United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE: UNFI) successfully wrapped up its inaugural regional selling show, marking a significant milestone in the company’s customer-centric strategy. The event showcased UNFI’s full spectrum of natural, conventional, fresh, and organic products, along with comprehensive store solutions tailored to support customers in the western region. With over 5,500 attendees, including representatives from numerous UNFI customers, the two-day show served as a platform for connecting retailers with a diverse array of suppliers spanning grocery, fresh, natural, organic, and specialty departments. Additionally, UNFI’s Professional Services were spotlighted, highlighting efforts aimed at fostering growth and operational efficiency for retailers.
Steve Dietz, UNFI’s Chief Customer Officer, expressed enthusiasm about the event, stating, “We are excited to showcase our wall-to-wall representation of natural, organic, fresh, and conventional products. We’re helping our suppliers expand their product reach while assisting retailers in accessing the right products for their markets at competitive prices.”
Key highlights of UNFI’s comprehensive show include:
- More than 5,500 attendees, comprising domestic and international retailers and suppliers.
- Over 700 suppliers occupying over 100,000 square feet of space, presenting more than 1,000 brands.
- Introduction of hundreds of new products, with select items featured in UNFI’s New Product Showcase Area and UpNext emerging brands section.
- Participation of over 60 Certified Diverse Suppliers.
- UNFI Professional Services experts offering solutions to enhance retailers’ operations and customer experience.
- The Pitch Slam competition, where innovative new products were presented to a live audience, with Tea Drops and Fishwife emerging as the San Diego winners.
Ryan White, Program Category Manager at New Seasons Market, lauded UNFI’s comprehensive approach, highlighting the company’s role in identifying trends, negotiating with suppliers, and sourcing deals crucial for growth and success.
Moreover, the San Diego show saw UNFI recognize outstanding customers and suppliers with Circle of Excellence and Customer- and Supplier-of-the-Year awards, honoring their contributions to innovation and market positioning. Following the Orlando show later this month, the company intends to announce the complete list of customer winners from both events.
