy attributes.
• Wine and spirits from Australia, France, Italy, South Africa, Argentina, Chile and more.
• Tequila from Mexico.
• Japanese gin.
• Nonalcoholic spirits.

Along with food and beverages, there’s a 25% increase in nonfood international booths this year, making it one of the fastest-growing segments of the Show. Nonfood categories include Beauty, Household Cleansers & Detergents, Paper & Plastics, Self-Care & Wellness and Pet Products.

The impressive growth of suppliers from outside the U.S. comes at a time when consumers across generations continue to explore international food and drinks.

“People have been increasingly enjoying international food for several reasons, including cultural exploration, globalization awareness, social media influence, health consciousness and more,” said Enriketa Beluli, Manager of Global Pavilions at PLMA.

Younger consumers are especially interested in food experimentation, Beluli noted.

“Gen Z and Gen Y travel a lot more, which gives them access to global cuisines. They value authentic international products,” Beluli added.

Click here to watch our news report on the pavilions and international suppliers.

International suppliers will join nearly 1,800 exhibitors and more than 3,000 booths at the Show, which has consistently received a prestigious Gold 100 ranking as a top U.S. trade show.

Along with international products, exhibitors will showcase the latest innovations in American-made/U.S.-manufactured foods, beverages, flavors, ingredients, refrigerated and frozen foods, sustainable packaging, pet care and foods, self-care, personal beauty, baby care, household goods, wine and spirits, general merchandise, and much more.

Click here for details and registration information.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,000 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

NEW YORK (September 17, 2024) - Dave Rinaldo, president at ALDI, the expansion-minded efficient grocer that is an exemplar of store brand marketing, will deliver the keynote at PLMA's 2024 Private Label Trade Show. 

Rinaldo will speak at the Monday Keynote Breakfast on November 18 at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago, which is adjacent to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, site of the annual show organized by the Private Label Manufacturers Association.

In his presentation, “Hungry for Value: How Retailers and Manufacturers Can Fuel the Private Label Boom,” he will discuss how demand for private label is at an all-time high, and the industry is poised for continued growth. Rinaldo will share insights about the retailer mindset and how the private label industry can come together to make the most of this historic moment.

The breakfast audience will include retailers, manufacturers and other visitors who are attending PLMA's 2024 Private Label Trade Show, which is themed "Empowering the Retail Industry" and was sold out in mid-August. On display will be tens of thousands of store brand products at some 3,000 exhibit booths of nearly 1,800 suppliers representing more than 60 countries. The Show floor will feature 40 national pavilions and special sections for wine and spirits, beauty and cosmetics, and home, health and self-care.

Rinaldo has served as president at ALDI since 2020, after more than 20 years with the company. He oversees the retailer’s product, marketing and sustainability strategies. He also travels the country to lead operations of regional warehouses and stores.  

He began his career at ALDI in 2000 as a district manager trainee. He rose through the ranks to serve in various other roles within the company, including president of ALDI Australia for three years. He was part of the team that launched the first ALDI stores in Florida in 2008. He has worked in various roles supporting the growth of ALDI in the Southeastern U.S. market.

Additionally, he oversees community partnerships with organizations, including Feeding America, the American Red Cross and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF). He serves on the advisory council of ALSF.

ALDI, headquartered in Batavia, IL, presently operates over 2,400 stores in 39 states and territories and has plans to add 800 more over the next five years.

ALDI is one of America’s fastest-growing retailers, serving millions of customers across the country each month. Their disciplined approach to operating with simplicity and efficiency gives their customers great products at the lowest possible prices. In addition to helping protect the planet, ALDI helps customers save time and money through convenient shopping options via in-store, curbside pickup or delivery at shop.aldi.us. For more information about ALDI, visit aldi.us.

About ALDI
ALDI is one of America’s fastest-growing retailers, serving millions of customers across the country each month. Our disciplined approach to operating with simplicity and efficiency gives our customers great products at the lowest possible prices. For seven years running, ALDI has been recognized by the dunnhumby Retailer Preference Index as #1 in Everyday Low Prices.* ALDI strives to have a positive impact on its customers, employees and communities by being socially and environmentally responsible, earning ALDI recognition as a leading grocer in sustainability**. In addition to helping protect the planet, ALDI helps customers save time and money through convenient shopping options via in-store, curbside pickup or delivery at shop.aldi.us. For more information about ALDI, visit aldi.us.
*According to the dunnhumby® ©2024 Retailer Preference Index.
**According to Progressive Grocer’s 2023 Top 10 Most Sustainable Grocers list.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,000 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

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NEW YORK (August 20, 2024) - Whether it’s Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials or Gen Z, each generational cohort is unique in terms of its shopping and purchasing patterns.

This diversity will be reflected at PLMA’s “The Store Brands Phenomenon 2024 – Empowering the Retail Industry” Private Label Trade Show, November 17-19 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago.

Exhibitors will showcase the latest products and services that resonate with consumers in all life stages. Sustainable packaging and on-the-go snacks and beverages for Gen Z; functional beverages and other wellness products for Baby Boomers; and ethnic fare for millennials are among the many examples of multigenerational products that will be on display.

“The show floor will be filled with nearly 1,800 exhibitors and more than 3,000 booths, making it a premier event for retailers in all channels to discover products that appeal to the unique needs and preferences of multiple generational groups,” said PLMA Corporate Vice President Anthony Aloia.

The PLMA Trade Show provides one-stop-sourcing for innovative, high-quality products with wide-ranging, multi-generational appeal, including food, beverages, wine and spirits, flavors, ingredients, authentic international foods and nonfoods, refrigerated and frozen foods, sustainable packaging, beauty and cosmetic products, pet products, self-care, baby care, household goods, kitchenware, general merchandise, and much more.

Additionally, as a companion to the Show, PLMA will host two new sessions in its popular Lunch and Learn PLMA Online Speaker Series. Entitled “The Multigenerational Appeal of Store Brands,” the programs will address the wants and needs of Boomers and Gen Z.

• Sept. 12, Sara Williamson, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Marketing at SUNY Old Westbury, will share details about the unique shopping traits of Baby Boomers and reveal where private label can provide value.
• September 19, Laurie Demeritt, owner and CEO, The Hartman Group, will discuss Gen Z and provide insight on how to target the group through product innovation and branding.

Sessions conveniently begin at 12:30 p.m. EST and run about an hour. They are free to PLMA members, as well as retailers.

Click here for more information about PLMA’s 2024 Annual Private Label Trade Show.

Click here for more information about the Lunch and Learn PLMA Speaker Series.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,500 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label International Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

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NEW YORK (August 6, 2024) - Today’s pet parents treat their furry friends like members of the family. They prioritize Fido and Fluffy’s health and well-being, and seek out premium food, high-quality treats and innovative supplies.

They get all that and more from private brands. Among many other examples:

• Kroger Co. recently expanded its premium Abound pet food line with the debut of several new dog and cat food flavors. All items in the line have meat, poultry or fish as the first ingredient.
• Dollar General’s Nature’s Menu premium dog and cat food line is free from soy, wheat, fillers, animal by-products, artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.
• PetSmart’s Arcadia Trail collection features new items for outdoor enjoyment, including LED light-up collars and glow-in-the dark toys.

Initiatives like these have contributed to the department’s impressive performance. Dollar sales of store brand pet care products (food, treats, accessories) in all outlets grew 5.8% to $5.3 billion for the 52 weeks ending June 16 vs. the same period the prior year, according to Circana.

Pet Care is playing a larger role at PLMA’s annual Private Label Trade Show. Suppliers of pet products will join nearly 1,800 exhibitors and more than 3,000 booths at PLMA’s “The Store Brands Phenomenon 2024 - Empowering the Retail Industry” Private Label Trade Show, Nov. 17-19 in Chicago.

“Exhibitors at the PLMA Trade Show will celebrate the special bond pet owners have with their animal companions,” said PLMA Corporate Vice President Anthony Aloia. “Retail buyers will get to see all the products pet owners need, including dry and wet pet food, treats and chews, biscuits and snacks, grooming and oral care products, wipes and diapers and vitamins and supplements and much more.”

Along with pet products, the Show provides visitors and retailers with one-stop-shopping for the latest innovations in food, beverages, wine and spirits, flavors, ingredients, authentic international foods and nonfoods, refrigerated and frozen foods, sustainable packaging, beauty and cosmetic products, self-care, baby care, household goods, kitchenware, general merchandise, and much more.

The event also features opening seminars, a keynote breakfast, retail trends breakfast, engaging networking events and informational displays.

Among the special on-site exhibits at the Show:

• PLMA’s Idea Supermarket®, featuring the latest product and packaging trends from around the globe.
• New Product Expo, a showcase of select product and packaging innovations from companies exhibiting at the show.
• A display of retailer food and non-food products that won a prestigious 2024 PLMA Salute to Excellence Award® for product innovation.

For more than 40 years, the PLMA Trade Show has attracted major supermarkets, supercenters, drug chains, wholesale clubs, dollar and specialty stores, mass merchandisers, importers and exporters, e-commerce retailers and many others to find new products, make new contacts and discover new ideas.

CLICK HERE for more information.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,500 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label International Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

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NEW YORK (July 16, 2024) - Exclusive varietals, direct-to-consumer initiatives and premium lines are among the high standards of excellence in the private label wine business.

In response, a dedicated wine and spirits pavilion will be a main attraction at PLMA’s “The Store Brands Phenomenon 2024 - Empowering the Retail Industry” Private Label Trade Show, November 17-19 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago. Wine, spirits, ready-to-drink cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages will be featured in the pavilion.

“Exhibitors will present new and innovative adult beverages that deliver great taste, exceptional quality and impressive value,” said PLMA Corporate Vice President Anthony Aloia. 

The Show’s focus on wine comes at a time when the value of the U.S. wine market surpassed $107 billion last year, from $73 billion in 2018, according to the 2024 BMO Wine Market Report.

Retailers in all channels have elevated their wine business with new product offerings, exclusive partnerships, convenient packaging, e-commerce platforms and many other initiatives.

Among the examples:

- Albertsons Cos.’ Vinaforé and O Organics private brands are included in the company’s Vine & Cellar direct-to-consumer online wine store.
- Aldi’s new California Heritage Collection of reds and whites.
- Cabernet, chardonnay and other wine varietals are part of the new Finest Reserve by Our Family premium line from SpartanNash.
- Gelson's "Winemaker Series" private label wine features a collaboration with renowned "First Lady of Wine," Heidi Barrett. 
- Circle K’s Sunshine Bliss line is offered in both bottles and single-serve tetra containers.

The innovation and quality of today’s wines are evident in PLMA’s 2024 International Salute to Excellence Awards®. Among the winners: Albertsons Cos., Vinaforé Collection Châteauneuf-du-Pape A.O.C. 2021; Aldi, Specially Selected Rioja D.O.C. Reserva 2018; and New Seasons Market, Partners In Crime, Malbec, Argentina 2022.

Click here to see all the winners.

Along with wine, retailers are investing in private label spirits. Take Costco's Kirkland brand vodka; and Aldi’s Vista Bay Hard Seltzer, just to name a few.

Wine and Spirits suppliers will be among nearly 1,800 exhibitors and more than 3,000 booths at the PLMA Show. Exhibitors will also showcase shelf-stable foods and beverages, refrigerated and frozen foods, flavors and ingredients, authentic international foods and nonfoods, self-care, baby care, beauty and cosmetic products, household goods, kitchenware, general merchandise, sustainable packaging, pet care, and much more.

Plus, the Show features opening seminars, a keynote breakfast, retail trends breakfast, engaging networking events and informational displays. Among the many special on-site exhibits:

- PLMA’s Idea Supermarket®, featuring the latest product and packaging trends from around the globe.
- New Product Expo, a showcase of select product and packaging innovations from companies exhibiting at the show.
- PLMA 2024 Salute to Excellence Awards®, a display of retailer food and non-food product innovations chosen best private label product in their categories by industry and consumer judges as part of PLMA's prestigious Salute to Excellence Award® competition.

For more than 40 years, the PLMA Show has attracted major supermarkets, supercenters, drug chains, wholesale clubs, dollar and specialty stores, mass merchandisers, importers and exporters, e-commerce retailers and many others to find new products, make new contacts and discover new ideas.

CLICK HERE for more information.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,500 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label International Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

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NEW YORK (July 9, 202) -   Store brands reached all-time highs in both unit and dollar share during the first six months of 2024, compared to the same period a year ago, according to new Circana sales data provided exclusively to PLMA.

Unit market share was 22.9% and dollar market share was 20.4%, as of June 16.

“These record highs in market shares illustrate the ‘Store Brands Phenomenon’ that’s sweeping the retail industry across all channels, departments and categories,” said PLMA President Peggy Davies.

The improved market shares came on the strength of store brands' superior performance at checkout versus national brands. Store brand dollar sales were up 2.3%, vs. a gain of 1.1% for national brands. In unit sales, the difference was even greater: store brands increased by 2.5%, while national brands dropped 0.8%. 

Total store brand sales for the six months were $121 billion; national brand sales were $472 billion.

Results in the 10 individual product departments that Circana tracks for PLMA paint a clear picture of where store brand sales are doing well. It's nearly everywhere, as nine of the departments posted dollar sales gains for the 52 weeks ending June 16.

The Beauty department improved the most, up 10%; followed by Liquor (+8.8%), General Food (+6.9%), Home Care (+6.8%), Pet Care (+5.8%), Beverages (+4.3%), Frozen (+2.9%), General Merchandise (+2.2%), and Home (+1.7%). Only Refrigerated slipped, but it was a nominal minus 0.7%.

PLMA estimates that if sales continue at the current rate for the balance of the year, total store brand revenue for 2024 will exceed a quarter trillion dollars, setting a new record for annual sales.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,500 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label International Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: press@plma.com

NEW YORK (June 4, 2024) -  From Family Dollar’s hyaluronic acid serum to Sephora’s volumizing mascara, product innovation has led to the rapid rise of the store brand beauty and personal care market.

Total dollar sales of the private label beauty department rose 10.4% to $3.9 billion last year vs. the prior year; and unit sales were up 2% to 956 million, according to Circana data for PLMA. During the first quarter of 2024, Beauty was the leading sector among all food and nonfood departments, increasing by 7.9% in store brand dollar sales and 2.1% in unit sales.
Some of the biggest gainers include eye cosmetics (up 70% to $41 million in sales); lip cosmetics (up 50%, $26 million); facial cosmetics (up 37%, $49 million) and women's fragrances (up 29%, $50 million).

These and many other categories and segments - including hair care, men’s grooming, skincare, lip balm, serums, eye masks, bath and shower, nail care and beauty tools - will be showcased in a dedicated beauty and cosmetics pavilion at PLMA’s “The Store Brands Phenomenon 2024 - Empowering the Retail Industry” Private Label Trade Show, November 17-19 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago.

“As sales figures prove, retailers are committed to beauty, cosmetics and personal care store brands by offering high-quality, innovative products at accessible price points,” said PLMA Corporate Vice President Anthony Aloia. “The beauty and cosmetics pavilion at the PLMA Show will empower retailers to build on these efforts by featuring all the must-have products that help consumers look and feel their best.” 

The impressive sales gains come at a time when retailers in all channels have introduced on-trend cosmetics, beauty tools, premium skincare products and more.

Among many other examples:

• Family Dollar: Levitate Beauty, a collection of cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and more. All products are priced at $7 and under. The assortment includes specialty products like an exfoliating cleanser made with green tea and caviar lime extract. Plus, there’s an eye cream made with avocado oil, coffee extract and retinol; and hyaluronic acid serum infused with Provitamin B5.
• Sephora: The Sephora Collection includes makeup, tools, skin care products and more. New items include a lacquer lipstick, volumizing mascara, eyeshadow primer, and clear false eyelash glue.
• Target: Goodfellow & Co men’s grooming products, including shampoo, conditioner, beard oil and facial scrub.
• Albertsons Cos.: Signature Care cherry almond scented lotion, oil-free eye makeup remover, foaming facial cleanser and dry touch sunscreen lotion.
• CVS Pharmacy: one+other self-care staples, including barber shears, nail shapers, nail clippers, cotton balls and slant tweezers.

Beauty products will join foods, beverages and other nonfoods on exhibit at the Private Label Trade Show. More than 1,700 exhibitors and 2,800 booths will also showcase wine and spirits, shelf-stable foods and beverages, refrigerated and frozen foods, flavors and ingredients, authentic international foods and nonfoods, self-care, baby care, household goods, kitchenware, general merchandise, sustainable packaging, pet care, and much more.

Along with the exhibit hall, the show includes opening seminars, a keynote breakfast, retail trends breakfast, engaging networking events and informational displays.

Among the many special on-site exhibits:

• PLMA’s Idea Supermarket®, featuring the latest product and packaging trends from around the globe.
• New Product Expo, a showcase of product and packaging innovations from select companies exhibiting at the show.
• PLMA’s 2024 Salute to Excellence award winners, a display of retailer food and non-food products that won a prestigious PLMA Salute to Excellence award for store brand innovation.

For more than 40 years, the PLMA Show has attracted major supermarkets, supercenters, drug chains, wholesale clubs, dollar and specialty stores, mass merchandisers, importers and exporters, e-commerce retailers and many others to find new products, make new contacts and discover new ideas.

Click here for registration information.

Click here to watch PLMA's news report on the beauty market.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,500 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label International Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: press@plma.com
 

NEW YORK (May 1, 2024) - More than 13,000 exhibitors, retailers and other industry professionals are expected to attend PLMA’s “The Store Brands Phenomenon 2024” Private Label Trade Show, November 17-19 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago.

This includes more than 1,700 exhibitors, 2,800 booths and thousands of retailers, wholesalers, distributors, and other visitors. The event is the largest of its kind and consistently receives a prestigious Gold 100 ranking as a top U.S. trade show.

The show’s tagline - “Empowering the Retail Industry” - perfectly describes how store brands are an essential part of the retail business model and a key element for success.

“Store brands and the PLMA Show empower retailers to thrive,” stressed Anthony Aloia, PLMA’s corporate vice president. He noted how this extends beyond traditional chains to specialty retail, convenience stores, online retailers, food service providers and many other formats.

Indeed, the event provides visitors and retailers of all types with one-stop-shopping on the bustling Show floor, which will feature the latest innovations in shelf-stable foods and beverages, refrigerated and frozen foods, flavors and ingredients, authentic international foods and nonfoods, self-care, baby care, household goods, kitchenware, general merchandise, sustainable packaging, pet care, and much more.

Two burgeoning private label product sectors - Beauty & Cosmetics and Wine & Spirits - will be a main attraction on the show floor. Last year, Beauty dollar sales jumped 11% to $3.8 billion, representing the largest dollar sales growth of all the departments that Circana tracks for PLMA. Dollar sales for private label wine grew 1.4% to $38.8 million for the 52 weeks ending April 21, 2024 vs the same period the prior year; and liquor sales jumped 28% to $9.5 million.

“We know that, statistically, the size of the wine and spirits department is significantly larger, given that several retailers are not represented in these figures,” Aloia said. “There is a growing opportunity here for both retailers and producers.”

Beyond the show floor, the event features, opening seminars, a keynote breakfast, retail trends breakfast, engaging networking events and informational displays.

Among the many special on-site exhibits:

• PLMA’s Idea Supermarket®, featuring the latest product and packaging trends from around the globe.
• New Product Expo, a showcase of select product and packaging innovations from companies exhibiting at the show.
• PLMA’s Salute to Excellence Awards®, a display of retailer food and non-food product innovations that received the highest scores and were chosen best private label product in their category by industry and consumer judges as part of PLMA's prestigious Salute to Excellence Awards® product competition.

Many pre-show services are offered by PLMA, including Show Navigator, a mobile-friendly tool that provides information about the show.

The Show comes at a time when shoppers are filling their carts more than ever with private brands. Sales of store brands in all outlets increased $10.1 billion, or 4.7%, to a record $236.3 billion last year compared to 2022, according to PLMA’s 2024 Private Label Report. Store brands bested national brands, which grew 3.4% in dollar sales.

Compared to 2019, annual store brand dollar sales in 2023 increased by $60.2 billion, a 34% gain. Store brand dollar share rose 1.2 points to a record 18.9%. During the four-year period, store brand unit sales were ahead by 500 million and unit share improved 0.8 points to 20.7%, also a new high.
The store brands “phenomenon” continues this year: Store brands outperformed national brands in both dollar and unit sales for the first four months of 2024, according to Circana. Private label dollar sales were up 2.0%, compared to an increase of 1.1% for national brands. The results in unit sales were even more impressive: store brands rose by 2.5%, while national brands fell 1.0%. For the first four months of 2024, dollar share advanced to 20.5%, and unit share moved up to 23.1% - both are all-time high marks.

For more than 40 years, the PLMA Show has attracted major supermarkets, supercenters, drug chains, wholesale clubs, dollar and specialty stores, mass merchandisers, importers and exporters, e-commerce retailers and many others to find new products, make new contacts and discover new ideas. 
Exhibitor registration is now open. Visitor registration opens this summer.

Click here for more information.
Visit the PLMA Press Room for show logos and photos.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,500 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label International Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

SAN ANTONIO (March 21, 2024) - The Private Label Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place here last night at PLMA’s 2024 Annual Meeting & Leadership Conference.

The Class of 2024 consists of 16 individuals who are honored in four categories:

Lifetime Achievement

• Clay Dockery, Vice President, Private Label and Co-Manufacturing, Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA
• Peter Kroner, Managing Partner, Marketing Concepts Group
• Edward P. Salzano, President, EDNJ Associates
• John W. Solomon, The Kroger Co. (Retired)

Private Brand Champion

• Nils Clement, Founder and CEO, Euro Caps BV
• Pam Ofri, Senior Director of Own Brands, Wakefern Food Corp.
• Jac Ross, Vice President, Sprouts Brand, Sprouts Farmers Market
• Nick Scangas, President and Chief Operating Officer, Cedar’s Mediterranean Foods

Private Brand Innovator

• Pascale Courtemanche, R&D Director, Plats du Chef, C.H. Guenther & Son
• Jackie Li, Senior Vice President, Private Brands and Global Sourcing, Dollar General
• Dr. Rakesh Rathore, Chief Operating Officer, TrueChoicePack
• Brooke Rice, Senior Director of Own Brands, Southeastern Grocers

Next Gen Private Label Leader

• William Crosby, EVP, Crosby Foods Ltd.
• Hope Lenhart, Director of Brand Management for Essentials, Beauty and Hardlines, Target
• Chad Mallory, Senior Product Manager, Amazon Fresh Private Brand
• Mohan Valluri, Vice President of Sales and R&D, Alamance Foods

The Next Gen Private Label Leader category honors those who are under the age of 40 and have grown their businesses through innovative thinking; Private Brand Innovator, awards those who have demonstrated out-of-the-box decision making leading to a new way of doing business; Private Brand Champion, recognizes those with a track record of developing successful initiatives that lead to category growth and who have vision and determination that cut through barriers and obstacles; and Lifetime Achievement, pays tribute to those who, over the span of their careers, have distinguished themselves as a leader of store brand development and innovation.

“We’re thrilled to honor this incredible group of men and women for their excellence in these four important categories,” said PLMA President Peggy Davies. “They truly deserve this special recognition for going above and beyond in their contributions.”

Presented by PLMA and Store Brands, the Private Label Hall of Fame was created in 2006 to recognize high achievers and thought leaders who have made significant contributions in their own organizations, as well as those who have set standards of excellence and accomplishment throughout the industry.

Retailers, manufacturers and suppliers, wholesalers, members of the press, market researchers and consultants were among the potential candidates.

Profiles on all inductees will be featured on StoreBrands.com and posted in the Hall of Fame section of plma.com.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,000 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media:

NEW YORK (February 27, 2024) – Sales of store brands increased $10.1 billion to a record $236.3 billion last year compared to 2022, according to PLMA’s just-released 2024 Private Label Report.

That represents a 4.7% rise in dollar sales in all outlets from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2023, versus the same period the prior year, according to the report. Store brands bested national brands, which grew 3.4% in dollar sales.

Compared to 2019, annual store brand dollar sales in 2023 increased by $60.2 billion, a 34% gain. Store brand dollar share rose 1.2 points to a record 18.9%.  During the four-year period, store brand unit sales were ahead by 500 million and unit share improved 0.8 points to 20.7%, also a new high.

The annual report analyzes store brand and national brand sales in unit and dollar sales in key categories. It is based on sales figures from the PLMA/Circana Unify+ market data portal, available free to PLMA members on plma.com.

The results show that today’s consumers are directing more of their budgets to private label items.

"Overall, the industry is healthier than ever," PLMA President Peggy Davies states in the report. "One of every five food or non-food grocery products sold across the U.S. carries the retailer’s name or own brand and was supplied by a store brand manufacturer."

According to the report, nine out of 10 departments that Circana tracks are showing growth over the year before. The outlier once again is tobacco, which continues to trend downward overall.

Departments with the highest dollar sales growth are Beauty, up 10.5% vs. 2022; General Food, +10%; Beverages, +8.9%; Home Care, +8.7%; Frozen, + 4.4%; and General Merchandise, + 4%. 

Click here for the full report.

About PLMA

The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade organization founded in 1979 to promote the store brands industry. With executive offices in New York and International Council offices in Amsterdam, PLMA represents more than 4,000 member companies worldwide. In addition to the Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago and its World of Private Label Trade Show in Amsterdam, PLMA provides annual conferences, executive education and professional development opportunities. Follow PLMA on plma.com, plmainternational.com, and on social media: