October 2025 Global Retail Brands

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And the Beat Goes On

In today’s unnervingly volatile global economy, the private-label sector is emerging as a beacon of resilience. As global supply chains buckle under the weight of escalating tariffs, political upheaval, and consumer anxiety, store brands are finding themselves, once again, in a sweet spot.

Tariff regimes imposed by the U.S. and reciprocated by trade partners are squeezing margin buffers across the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) landscape. Raw-material costs are rising, logistics are more fraught, and importers can no longer assume stable duty-free flows. The de minimis rule’s suspension for low-value parcels from China, for example, has disrupted ultra-fast fashion’s favored channel into the U.S.—a shockwave felt not only by platforms like Shein and Temu but by the entire apparel ecosystem. Meanwhile, retailers are seeing gross margins shrink by 1–5 percent and reporting sales decline globally.

Yet it is in this pressure cooker that private labels are finding an unexpected advantage. Inflationary pressures and tariff-driven cost shocks are forcing consumers to trade down—more of them are demanding value without compromising quality. Nearly half of U.S. shoppers now aim for private-label alternatives expressly to manage rising costs. Retailers are responding not with generic price cuts but with elevated private-label assortments—cleaner, better-designed, even premium-positioned. (As seen in the Vertex section of this issue)

Investment in private-label production also appears more robust than might be expected. The food and beverage segments, in particular, are viewed as stable bets by investors—even during volatility—thanks to steady consumer demand and relatively predictable input needs compared to more capital-intensive industries.

Political instability and macroeconomic turbulence add texture and risk. Retail giants like Primark warn that consumer sentiment is softening in Europe amid concerns around tax, jobs, and political volatility.

What’s clear is that the private-label industry is now navigating a complex trade-off: benefit from demand shifts and consumer willingness to embrace store brands, while managing input, logistics, and tariff risk. Success will depend on supply-chain agility: localized sourcing, tighter inventory control, flexible multisource networks, and transparency to consumers. For many retailers, private labels are not just a defensive play—but the blueprint for competitive advantage in a fragmented global market.

Phillip Russo Founder / Editor phillip@globalretailmag.com

www.linkedin.com/in/phillip-russo-b5a85a1

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PRIVATE LABEL TRADE SHOW

16-18, 2025 NOVEMBER I CHICAGO

Thousands of Great Store Brands Under One Roof

The strategic importance of store brands is widely recognized by the media, the financial community and, most importantly, by the C-suite of retailers across all formats.

PLMA’s “Store Brands Marketplace” will offer a world-class venue for commerce, concepts and connections. A million square feet of exhibit space devoted to over 35,000 food and nonfood products for every consumer life stage and lifestyle, 3,100 booths, and 2,000 experienced suppliers from 65 countries. Special sections for Wine & Spirits and Self Care & Wellness will also be featured.

Registration is now open for retailers and visitors.

For more information and to register for the Show, visit storebrandsmarketplace.com.

Where Retailers Suppliers Meet &

Phillip Russo EDITOR / PUBLISHER phillip@globalretailmag.com

Jacco van Laar BRAND AMBASSADOR jacco@globalretailmag.com

Melissa Subatch CREATIVE DIRECTOR info@melissasubatchdesign.com

Andrew Quinn DIGITAL DIRECTOR andrew.quinniii@gmail.com

Luisa Colombo EUROPEAN DIRECTOR luisa@globalretailmag.com

Ana Maria Jimenez Aguilar BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ana@globalretailmag.com

Sabine Geissler GREENTASTE.IT Italian Business Development s.geissler@greentaste.it

CONTRIBUTORS

Perry Seelert Emerge perry@emergefromthepack.com

Christopher Durham Velocity Institure cdurham@retailbrandsinstitute.org

Maria Dubuc

Marketing By Design mdubuc@mbdesign.com

Hans Kraak Kraak Media kraakmedia@gmail.com

Elena Sullivan sullivan.elena@gmail.com

Tom Prendergast PLMA tprendergast@plma.com

Koen A. M. De Jong IPLC kdejong@iplc-europe.com

Published, Trademarked and all rights reserved by: Kent Media

Phillip Russo, Principal 225 1st Ave N. / Unit 3501 St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Tel. +1 917 743 6711

Global Retail Brands is published 4 times

Editorial

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LUISA COLOMBO

Luisa is an International Sales specialist with over 30 years of experience in the development organization and sales of products and services in an international environment. She has acquired extensive skills in promotion and advertising for the private label sector. Expert in the development of innovative sectors and products. For Global Retail Brands she shares the working group with Ms. Ana Maria Jimenez.

JILL DEARING

Jill Dearing, founder & CEO of Dearing & Company, leverages her extensive experience in the grocery, food, and private brand industries to drive innovative solutions and strategic transformations. She can be reached via email at jdearing@dearingco.com or visit www.dearingco.com.

KOEN DE JONG

Koen has extensive management experience in the private label manufacturing industry in Germany, France, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. He has been involved in numerous M&A transactions in the Benelux. His private label strategy and business planning involvement includes company analysis and benchmarking, board consulting and the participation in supervisory boards. He speaks fluent English, German, French and Dutch (mother tongue).

MARIA DUBUC

President of MBD, is a creative and workflow expert in the retail landscape, Maria’s 30-year career translates branding experiences into eye-catching design that is unique and distinct for each client. She has created new private brands and redesigned/repositioned existing brands with leading retailers, while also implementing workflow management systems specifically tailored to the clients’ needs. Current clients include The Home Depot, Smart & Final, PetSmart, 7-Eleven, PriceSmart, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Sprouts Farmers Market, WinCo Foods, Natural Grocers and more.

CHRISTOPHER DURHAM

President of the Velocity Institute.

Prior to this he founded the groundbreaking site My Private Brand. He is the co-founder of The Vertex Awards. He began his retail career building brands at Food Lion and Lowe’s Home Improvement. Durham has worked with retailers around the world, including Albertsons, Family Dollar, Petco, Staples, Office Depot, Best Buy, Metro Canada. Durham has published seven definitive books on private brands, including Fifty2: The My Private Brand Project and Vanguard: Vintage Originals.

EUGENE GERDEN

is a freelance writer who writes on a wide range of international topics, from commerce to chemistry and from wine to aviation. He has contributed to many publications, including Decanter, International Aviation News, Chemistry World and The Journal of Commerce. For Decanter, he has covered several stories on wine markets and production in Russia, Georgia and Bulgaria. gerden.eug@gmail.com

REBECCA HAMILTON

Rebecca is the CEO of award-winning Fish Agency and sister agency Whitespace Brands Inc. With over 30 years of experience, she has established herself as one of North America’s leaders in the fields of strategic branding, retail design, and communications for clients in the retail sector. Under Rebecca’s oversight, the Fish Agency brings brands to life at retail and has consistently delivered high ROI-generating retail experiences for its clients. She mentors and leads highly experienced and integrated teams that provide store design, package design for CPG and private brands, digital/social initiatives, “phygital” experiences, and advertising services.

HANS KRAAK

Hans Kraak is educated in biology and journalism and wrote three books about nutrition and health. He worked for the Dutch ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food quality and the Netherlands Nutrition Centre. As editor in chief he publishes in the Dutch Magazine for Nutrition and Dietetics, as a food and wine writer he published in Meininger’s Wine Business International and reports for PLMA Live EU and PLMA USA.

PERRY SEELERT

A retail branding and marketing expert, with a passion for challenging conventional strategy and truths. Perry is the Strategic Partner and Co-founder of Emerge, a strategic marketing consultancy dedicated to helping Retailers, Manufacturers and Services grow exponentially and differentiate with purpose.

ANUGA

Cologne, Germany

4 – 8 OCTOBER

www.anuga.com

PLMA’S PRIVATE LABEL SUMMIT

Copenhagen, Denmark 28 – 29 OCTOBER www.plmainternational.com

DECEMBER

COSMOPROF INDIA

Mumbai, India

4 – 6 DECEMBER www.cosmoprofindia.com

JANUARY

MARCA BOLOGNA

Bologna, Italy

13 – 15 JANUARY www.marcabybolognafiere.com/en

NOVEMBER

COSMOPROF ASIA

Hong Kong

11 – 14 NOVEMBER www.cosmoprof-asia.com

PLMA’S US TRADE SHOW

Chicago, IL

16 – 18 NOVEMBER www.plma.com

FEBRUARY

ISM COLOGNE

Cologne, Germany

1 – 4 FEBRUARY www.ism-cologne.com

BIOFACH

Nuremberg, Germany

10 - 13 FEBRUARY www.biofach.de/en

NOTABLE

PLMA’s Summit in Copenhagen

What Today’s Consumers Expect and How Private Label Can Win

Today’s consumers are more informed, savvy, and demanding than ever, with easy access to information shaping their expectations. To stay competitive and one step ahead, a customercentric strategy is important. But how can we keep up with the constantly evolving behaviour of consumers, their rising expectations, and the need to deliver the customisation and personalisation they demand?

PLMA’s Private Label Summit in Copenhagen, 28-29 October 2025, will explore consumer mindsets and behaviours, uncovering emotional drivers and the strategic value of a consumer-first approach to building loyalty and driving private label growth.

“With stronger relationships, private labels shift from transactional to trusted brands,” said PLMA President Peggy Davies.

The Summit will turn insights into clear, practical tools that drive consumer engagement and strengthen meaningful connections.

Kantar will kick off the event with an analysis of how companies use data to understand, predict, and respond to customer behaviour; and how AI helps businesses stay ahead.

Institut for Kundetyper, a Danish company specializing in emotional customer segmentation, will explore the emotional reasons behind customer choices. Using academic methods with practical tools,

Kundetyper identifies different customer types and their unconscious purchasing habits and gives insights that help you make clear conscious, strategic choices to meet the customer latent wish.

Dunnhumby, a global customer data science company and known for its longstanding relationships with Tesco, will discuss how retailers use private brands to grow customer loyalty. This session explores the role of private brands in driving customer engagement, featuring real case studies and insights on gaining a competitive edge during economic challenges. Learn the strategies behind using private brands to build lasting customer relationships.

Simon-Kucher & Partners, a top consultant in marketing and pricing, will examine the shift from operational excellence (efficiency, cutting costs, optimizing processes), to commercial excellence (maximizing sales, pricing strategies, customer relationships) emphasizing the importance of a customer-centric approach, making decisions based on understanding customer needs. This session will examine the critical role of pricing, analysing different pricing scenarios and its effect on perceived value, service, and quality, and how these factors motivate consumers to choose private label products.

United Nordic, founded in 1964, is one of the world’s oldest and leading buying alliances, jointly owned by retailers Axfood (Sweden), NorgesGruppen (Norway), Dagrofa (Denmark), and wholesaler Martin & Servera (Sweden). United Nordic will demonstrate how a cross-border strategy can benefit retailers, suppliers and consumers, by improving efficiency, increasing purchase volumes, simplifying regulatory processes where possible and streamline sustainable agendas.

Agristo will share their success story as a 100% private label supplier. It will highlight how a companywide, consumer-centric approach, embraced across all departments and business units, is key to identify market opportunities, launch new products and support the sustainable innovation journey. By leveraging their industry expertise and actively collaborating with retailers, suppliers can turn transactional exchanges into valuable, lasting, and reliable partnerships.

The summit closes with a panel debate on the key recommendations shared, discussing whether they are realistic to implement.

Potential topics include: Personalization and targeted development: a winning strategy, or a costly illusion? How can we serve a fragmented market without losing focus? How can companies personalize products considering the diverse preferences within target groups? What is the potential of AI in analysing customer data and creating personalized offers?

On the first day of the summit, Euromonitor will set the tone by diving into the Scandinavian retail landscape and analysing clear trends in the region, followed by on-site visits to leading Danish supermarkets and discounters for a real-life experience and hands-on insights into private label.

PLMA’s Annual Private Label Summit is open to all PLMA members, retailers, manufacturers and trade press.

Through the First Half of 2025, U.S. Store Brands Far Outperformed National Brands on Sales Gains

MONTHLY DOLLAR SALES: SBS AND NBS

Leadership Conference in Bentonville on the horizon in April, the opportunities to connect, learn, and lead have never been more varied and plentiful.”

Store brand growth has been ubiquitous. Looking at departments, store brand dollar sales for the 52 weeks ending June 15 increased in seven of nine sections, led by Refrigerated, up 13%, followed by Beverages, (+4.8%), Frozen (+3.8%), General Food (+2.5%), Pet Care (+2%), Home Care (+1.4%), and Beauty (+1.1%). General Merchandise (-0.4%) and Health (-0.1%) were down.

Through the first six months of 2025 store brands in all U.S. retail outlets held a sizable lead over national brands when it came to the rate of dollar and unit sales gains.

Compared to the same period a year ago, store brand dollar sales were ahead 4.4% and unit sales were up 0.4%; by comparison, national brand dollar sales were plus 1.1% while unit sales fell 0.6%, per Circana’s data provided exclusively to PLMA.

Overall, store brand market shares for the first half of the year increased to 21.2% for dollars and 23.2% for units, both all-time highs.

PLMA projects total store brand sales for 2025 will approach $277 billion; in 2024, the figure was $271 billion, a record.

In unit sales, the top section was General Food at 20 billion, then Refrigerated (15 billion), General Merchandise and Frozen (both at 5 billion) and Health (2 billion).

"Our macro view for store brands remains optimistic," said Peggy Davies, PLMA President.

In unit sales, store brands were ahead in all but one department, with Beverages (+4.2%) showing the way, followed by Home Care (+3.4%), Pet Care (+3.3%), Frozen (+2.1%), Refrigerated (+1.3%), General Food (+1.2%), Beauty (+0.4%), and Health (+0.3%). Only General Merchandise (-2.5%) was off.

The leader in departmental dollar sales was Refrigerated, at $61 billion; next were General Food ($52 billion), General Merchandise ($26 billion), Frozen ($22 billion), Health ($18 billion), Beverages ($15 billion), Pet Care ($5 billion), and Beauty ($4 billion).

“Now's the time to lean in," she added. "PLMA strongly encourages participation in the 2025 Private Label Trade Show as well as our online and in-person offerings like PLMA Live! Presents Lunch and Learn, Meet the Retailers and Meet the Distributors, the Executive Education curriculum at the Show, and the unique Mastering Enterprise Sales Program. With Store Brands Month coming again next January 2026. Soucre: Cricana Unify+TM/PLMA

PLMA’s 2025 Private Label Trade Show:

2,000 Exhibitors from 65 Countries

PLMA’s 2025 “Private Label Trade Show - Nov. 16-18 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Chicago - is the ultimate “Store Brands Marketplace.” The Show is a one-ofa-kind hub of new products, ideas, innovation and connections.

The vibrant Show floor will feature 2,000 exhibitors from 65 countries and 35,000+ innovative store brand products and solutions –all under one roof.

PLMA has significantly expanded its exhibit space to accommodate growing demand by adding more than 100 new exhibit booths to the Show floor this year.

Two special sections on the show floor this year are:

• Self-Care & Wellness in South Hall

• Wine & Spirits in North Hall

NOV

16-18, 2025

CHICAGO

From food and beverages to health, beauty, and household goods, the Show spans a wide range of categories - including wine & spirits, refrigerated and frozen foods, sustainable packaging, functional beverages, beauty, selfcare & wellness, unique snack items, confectionary, baby products, beauty products, pet care, kitchenware, flavors and ingredients from country of origin, convenience foods and foodservice and grab-and-go items, and much more.

The Show attracts a broad range of retail formats, including major supermarkets, supercenters, drug chains, wholesale clubs, dollar stores, specialty stores, mass merchandisers, online retailers, and convenience stores/travel stops.

Attendees can gain high-value insights on vital industry developments during Sunday’s opening seminars, Monday’s keynote breakfast featuring Joel Rampoldt, CEO of Lidl US and a retail trends breakfast that kicks off on the second day of the Show on Tuesday.

What’s more, attendees can experience product and packaging innovations first-hand by visiting the valuable onsite displays:

• 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 2025 Salute to Excellence Award® Winners, an exhibit of retailer food and non-food product innovations chosen as best private label product in their categories by industry and consumer judges.

Attendees have access to the mobile-friendly Show Navigator - an essential tool offering an interactive map, a detailed exhibitor listing, information on PLMA’s New Product Expo, Idea Supermarket and much more.

storebrandsmarketplace.com

Lidl US CEO Joel Rampoldt to Keynote PLMA's 2025 Trade Show

Joel Rampoldt, CEO of Lidl US, will deliver the keynote address at PLMA's 2025 Private Label Trade Show, November 16-18 in Chicago.

A business leader with an exceptional track record in large-scale retail transformations, Rampoldt has widely recognized expertise in building teams and helping them tackle complex problems in customer offer, marketing, supply chain and financial management.

“I’m

honored to get the chance

to speak to our suppliers at this year’s PLMA Trade Show,”

said Rampoldt. “Here at Lidl US, we value our relationships with our suppliers tremendously and we’re excited to grow with our suppliers as we expand in the U.S.”

Rampoldt joined Lidl US as CEO in 2023. Prior to this, he was a Partner and Managing Director at AlixPartners, where he specialized in improving sales and profitability for retail clients through strategies focused on pricing, promotions, and operational efficiency.

"We are extremely pleased to welcome Joel as our keynote speaker. He is an accomplished and influential retail industry executive who leads a chain that is clearly a growing force in the U.S. market, much as it is in Europe," said PLMA President Peggy Davies.

Lidl, parent of Lidl US, operates more than 12,000 stores in 31 countries, employing more than 350,000 employees globally. It is part of the Schwarz Group, the world’s third-largest retailer.

The supermarket chain is well-known for its focus on private label, easy-to-shop layout and curated product selection that emphasizes essentials and popular items which contribute to budget-friendly, efficient shopping.

Lidl US, established in 2015, is headquartered in Arlington, VA., and operates 190+ stores on the East Coast.

Rampoldt will speak at the 8 a.m. keynote breakfast on Monday, November 17, at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare, which is adjacent to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, site of PLMA’s 2025 Private Label Trade Show.

Themed "Store Brands Marketplace," the Show will feature more than 35,000 food and nonfood products, 3,100 booths, and 2,000 exhibitors representing 65 countries. Registration is open.

PLMA’ s International Appeal: 50+ Country Pavilions

Nearly 900 international suppliers and 50+ country pavilions will be featured at PLMA’s 2025 “Store Brands Marketplace” Private Label Trade Show, Nov. 16-18 in Chicago.

In total, exhibitors will represent 63 countries in Europe, Latin America and Asia.

Country Pavilions for 2025 include: two Belgium Pavilions (Flanders and Wallonia), Italy, France, Spain, UK, three pavilions from Greece, Denmark, Poland, Georgia, Morocco, Turkey, Serbia, as well as a new pavilion from the Netherlands.

Mexico and Ecuador will be among other South American pavilions this year, including Brazil, Chile, Peru, Guatemala, Colombia and Costa Rica.

Canadian suppliers will be represented by three official pavilions.

Other pavilions include Australia and New Zealand, as well as several pavilions from China, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam.

(Mexico, Ecuador, Netherlands, Flanders - Belgium are new for 2025)

These exhibitors will showcase a wide array of international products. Among them:

• Organic snacks for dogs and cats from Belgium;

• Organic and conventional baby food from Chile;

• Authentic fresh brioche and macarons from France;

• Yuca and cassava from Costa Rica

• Natural juices from Georgia;

• Medicinal herbs from Morocco

• Coconut drinks from Vietnam;

• Hearts of palm from Ecuador

• Authentic Neapolitan pizza and Italian gelato.

“This clearly reflects a demand for global flavors, which is growing at a rapid rate as today’s consumers are looking for more global and authentic food experiences,” said Enriketa Beluli, PLMA’s Manager of Global Pavilions. “Globally inspired foods, spurred by travel, Instagram or TikTok, and multiculturalism, are being enjoyed increasingly by consumers. Retailers and manufacturers are expanding their global lines, supported by a growing number of global suppliers and global availability of ingredients.”

The Self-Care & Wellness section will feature 50 manufacturers from different countries, including Colombia, Turkey, South Korea, and will feature skincare, beauty and wellness products.

After a record-breaking show last year, PLMA has added an additional 100 booths in the “World of Private Label” section, which has been expanded this year from the North Hall to an upgraded location in the Main Hall of the show floor.

In total, the Show will feature 3,100 booths and 2,000 exhibitors.

PLMA Offers International Exhibitors Insights into Winning Business in the U.S. Market

As an exclusive benefit to its international exhibitors at PLMA’s upcoming 2025 “Store Brands Marketplace”

Private Label Trade Show in Chicago, 16-18 November, PLMA once again held an online educational session focusing on understanding the U.S retail and private label market dynamics and best practices for success.

Topics included the economics of private label in the U.S., regulatory basics, tariffs, and finding the best path to market and action checklists and requirements.

“Navigating the U.S. Private Label Market,” presented by industry veteran Jim Wisner, President, Wisner Marketing Group, was a complimentary two-part online program held 30 September and 01 October as part of PLMA’s on-going efforts to provide its exhibitors with the tools needed to sharpen their approach on the Show floor in November.

Get Involved in Store Brands Month: January 2026

By every metric, from retailer and manufacturer involvement to trade press and social media coverage to shopper response, the inaugural Store Brands Month celebrated this past January across the U.S. was deemed a total success.

Conceived by PLMA as an annual event, the direct-to-consumer program is the result of a partnership among American retail chains, their suppliers and other industry players to promote the quality, performance, value and innovation of private label products to their customers.

The principal goal is to increase consumer trial of store brands in all food and nonfood categories. Trial is widely seen as a gateway to new, satisfied store brand customers, increased overall sales and added shopper loyalty. Surveys show that sampling is store brands’ best friend when it comes to convincing consumers to switch their allegiance from national brands to private label.

The result of a good experience with their new choice more often than not leads consumers to forsake their previously favored national brand and change their preference to the private label. Furthermore, a satisfactory experience with a store brand in one category often encourages trial of store brands in other parts of the store, what is known as the products’ “halo effect.”

The program provided insightful and immediate takeaways for suppliers on how to create their own roadmap to best leverage their unique products and identify current trends that will influence decision making and acceptance as they enter the U.S. market.

“With the ongoing growth each year and more interest from international suppliers, as well as recent global political and economic changes, we were happy to offer our exhibitors this exclusive benefit,” said PLMA’s Enriketa Beluli, Manager, Global Pavilions. “The tailored webinar was created to provide insights on how our Show can open up new opportunities in the U.S. market.”

www.plma.com

“In the midst of a multiyear runup in sales and shares in the U.S., the time was right to foster even greater visibility among consumers to our thriving industry,” explained Peggy Davies, PLMA President. “By joining forces with our partners, we seized the opportunity to expand the presence and strength of the largest CPG brand in the store: private brands.”

Aldi, Albertsons, Associated Wholesale Grocers, Dollar General, K-VA-T, Raley’s, SpartanNash, Topco and Wakefern were among operators that supported the campaign. There was also widespread representation by manufacturers, suppliers, and brokers, including Advantage Solutions, AmeriQual, Federated Group, Pacific Coast Producers, Red Gold, Subco Foods, and many others.

PLMA’s Davies added that after an “effective and rewarding debut of getting the word out, the association and its Store Brands Month partners are organizing to expand and enhance the celebration,” which will be reprised in January 2026.

www.plma.com

Q&A with PLMA President Peggy Davies

Q.

The private label landscape has changed significantly in recent years (inflation, geopolitical shifts, evolving consumer behaviors). Which current trends do you see as the most important for manufacturers and retailers?

A.

The private label sector has undergone a remarkable transformation, shaped by economic pressures, shifting global dynamics, and rapidly changing shopper expectations. One of the most important trends is the rising demand for high-quality products at competitive prices. Consumers are no longer willing to compromise—value now means exceptional quality and affordability, creating opportunities for manufacturers and retailers to innovate and differentiate.

Sustainability is another powerful driver. Shoppers are increasingly aware of environmental and social impacts, which is pushing private label brands toward responsible sourcing, sustainable packaging, and greater transparency.

Finally, digital acceleration is rewriting the rules of engagement. E-commerce, social commerce, and omnichannel retailing are now central to reaching today’s tech-savvy, value-driven consumer—particularly Gen Z—requiring brands to invest in strong digital strategies and seamless cross-channel experiences.

Q.

What excites you most about the private label industry at the moment?

A.

What excites me most about the private label industry right now is the unprecedented commitment from retailers and manufacturers to push boundaries—investing in innovation, design, and product quality at a level we’ve never seen before. There’s a clear mission to deliver products that don’t just match national brands, but often surpass them, while still offering price points that make them accessible to a wide range of shoppers.

What’s especially energizing is how quickly store brands are adapting to what today’s consumers care about most—sustainability, wellness, and convenience—while still delivering exceptional value. This agility has transformed private label into a brand. It’s inspiring to be part of an industry that’s reshaping the way people shop.

Consumers are no longer willing to compromise— value now means exceptional quality and affordability.”

Q.

What will success look like for you with regard to PLMA’s Store Brands Marketplace’ trade show, both in terms of the outcome for exhibitors and impact on the global industry?

A.

Success at PLMA’s “Store Brand Marketplace” private label trade show isn’t defined solely by the transactions or conversations that happen over two days—it’s about the lasting value the event delivers. For exhibitors, it’s walking away with new business opportunities, stronger relationships, and a renewed sense of direction. For attendees, it’s leaving inspired, better informed, and equipped with ideas they can implement immediately.

True success is when the event helps advance the global private label industry—sparking innovation, building partnerships, and reinforcing the role these brands play as a driver of growth worldwide. When the benefits extend far beyond the show floor, we know we’ve accomplished something meaningful.

Cheers to Excellence: Private Label Wines for Every Occasion

In recent years, supermarket own brand wines have quietly become serious contenders in the global wine market. Once dismissed as budget-friendly and uninspiring, these private label wines are now earning accolades, customer loyalty, and a growing share of the wine aisle. Their success reflects a broader shift in consumer expectations and buying behaviour — prioritizing quality, value, and transparency.

The shift is evident in the numbers. In the United States, private label wine sales is still in its early stages, in the 52-weeks to 13 July 2025 sales reached $44.9 million, up 16.9% in value and 13.2% in units from the previous year. In about half of US states supermarkets or drug stores are not allowed to sell wine.

Europe’s private label wine market is more mature, across the 17 countries tracked by NIQ, sales reached €32.63 billion in the year to 15 March 2025, representing 28% of the total wine market—up from 27.6% a year earlier and 27% two years ago. The steady climb confirms private label’s resilience in a region where brand competition is fierce and premiumisation trends are reshaping consumer expectations.

Part of this momentum comes from tapping into emerging consumer behaviours. The low and no-alcohol segment, once peripheral, is gaining traction within supermarket wine portfolios. Waitrose reports a 32% rise in low/no-alcohol sales, with Coop Denmark recording a 27% lift for alcohol-free wine. For retailers, private label branding enables them to introduce these innovations, marrying health-conscious lifestyles with familiar wine-drinking rituals.

Equally influential is the way social media trends are reshaping consumption. Platforms like TikTok have spawned unconventional pairings— such as wine with ice cream—that open the door for occasion-based merchandising and cross-category promotions. For supermarket buyers, this is a chance to make wine relevant to a younger, more experimental audience, often using private label as the accessible entry point.

In Germany, discount chain Norma has launched an organic Tempranillo (La Mancha D.O.) under its Bio Sonne line, delivering organic quality in a budget-friendly format. It’s examples like this that show how retailers are bringing both sustainable credentials and true value into their own wine offerings.

Retailers are also using private label wines to spark discovery through culinary storytelling. Coop Italia, for instance, showcases its Fior Fiore wine range via a “Food Village” tour— pairing its own brand wines with local gastronomic specialties and wine tastings across Italian towns. This kind of experiential marketing reinforces private label as a portal to both tradition and local pride.

Sustainability is another frontier where private label wine is leading

rather than following. Aldi’s decision to reduce glass bottle weights across 20 million units—cutting from 409g to 371g—demonstrates how own label can drive supply chain efficiencies with environmental benefits. The retailer’s aluminium wine bottles, 75% lighter than glass and fully recyclable, push the innovation envelope further. Even boxed wine, once seen purely as a value option, is being reframed as both premium and sustainable, as with Aldi’s Le Petit Poulet Rosé from Provence.

Quality remains the foundation of private label’s success. In the UK, Tesco’s “Finest” range has gained a reputation for dependable, interesting wines—featuring sought-after region’s wines like the brilliant La Chablisienne Finest Chablis Premier Cru. Booths has built such a strong reputation—and paired it with such savvy branding—that the E.H. Booth & Co. label now serves as a mark of style and distinction, including elegant New World Wines from New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina. These types of own brand lines prove that well-curated quality can rival national brands in both taste and appeal.

A Delicious New Addition to the Chiaverini Range

Le Bontà Keeps Impressing with Innovations!

Le Bontà continues to impress with groundbreaking innovations! Chiaverini Firenze is set to revolutionize its portfolio with an exciting new launch: jams in aluminum tubes. Just two years after the international debut of its iconic jam range, and after latest new Hazelnut Spread, the historic Florentine brand does not stop its innovation strategy.

Introducing a game-changing innovation: practical, sustainable, and innovative

The first jam in an aluminum tube! Unique in the market, this practical and easy-to-use format ensures maximum freshness and convenience. Sustainable and fully recyclable, it reflects our commitment to the environment. With this iconic new design, we’re redefining the way we enjoy jam, making it even more versatile and modern—perfect for every moment of the day!

Not Just A Breakfast Spread, A Gourmet Lover’s Indulgence

Experience pure hazelnut bliss Chiaverini’s latest Hazelnut Cream is a true indulgence, crafted with 30% real hazelnuts and a time-honored recipe. Made with only the finest ingredients, it’s free from artificial flavors, colorings, preservatives, and palm oil. Its silky texture and rich, nutty flavor make it a must-have for any food lover’s pantry.

A Legacy of Dedication

Chiaverini Jams have been defining Florentine culture since 1928. Originating from the passion of the Chiaverini Brothers, their commitment to quality echoes in every jar, making Chiaverini a staple in Florentine homes. The secret to Chiaverini’s success lies in simplicity: just fruit, sugar, and passion. Each jar is a testament to the art of slow cooking, melding flavors into perfection. Chiaverini's jams are history, Florence's essence in every jar. Each represents dedication, heritage, and resilience. Chiaverini isn't just a taste of Florence; it's a taste of history, a flavor transcending time.

An Unmistakable Symbol

The packaging of the Chiaverini “Pail” is not just a container; it represents an evolution from rustic wood to sleek aluminum. The new line, featuring distinct colors for each flavor, caters to collectors while upholding the brand’s essence and tradition.

Chiaverini Jams is part of LeBontà Group, a Tuscan based company that brings together high-quality brands with a strong connotation of genuine and natural products. www.chiaverinifirenze.it/en www.lebonta.it/en

NOTABLE

Where Premium Quality Meets Private Label

Certified Origins is a trusted partner for high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and Mediterranean food products, offering customized private label programs for international retailers.

With decades of experience, we develop authentic, traceable food programs tailored to each retailer’s goals, sourcing directly from farms and cooperatives to ensure quality every step of the way.

Co-Creating Better Products

Private label is no longer just a cost-effective option; it’s an integral part of how people shop today. Across Europe and North America, store-brand offerings are driving loyalty, quality, and innovation. At Certified Origins, we see private label as a space where retailers can build identity and trust through purposeful development and tailored solutions. We collaborate closely with buyers to co-create product lines that reflect customer values, from responsible sourcing to health-forward choices.

A U.S.-European Model

Located in Newport News, Virginia, our bottling and logistics center embodies our integrated model: Mediterranean quality, know-how, and craftsmanship, delivered with North American speed and efficiency.

With teams in the U.S., Mexico, Italy, Spain, and China, we connect international supply with localized service, creating strategic opportunities for our partners across continents. Our adaptable network enables delivery within 4 to 8 weeks globally, or as fast as 2 days across key markets.

Certified Quality

From the very beginning, Certified Origins has always been dedicated to meeting and exceeding the highest global standards for food safety, quality, and transparency.

Through third-party certifications, advanced technology, and robust traceability systems, we constantly monitor our supply chain, share data with partners, and raise the bar in customer satisfaction. We are certified by IFS, BRC, and ISO 22005, and rely on advanced labs, blockchain, and external audits to ensure full compliance with international law and labeling requirements.

Industry Innovation

In partnership with the University of Salento, we’ve built a significant database based on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and isotopic signature to verify the authenticity and origin of our EVOOs. Using cutting-edge NMR analysis, we can trace each EVOO back to its verified source. Our database now includes over 1,000 unique olive oil profiles and continues to grow each year.

Responsible Sourcing

Certified Origins actively fosters collaboration across the supply chain to drive positive impact. We regularly distribute ESG supplier surveys to assess and align sustainability performance, partner on agricultural projects that promote climate resilience, and consistently explore better packaging alternatives.

We’ve implemented carbon compensation programs for some of our Italian EVOO lines and are working toward introducing reduction measures. Most of our olive oil packaging contains up to 50% recycled PET and cardboard, with ongoing efforts to increase these levels across our portfolio. In Italy, our bottling facility operates on renewable energy, including solar power and olive pits for heating, and is continuously monitored for energy efficiency.

Market Research

We believe it’s essential to share clear, timely insights in a market shaped by constant change. That’s why we publish monthly Olive Oil Market Reports and a quarterly bulletin, covering trends in production, pricing, logistics and more. We also contribute to editorial projects that highlight our team’s expertise and help advance conversations around building a more responsible food system.

Private Label Success Across Continents

WE SUPPORT LEADING RETAILERS WORLDWIDE.

We have a proven track record in delivering successful private label programs in extra virgin olive oil and specialty food categories.

With offices in the U.S., Mexico, Italy, Spain, and China, and bottling operations in both the U.S. and Italy, we provide global reach with localized execution. Our end-to-end model supports retail growth with sourcing, quality assurance, packaging, and logistics tailored to each market.

Leader in the Food Canning Sector Now Offers Pasta

Too!

Headquartered in Angri, in the province of Salerno, Italy, La Doria exemplifies Italian excellence in the food canning sector. Specializing in the production of tomato derivatives, ready-made sauces, canned pulses, juices, and fruit-based beverages, the company stands out as Europe’s leading producer of canned pulses, peeled tomatoes, and tomato pulp for the retail sector. Furthermore, La Doria ranks among Italy’s top producers of fruit juices and is the leading European producer of private-label ready-made sauces. Recently, through a significant acquisition, the Group has expanded its portfolio to include pasta, offering an even broader range of products.

La Doria is a trusted supplier to major retail and discount chains worldwide. Its commitment to private label production is evident, with over 97% of the Group’s revenue derived from this segment. The company aims to offer

high-quality products at competitive prices, positioning itself as a strong alternative to commercial brands. With extensive expertise and a continuous focus on research and development, La Doria is synonymous with reliability and innovation in the food sector. With 12 production plants located across Campania (Angri, Sarno, Fisciano, Salerno, and Pastorano), Emilia-Romagna (Parma and Faenza), Basilicata (Lavello) Liguria (Chiusanico) and Lombardia (Verolanuova e Fara Gera d’Adda). La Doria has successfully combined Italian production tradition with a strong international presence. Exports account for over 80% of revenue, with a solid foothold in key markets such as the United Kingdom, Germany, the rest of Europe, Australia, and Japan. This global success is based on careful selection of raw materials and cuttingedge production processes that ensure high-quality standards.

La Doria is not only a successful company but also a responsible enterprise that operates according to well-defined ethical principles. Environmental sustainability, legality, transparency, and respect for human rights are fundamental values guiding every aspect of production and distribution. The Group is firmly committed to responsible energy resource management, waste recycling, and reducing the environmental impact of packaging. Moreover, La Doria promotes fair working conditions throughout the supply chain, collaborating closely with producers’ organizations to ensure respect for workers’ rights.

Since its founding, La Doria has maintained a strong connection with its local community by supporting educational initiatives for young people, urban regeneration projects, and social inclusion programs. The company contributes to the growth of the local economy by sourcing from a network of suppliers primarily located in Southern Italy, thereby further strengthening the national production fabric.

Thanks to its commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation, La Doria remains a benchmark in the international food industry. With a continually evolving product range and a strategy focused on responsible growth, the Group establishes itself as an outstanding partner for largescale distribution, bringing the best of Italian food tradition to millions of consumers worldwide.

commerciale.estero@gruppoladoria.it

A Key Player In The Consumer Goods And Away-From-Home Markets

Lucart, a major European manufacturer of thin MG paper for flexible packaging, is a key player in the consumer goods and away-from-home markets as a producer and transformer of tissue and airlaid paper. Its attention to people, sustainable processes, and approach to innovation means it offers cutting-edge products that meet market challenges and customers’ needs

Fiberpack® is their flagship project in this field. It combines advanced technology with environmentally friendly processes, demonstrating that circular economy principles are fully applicable to the tissue sector.

In 2010, Lucart created a project called “EcoNatural, “ based on the idea of utilizing all the elements of beverage cartons according to circular economy principles. This type of packaging is widely used in the food industry to protect and preserve food, and it has a high natural cellulose fiber content, making it more ecological compared to other packaging materials of fossil origin. Due to its mixed composition of cellulose fibers (74%), aluminum (4%), and polyethylene (22%), this material is often not recovered at the end of its life or is only partially recovered.

The production process relies on innovative technology that separates cellulose fibers found in beverage cartons from polyethylene and aluminum through physical-mechanical action. With this technology, harmful substances that may affect people or the environment are avoided. They produce tissue products using the fibers obtained through this process and recover aluminum and polyethylene, converting them into a homogeneous material called Al.Pe.®, which other industries use to create various items.

The tons of Fiberpack® paper produced by Lucart from 2013 to 2023 have contributed to the recovery of over 10.7 billion beverage cartons, saving more than 4.6 million trees and preventing over 281,300 tons of CO2e from being emitted into the atmosphere.

Another important piece of news concerns the new range of products called Infinity, which was launched in 2023.

Infinity is the plant pot line resulting from the collaboration between Lucart and Pasquini & Bini, with the contribution of the Department of Agricultural, Food and Agro-Environmental Sciences of the University of Pisa. The pots are made from GranPlast material, which is the polyethylene and aluminum separated during the beverage carton process at the Borgo a Mozzano plant.

Lucart is also the only brand in its target market that offers Airlaid products with exceptional absorbency and strength. The Airlaid technology utilizes long,

highly resistant cellulose fibers that never come into contact with water during the production process (dry paper) to remain super absorbent.

Fibers treated with this process naturally form a “dam” structure, yielding outstanding results: they can absorb up to seven times their weight and, thanks to their exceptional resistance, can be reused up to twenty times, compared to one or two for competitors products.

Lucart is a company composed of individuals who opt for innovative and sustainable processes in the development, transformation, and manufacturing of paper products, collaborating responsibly for the future of both their business and the planet.

Lucart has always been at the forefront of studying innovative packaging that reduces the environmental impact of its products. After launching the world’s first line of toilet paper with Mater-Bi corn starch packaging in 1997, the company developed a series of products with completely plasticfree packaging in 2019.

Colored by nature.

OROPAN S.p.A.: Your Sustainable Bakery Partner

OROPAN S.p.A., the leading Italian bakery company producing authentic durum wheat breads from the Apulia region in southern Italy, will exhibit at ANUGA in Cologne from October 4th to 8th at hall 3.2 booth B38.

“We warmly invite all our international customers and industry professionals to visit us during the show to discover our latest product offerings and experience the quality of our world-renowned breads, which we distribute across 25 markets”, said Francesco Forte, Commercial Director of OROPAN SpA.

Don’t miss the chance to explore Oropan’s innovative and sustainable bakery solutions, designed to drive success in both in-store retail and foodservice.

Company Uniqueness

Founded by Vito Forte, one of Altamura’s most renowned bakers since 1956, Oropan S.p.A. embodies the rich tradition of Italian bread-making. As a child, Vito Forte collected hand-kneaded dough from local housewives to take to the community oven for baking. This early experience laid the foundation for his mastery of traditional bread-making techniques, utilizing durum wheat semolina, mother yeast (lievito madre), and a slow natural raising process. The result is a unique range of breads and bakery products characterized by their distinctive crispy crust and golden-yellow texture, naturally containing protein and antioxidants.

Product Range and Quality Certifications

Today, Oropan S.p.A. stands as one of Italy’s most respected bakery companies. The firm successfully merges traditional production methods with innovative technologies to create a diverse range of products, including bread, focaccia, friselle, and bread rolls. With significant production capabilities, Oropan S.p.A. is the ideal partner

for both international retailers and foodservice distributors. Theirs products are distributed daily across +2,400 retail stores in Italy and in 25 international markets (both EU and non-EU). A hallmark of the company is its robust quality management system, certified by esteemed organizations such as BRCGS (AA+), IFS (Higher Level), ISO 9001:2015.

Your Sustainable Bread Partner

OROPAN S.p.A. places sustainability at the heart of its operations, fully embracing ESG principles to foster a better future for the environment, its employees, local communities, and future generations. The company’s steadfast commitment to social and environmental responsibility is reflected in its numerous voluntary certifications, including ECOVADIS bronze medal, ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management System) and ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems). Additionally, Oropan S.p.A. has led innovation in the Italian market by introducing the first bread made from a sustainable and certified supply chain under ISCC Plus.

gourmetbreads@oropan.it

New, Ready-Topped Chilled Pinsa from Valsa Group

Valsa Group, as a leading manufacturer of frozen, chilled, and ambient pizza, pinsa, focaccia, and snacks, defines its main goal as promoting the authentic Italian food lifestyle worldwide. The headquarters is situated in Valsamoggia, in the very heart of Italy. This is where the company’s history began, yet our roots extend from North to South through our seven plants, embodying a truly Italian entrepreneurial journey. Our daily commitment can easily be summarized: CULTURE . EXCELLENCE . INNOVATION.

Always keeping consumers’ needs and emerging trends in mind, Valsa Group is introducing a ready-topped, chilled pinsa. This outstanding product is designed to maximize convenience for final consumers, with its many delicious toppings that can be baked in a few minutes straight from the fridge.

This new pinsa range aligns with our core quality standards: GMOfree, clean label without added preservatives, only 100% Italian tomatoes, and crafted to respect authentic Italian traditions through natural long leavening and hand stretching.

An exclusive mix of flours and high hydration make our pinsa the best way to experience the authentic taste and scents of Italy. Available in many flavors: Margherita, Diavola, Amatriciana, and many more. The perfect way to savor the best Italian bakery heritage: experience Italy in every single bite.

Chilled or chilled from frozen: an explosion of flavors with the high, outstanding quality you can find within Valsa Group only.

The Group’s strategic strength lies in combining traditional manufacturing processes with a greater focus on consumer convenience, while maintaining the highest quality standards. In the modern market, convenience supported by premium quality is essential to creating value in the supply chain.

Valsa Group is a reliable and wellknown business partner in 50 countries worldwide; this is a result of the choices and investments in sustainability, production capacity, organizational integration and convenience innovation, with a special commitment to process transparency, waste reduction and green energy use.

Through the brands Valpizza, La Pizza+1, Forno Ludovico, Megic Pizza, Ghiottelli, Il Borgo, Tuscanya Bakery and Yahm, Valsa Group is the unique large-scale and highly qualified partner able to supply a wide range of items in each category, from frozen to deli.

The V-Label: The International Vegetarian and Vegan Brand Par Excellence

The V-Label brand is an internationally recognized symbol that identifies vegetarian, vegan, and raw vegan products and services par excellence.

Created in 1976 as an institutional symbol of the Italian Vegetarian Association, it is now the most recognized synonym for vegetarian and vegan products among consumers worldwide. Its clear, unique image is intuitively linked to vegetarianism and veganism in every part of the globe, effectively transcending any language barriers.

Officially presented internationally at the first European Vegetarian Congress held in Italy in 1985, it quickly spread first to Europe, and shortly thereafter to the rest of the world.

The V-Label brand is now registered in over 70 countries worldwide and can be found globally: it clearly and safely identifies products and services of various types, from food to textiles and from footwear to cosmetics, as compatible with the vegetarian and vegan lifestyle.

But being international doesn’t just mean being widespread, it requires much more than this. It involves the ability to effectively transmit and receive often technical content without making mistakes. This is made possible by the close relationships we have cultivated with our customers. In most cases, the V-Label brand is distributed by local managers who, being

familiar with the local language and culture, can better convey information to producers and consumers. This local approach also enables us to handle technical material in documents without risking translation errors or misunderstandings.

Despite the widespread availability of the brand in extremely different areas, both in terms of culture and traditions, the V-Label brand has maintained the same verification criteria and standards in every place. This uniformity aims to offer seriousness and quality to consumers who rely on the V-Label brand when choosing which products to buy.

The balance between the local approach and adaptation and the standardization of criteria and processes so that they remain unchanged is what makes the V-Label brand truly international, even more than its widespread coverage.

Are you looking for expertise in vegetarian and vegan expert with world-class experience? Contact us by writing to: segreteria@vlabel.it

www.vlabel.org

Innovating Cleanliness: Whitecat’s 76-Year Journey Safeguarding Healthy Families

Chapter 1: A cat was born in 1948

In 1948, in Yongtai Village, Shanghai county, China, an entrepreneur started a small, private, manufacturing company with a goal to provide laundry soap to local residents in postwar China. This was the start of what would be later known as “Shanghai Bái Māo” by locals, or Shanghai Whitecat, he embarked on a journey of necessity, groundbreaking innovation, and a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the healthy lives of families. Motivated by necessity after the end of World War II, Shanghai Whitecat worked diligently to provide much needed laundry cleaning products that surpassed traditional soap, made from soap bean and “Yizi” (made from pig pancreas and plant ash), for more effective cleanliness and well-being to local families.

Chapter 2: Pioneering Innovation since 1959

In 1959, Shanghai Whitecat achieved its first of many mmilestones by introducing the first domestically produced package of synthetic laundry detergent powder “Gong nong” in mainland China. Since then, Whitecat has achieved many milestones.

• 1963: 1st autonomous washing powder paper bag packaging machine

• 1981: 1st domestically developed and produced pack of Super Concentrated Laundry Powder

• 1987: Whitecat brand and our Jaimei brand Laundry Powder awarded the “Shanghai Famous Brand” certificate

• 1995: Whitecat Laundry Powder was awarded the “Golden Bridge Award” for National Best selling Domestic Product for 4 consecutive years.

• 2004: Whitecat liquid detergent was chosen as “China Famous Brand”

• 2018: Whitecat Lemon Black Tea Dishwashing liquid won the “2017 China Biggest Award of Quality Consumer – Quality Gold Award”

• 2018: Shanghai Hutchison Whitecat Co., Ltd., was awarded “China’s Top 100 Daily Chemicals”

Chapter 3: Longevity Through Innovation

As Shanghai Whitecat celebrates its longevity, our narrative transcends labels and brands. It’s a story of enduring innovation, necessity, and lives touched. Whitecat is humbled by the trust of millions of families who rely on us daily to safeguard their healthy lives.

Trust built over many decades of hard-work and investment in research and development.

• More than 100 national patents

• Millions of dollars spent every year in R&D

• Over 50 research and development personnel (> 50% with Master’s or doctoral degrees)

Our technology center is the only national standard laboratory in the light chemicals industry.

(GC/MS), Fourier infrared spectrometer and other advanced international standard analysis and testing instruments ensure we keep our commitment to delivering highquality, cost-effective Home Care and Personal Care products to safeguard the healthy lives of families into a better tomorrow.

Chapter 4: Sustainability for a Better Tomorrow

Whitecat’s dynamic culture of innovation, born out of necessity in 1948, is now shifting to Sustainability, safeguarding healthy families better for all, including our planet.

We are very excited to launch our sustainable, nature inspired, line of products for our private label naturebased, sustainable Home Care and Personal Care products that your customers will simply Love!

• Concentrated cleaning pods/ sheets/tablets

• Lactic acid-based cleaning products

• Soda-based cleaning products And more innovative products to come.

Join us in this exhilarating journey towards a greener, more sustainable tomorrow with Whitecat!

Investments in latest scientific equipment such as gas chromatography/mass spectrometry www.whitecatusa.com

World’s Largest Food Trade Fair

4 – 8 October Cologne, Germany

Try out innovations and experience tastes, establish new contacts and intensify existing partnerships, profit from experts and understand trends: Anuga unites the world of food and beverages into a unique trade fair experience.

With 10 trade shows under one roof it brings supply and demand together in a targeted manner. Attractive events, special events and congresses ensure an inspiring transfer of knowledge. As a business, ordering and networking platform, Anuga creates the ideal basis for valuable business relations and sustainable growth.

Anuga not only provides a platform for networking but also offers profound insights into the pioneering developments of the industry. The congress and event program present a diverse range of conferences, workshops, experience areas, and speaker sessions. Key industry concerns are addressed, while innovations are showcased and discussed.

Strategic alliance reinforces Iberian food market: Koelnmesse and IFEMA launch Anuga Select Ibérica

Koelnmesse, organiser of the world's biggest trade fair for food and beverages, Anuga, and IFEMA MADRID, one of the biggest exhibition centres in Europe, have formed a strategic alliance to strengthen the Spanish and entire Iberian food market. The cooperation unites the strengths of both partners and leads to the premiere of a new trade fair format: Anuga Select Ibérica, which will celebrate its first edition in Madrid from 16 to 18 February 2027. The aim is to bring together local and international industry players, boost trade and further develop Spain as an important hub of the international food industry.

Anuga Select Ibérica is the result of the integration and further development of two established trade fair formats of IFEMA MADRID: Meat Attraction is an international trade fair that covers the entire value chain of the meat industry, focusing on production, export and technologies.

With its focus on Spain and Portugal as key growth drivers, Anuga Select Ibérica is sending a strong signal for the region. Thanks to its geographical location, the Iberian Peninsula plays a key role in the trade between Europe, Latin America and North Africa. Anuga Select Ibérica aims to optimally exploit the potential of the Iberian market while at the same time building bridges to the Latin American export markets.

Gerald Böse, President and Chief Executive Officer of Koelnmesse GmbH, and Daniel Martínez, Executive Vice President of IFEMA MADRID, signed the agreement for this strategic partnership in Madrid on 29 July 2025.

www.anuga-iberica.com

VERTEX AWARDS 2025

THE WINNERS ARE...

Welcome to the 12th Annual Vertex Award winner’s feature. This year’s competition included entries from 30 countries Each represents the absolute best in package design from around the globe regardless of who owns the brand. That’s right; these are the best package designs in the world – full stop.

CHRISTOPHER

DURHAM

President, The Velocity Institute

Co-founder, The Vertex Awards

Brought to you by

PHILLIP RUSSO

Publisher, Global Retail Brands

Co-founder, The Vertex Awards

BEST OF SHOW

SANCHEZ ROMERO CANNED FISH

SANCHEZ ROMERO

SANCHEZ ROMERO

SPAIN

SUPPERSTUDIO

PACKAGED GOODS

NORTH AMERICA & SOUTH AMERICA

GIANT X SEA ISLE SPIKE ICE TEA

THE GIANT CO.

UNITED STATES

AHOLD DELHAIZE USA

LICENSED OR CO-BRAND

EUROPE & AFRICA

KRUIDVAT

LIMITED EDITION

SNOWMAN

KRUIDVAT

KRUIDVAT

NETHERLANDS

GUTS&GLORIOUS.

HOLIDAY OR LIMITED-EDITION

CHOICE

ASIA, AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND

WOOLWORTHS HEALTHY CRACKERS

WOOLWORTHS

WOOLWORTHS

AUSTRALIA

BOXER & CO.

ORGANIC AND NATURAL PACKAGED GOODS

NORTH AMERICA & SOUTH AMERICA EQUATOR

AGENCY OF THE YEAR

EUROPE & AFRICA

SUPPER STUDIO

BRONZE

SILVER

ASIA, AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND

MOTOR BRAND DESIGN

SILVER

14 WINNERS • 5 COUNTRIES • 6 AGENCIES | GOLD: 7 SILVER: 5 • BRONZE: 2

YEAR

NORTH AMERICA & SOUTH AMERICA

THE FRESH MARKET

RETAILER OF THE YEAR

EUROPE & AFRICA

GOLD SANCHEZ ROMERO

RETAILER OF THE YEAR

ASIA, AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND

ALDI AUSTRALIA

2025 VERTEX AWARDS

ALBERT HEIJN SNACKUP

ALBERT HEIJN

ALBERT HEIJN

NETHERLANDS

BRAND POTENTIAL PACKAGED GOODS

OVERJOYED HALLOWEEN

OVERJOYED HALLOWEEN ALBERTSONS

UNITED STATES

ALBERTSONS IN-HOUSE PACKAGED GOODS

OVERJOYED CONES AND CUPS

OVERJOYED CONES AND CUPS ALBERTSONS

UNITED STATES STERLING BRANDS FROZEN

SPECIALLY SELECTED FLAVOURED CHEDDARS

SPECIALLY SELECTED

ALDI INC.

UNITED STATES

MOTOR BRAND DESIGN

PACKAGED GOODS

FARMWOOD FAKEAWAY

FARMWOOD

ALDI AUSTRALIA

AUSTRALIA

MOTOR BRAND DESIGN

FROZEN

HILLCREST LOW SUGAR COCONUT BARS

HILLCREST

ALDI AUSTRALIA

AUSTRALIA

MOTOR BRAND DESIGN

PACKAGED GOODS

REGAL NO SUGAR

FLAVORED SOFT DRINKS

REGAL

ALDI AUSTRALIA

AUSTRALIA

MOTOR BRAND DESIGN

BEVERAGES: NON-ALCOHOLIC

BARISSIMO

SWEET ITALY

FLAVORED GROUND COFFEE

BARISSIMO

ALDI US

UNITED STATES

EQUATOR DESIGN

PACKAGED GOODS

SWEET HAVEN FROZEN DESSERT

SWEET HAVEN

ALDI AUSTRALIA

AUSTRALIA

MOTOR BRAND DESIGN

FROZEN

CLANCY’S SWEET POTATO CHIPS

CLANCY’S

ALDI US

UNITED STATES

EQUATOR DESIGN

PACKAGED GOODS

TAKEAWAY READY MEALS

CO-OP

CO-OP

UNITED KINGDOM

EQUATOR DESIGN

INTERNATIONAL/SPECIALTY FOOD

AMOR DE BELLOTA SLICED

AMOR DE BELLOTA

AMOR DE BELLOTA

SPAIN

SUPPERSTUDIO

PACKAGED GOODS

2025 VERTEX AWARDS

CO-OP BAKE AT HOME FROZEN PASTRIES

BAKE AT HOME

CO-OP

UNITED KINGDOM

EQUATOR DESIGN FROZEN

WELL MARKET

WELL MARKET CVS HEALTH

UNITED STATES MARKS, AN SGS CO. NEW BRAND

THE ICE CREAM BAR

DOSROMBOS

DOSROMBOS

SPAIN

SUPPERSTUDIO NEW BRAND

TEA AND INFUSIONS

EL CORTE INGLÉS

EL CORTE INGLÉS

SPAIN

SUPPERSTUDIO

PACKAGED GOODS

CONDOMS

ETOS

ETOS

NETHERLANDS

DESIGN BRIDGE AND PARTNERS

REDESIGNED BRAND

CONDOMS

ETOS

ETOS

NETHERLANDS

DESIGN BRIDGE AND PARTNERS

HEALTH CARE

2025 VERTEX AWARDS GOLD

CONFITURE

JUMBO’S CONFITURE

JUMBO SUPERMARKTEN B.V.

NETHERLANDS

OD DESIGNSTUDIO

PACKAGED GOODS

FRUIT SPREADS

JUMBO’S

JUMBO SUPERMARKTEN B.V.

NETHERLANDS

OD DESIGNSTUDIO

PACKAGED GOODS

MEXICAN FOOD

JUMBO’S

JUMBO SUPERMARKTEN B.V.

NETHERLANDS

OD DESIGNSTUDIO

INTERNATIONAL/SPECIALTY FOOD

PASTA SAUCES

JUMBO’S

JUMBO SUPERMARKTEN B.V.

NETHERLANDS

OD DESIGNSTUDIO

INTERNATIONAL/SPECIALTY FOOD

HOME AMBIANCE

REED DIFFUSERS

KRUIDVAT

KRUIDVAT

NETHERLANDS

GUTS&GLORIOUS

HOME CARE & CLEANING

ABOUND

ABOUND

KROGER

UNITED STATES

THINKHAUS IDEA FACTORY

REDESIGNED BRAND

SEXUAL WELLBEING, SEXTOYS

KRUIDVAT

KRUIDVAT

NETHERLANDS

BRANDNEW DESIGN AMSTERDAM

HEALTH CARE

NEDERLANDS

OPENLUCHTMUSEUM BEERS

NEDERLANDS OPENLUCHTMUSEUM

NEDERLANDS OPENLUCHTMUSEUM

NETHERLANDS

BRUM BRAND- AND PACKAGING DESIGNERS

BEVERAGES: ALCOHOLIC

BARE

BARE

LANDERS

PHILIPPINES

DAYMON DESIGN

ORGANIC AND NATURAL HBC & BABY

INTERNATIONAL RIOS

RIOS

PENNY INTERNATIONAL

CZECH REPUBLIC

ELFENBEIN STUDIOS GMBH & CO. KG

REDESIGNED BRAND

R ASIAN TASTE KIT

R REMA 1000 NORWAY EVERLAND

INTERNATIONAL/SPECIALTY FOOD

PREMIUM DESSERTS

R REMA 1000 NORWAY EVERLAND FROZEN

SANCHEZ

ROMERO

SANCHEZ ROMERO

SANCHEZ ROMERO

SPAIN

SUPPERSTUDIO

NEW BRAND

2025 VERTEX AWARDS

CANNED VEGETABLES

SANCHEZ ROMERO

SANCHEZ ROMERO

SPAIN

SUPPERSTUDIO

PACKAGED GOODS

CHRISTMAS SWEETS

SANCHEZ ROMERO

SANCHEZ ROMERO

SPAIN

SUPPERSTUDIO

HOLIDAY OR LIMITED-EDITION

2025 VERTEX AWARDS GOLD

PREMIUM QUALITY NUT MIXES

MINASAMANO OSUMITSUKI

SEIYU

JAPAN

MOMENTUM JAPAN

PACKAGED GOODS

PICK ME UP PROVISIONS

PICK ME UP PROVISIONS

STAPLES

UNITED STATES

MBD

NEW BRAND

PREMIUM GELATO

SPROUTS

SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET

UNITED STATES

MBD

FROZEN

2025 VERTEX AWARDS GOLD

KITCHEN FOILS

TALABAT

TALABAT

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

DAYMON DESIGN

COOKING & KITCHENWARE

THE GOOD WITCH CLEANING

THE GOOD WITCH

UDEA (EKOPLAZA)

NETHERLANDS

BRUM BRAND- AND PACKAGING DESIGNERS

HOME CARE & CLEANING

GOURMET POPCORN

THE FRESH MARKET

THE FRESH MARKET

UNITED STATES

EQUATOR DESIGN

PACKAGED GOODS

2025 VERTEX AWARDS GOLD

YARRAH

YARRAH ORGANIC PET FOOD

ZOOPLUS | FRESSNAPF | EKOPLAZA | BIOCOOP

NETHERLANDS

PEPPEL DESIGN

PET PRODUCTS

ALBERT HEIJN BIO SOEPEN

ALBERT HEIJN BIO

ALBERT HEIJN

NETHERLANDS

BRAND POTENTIAL

PACKAGED GOODS

VERTEX AWARDS 2026:

Call for Entries Opens November 14

The spotlight is once again on excellence in Retailer-owned Brand package design. The Vertex Awards, recognized globally as the premier competition for brand design, will officially open for entries on November 14, 2025. Designers, agencies, and retailers everywhere are invited to submit their best work and showcase the creativity shaping today’s retailerowned brand, private brand, and private label programs.

Since its founding in 2014, the Vertex Awards has grown into the largest competition of its kind. What started as an idea to give Retailer-owned Brands a stage of their own has become a truly global celebration of design. Over the years, winners have come from every corner of the world, from supermarket icons in Europe to emerging retailers in Asia to fresh, bold concepts in North America. Each year, the awards tell a story about where the industry is headed and how design continues to evolve to meet the needs of shoppers.

“Every year the Vertex Awards spotlight the very best thinking in brand, design, and execution for Retailer-owned Brands,” says Christopher Durham, Co-Founder of the Vertex Awards. “Great design changes how people shop. It builds trust, drives trial, and elevates entire categories. We cannot wait to see what this year’s creative community brings.”

His fellow Co-Founder, Phillip Russo, Publisher of Global Retail Brands magazine, adds: “From private label to private brand to Retailer-owned Brand, design has the power to connect with

CHRISTOPHER DURHAM PRESIDENT

VELOCITY

consumers in ways that shape loyalty and long-term growth. This competition continues to raise the bar globally, and we are proud to champion the creativity behind the brands people bring into their homes every day.”

A Global Benchmark for Design

Entries are welcome from retailers, design agencies, manufacturers, and in-house creative teams. Only Retailer-owned Brands, private brands, and private labels are eligible. National brands are not included.

The competition features more than a dozen categories, including food, beverage, household, health and beauty, baby, pet, seasonal, innovation, sustainable design, and limited edition. An international panel of judges will review every entry anonymously, scoring them on Creativity, Consumer Relevance, Executional Excellence, and Business Impact.

Winners will be honored with Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards, along with special recognitions such as Best of Show, Publisher’s Choice, Design Agency of the Year, and Retailer of the Year. With entries coming from dozens of countries, the Vertex Awards remain the standard for creativity and performance in Retailer-owned Brand, private brand, and private label design.

And this year, the celebration will be bigger than ever. Winners of the 2025 competition will be recognized at Vertex Awards Galas in New York and Amsterdam in May 2026. These gatherings bring together designers,

INSTITUTE

retailers, and thought leaders to honor the best work in the industry and to connect a global community passionate about Retailer-owned Brands.

Raising the Bar for Retailer-owned Brands

The Vertex Awards are more than a celebration of individual projects. They shine a light on the entire Retailer-owned Brand industry, while also recognizing the work being done in private brands and private labels. The awards help elevate design as a driver of business success and a powerful way to build consumer loyalty.

As Russo points out, the work recognized through the Vertex Awards often shapes the way millions of people experience products in their daily lives. It is a reminder that Retailer-owned Brand design is not an afterthought, but a force that reflects both creativity and innovation.

Entries Open 14 November www.vertexawards.org.

Christopher Durham President of the Velocity Institute. Prior to this he founded the groundbreaking site My Private Brand. He is the co-founder of The Vertex Awards. He began his retail career building brands at Food Lion and Lowe’s Home Improvement. Durham has worked with retailers around the world, including Albertsons, Family Dollar, Petco, Staples, Office Depot, Best Buy, Metro Canada. Durham has published seven definitive books on private brands, including Fifty2: The My Private Brand Project and Vanguard: Vintage Originals.

MBD WINS 1O VERTEX AWARDS AT THE 2025 VELOCITY CONFERENCE

In today’s competitive retail environment, packaging must do more than just catch the eye—it has to tell a story, deliver on brand promise, and forge an emotional connection in a matter of seconds.

This is the challenge we embrace every day at MBD. And this year, we’re proud to see that work recognized on a global stage.

At the 2025 Vertex Awards— announced during the Velocity Conference in Charlotte—MBD took home ten awards across six different retailers. The Vertex Awards celebrate the best in private brand package design from around the world, and each entry is judged on creativity, marketability, and innovation. We’re thrilled that our clients’ brands stood out in such a competitive field.

AWARD-WINNING DESIGNS:

Sprouts Organic Kombucha

CATEGORY:

Beverages – Non-Alcoholic (ready to drink)

To appeal to health-conscious shoppers, MBD designed a fruitforward mandala background and a tea bag–shaped placard that nods to the kombucha’s natural roots. Vibrant, earthy colors and fruity imagery enhance taste appeal, while the overall design reflects the organic simplicity and functional benefits that matter most to Sprouts’ core consumers.

Sprouts Premium Gelato

CATEGORY: Frozen

Inspired by small-batch, gourmet gelato brands, this design brings flavor to life with custom illustrations that hint at each indulgent variety. A bold yet elegant type system reinforces the premium nature of the product, while a playful, flavorforward color palette introduces an unexpected pop that reflects Sprouts’ unique and creative flavor combinations.

Sprouts Italian Soda

CATEGORY:

Beverages – Non-Alcoholic (ready to drink)

This vintage-style design gives a playful, farmers market spin to a classic Italian beverage. Retro fonts, nostalgic illustrations, and a “Product of Italy” stamp combine with Sprouts’ unique personality, creating a package that feels both timeless and delightfully unexpected on shelf.

BJ’s Diapers

CATEGORY:

Baby – Diapers, wipes, medicine, food

MBD developed a cheerful, modern look for BJ’s premium diaper line, using size-specific woodland animal illustrations to engage parents and support easy navigation. A vertical holding device simplifies shopability, while a soft tan background paired with bright, happy accents delivers a premium yet approachable tone for the caregiving set.

BJ’s Frozen Appetizers

CATEGORY: Frozen

This redesign establishes a cohesive visual system across both Everyday and Premium tiers, using rich topdown food photography and SKUspecific color blocking to support appetite appeal and variety. A dark blue marble background adds contrast and sophistication, giving this versatile product line a unified, high-quality feel.

PriceSmart Pasta

CATEGORY: International/Specialty Food

Balancing fun and authenticity, this design uses whimsical raw pasta patterns set against a rich blue background and paired with upscale type. A prominent “Italy bug” acts as a seal of quality and provenance, lending credibility to a beloved pantry staple while making it visually stand out.

Smart & Final Mexican Breads & Cookies

CATEGORY: Packaged Goods

MBD honored cultural heritage through a vibrant, papel picado–inspired design that celebrates traditional Mexican baking. Bold colors, simple typography, and color-coded panels create a festive yet practical packaging solution that makes navigation easy while adding excitement to shelf and pantry.

7-Eleven Sparkling Tea Beverages

CATEGORY: Beverages – Non-Alcoholic (ready to drink)

This sparkling tea line delivers a light, refreshing, and elevated shelf presence, featuring realistic fruit illustrations, subtle bubble motifs, and premium aluminum effects. A clean white background and sidepanel adaptogen callouts convey clarity and function, appealing to wellness-minded consumers seeking better-for-you refreshment.

Pick Me Up Provisions

CATEGORY: New Brand

MBD collaborated with Staples Brands Group to launch this vibrant new breakroom brand from the ground up—which won TWO Vertex Awards! The teams developed everything from name and logo to packaging and strategy. The final design evokes the feeling of a cozy local café, with energizing colors and warm, approachable touches that bring positivity and personality to office culture.

Winning these ten Vertex Awards is more than a milestone—it’s a testament to the collaborative spirit we share with our clients and the dedication our team pours into every project. At MBD, we believe retail brands deserve bold, beautiful, and strategic design—and we’re proud to help them stand out, connect with consumers, and succeed at shelf.

Congratulations to all the 2025 Vertex Award winners and thank you to our partners for the opportunity to bring your brands to life.

Katie Locke

If you’ve ever met Katie, you’ve seen or heard her excitement for building or rebuilding brands. Her passions also include just about every facet of food and eating experiences. For the past 13 years, Katie has worked in Sales & Marketing for Marketing by Design (MBD), a branding and packaging design agency specializing in high volume retailer programs.

DEAR AMAZON, I LOVE YOU TAKE 2

My passion for everything about them except their private brands

Dear Amazon,

I wrote you back in March 2017, eight years ago in a magazine called Global Retail Brands and expressed how much I love you. I still do, but with one continuing and nagging exception. I still think your own brands are a confusing array of products, with lots of brand language and nomenclature which makes it tough for me to decipher as one of your most loyal consumers.

Don’t get me wrong, your somewhat incoherent own brand program doesn’t change my love. Your entrepreneurial story is amazing, and Bezos is on the Mount Rushmore of inventors, and most of us humbly couldn’t exist without you. You pulled my family through Covid, making it easier for me to navigate a messy retail world. I shop you more than any other retailer. I find things easily across your 600+ million SKU assortment, from unique hardware screws I can’t find at Home Depot to furniture that fits a unique bedroom nook to key grocery items I can’t find at my local store.

But your own brands, ohhhhhh your own brands. As retailers continue to evolve and create programs of distinction, yours are still largely inscrutable even though many are clearly identifiable as yours. Let’s start with your Amazon “family” and name lineage.

Amazon Elements

Amazon Essentials

Amazon Basics

Amazon Fresh

Amazon Grocery

Amazon Saver

Amazon Basic Care

Amazon Commercial

For the sub-brands that fall under the Amazon umbrella name, “how do they really compare” is one question that a consumer might have.

What makes an amazon basics product different than an amazon saver, other than the category it represents? Is a basics better, the same or more economical than a saver? Seems like a value tier to me, but it is not abundantly clear.

When multiple Amazon brands exist in the same category, what distinguishes one versus another. In the crackers category, how are amazon saver, amazon grocery and 365 brand all different and distinct (and what is especially confusing is that the amazon saver used to be Happy Belly?)

In paper (bath tissue), how is amazon basics different than Presto, and how do I judge the quality level? Again, you would think that “basics” might indicate a value level, but it is tough to gauge.

Here is amazon basics competing against amazon elements in the same category and the same variety of vitamin. Not sure through the naming or packaging how we are supposed to judge them as consumers.

This all represents confusion even within the Amazon brand name umbrella. “Elements”, “Basics”, “Essentials” and “Savers” all are close cousins and synonyms.

However, what about all those other brands that don’t trade off the Amazon name so easily? They may hint at their amazon brand lineage through visual references in the logo (the smiley swoosh), or in many cases, there is no hint at all other than saying “An Amazon Brand” in the description.

Happy Belly Vs. Solimo – What is the difference?

Happy Belly and Solimo both compete within the same category and items, and there is no overt Amazon reference, let alone cue to what type of quality they represent.

Brands can’t be distinguished from one another without a little more language – visual, written and structural language could all work harder to make the brands clearer.

PERRY SEELERT CO-FOUNDER EMERGE

Because you are such a behemoth, Amazon, I know that you have been challenged legally in many regards. Sometimes you have been accused of being too fast-a-follower in fashion, home goods and furniture, where it is easy to imitate. You have also been challenged by the size and weaponization of your own brands, some saying it is unfair you have this much influence. Maybe this is the reason for all these scattered Elements, Essentials and Basics sub-brands.

But, Amazon, I will end with the same refrain and paragraph I did 8 years ago when I wrote you lovingly the first time.

Amazon, I know you are better than this. I love you, and always will. You could dominate the world of own brands, just like you dominate everything else. But until I see a coherent consumer-facing strategy for doing it, I guess all I can be is a doubter. Please prove me wrong in the future, as I will be waiting.

With great admiration, Perry

Perry Seelert

A retail branding and marketing expert, with a passion for challenging conventional strategy and truths. Perry is the Strategic Partner and Co-founder of Emerge, a strategic marketing consultancy dedicated to helping Retailers, Manufacturers and Services grow exponentially and differentiate with purpose.

DISCOUNTERS DISRUPTED:

How Aldi, Lidl, and Their Peers Are Redefining Value in Global Grocery Retail

Discount retailers were once easy to define: minimal product selection, low-cost operations, and a laser focus on price. Their role in the grocery sector was to offer basic goods at the lowest possible price point, sacrificing variety, service, and—at times— perceived quality. Today, that picture has dramatically changed.

Discounters like Aldi and Lidl are no longer niche players. They’ve grown into global retail powerhouses, expanding their reach, upgrading their stores, investing in sustainability, and competing head-on with traditional supermarkets not only on price, but also on quality, experience, and innovation.

The Rise and Reinvention of the Discounter Model

Discounters now account for 23% of the European grocery market, and are the leading format in countries like Germany, Denmark, Norway, Poland, and Spain. By 2032, they are expected to lead in 9 out of 21 European markets. Their expansion is driven not just by price, but by a reinvention of what it means to be a discounter.

Where early discount stores were sparse and utilitarian, modern discounters offer wider assortments, brighter and more welcoming store environments, and even branded products— blurring the lines between discount and traditional retail. These shifts are reshaping consumer perceptions and buying habits.

Retailers can also respond rapidly to market shifts, testing new products directly in-store with minimal risk. A failed private label launch exits quietly; a hit can redefine an entire category.

Aldi and Lidl: Global Forces

At the forefront are Aldi (North and South) and Lidl—now the top two retailers in Europe. Their growth isn’t limited to Europe. Aldi has made significant inroads in Australia, the U.S., and China, while Lidl continues its expansion across North America. Between 2022 and 2027, the global discounter channel is forecast to grow at 5.1% CAGR, outpacing traditional supermarkets at 3.2%.

Their success hinges on a core formula: a curated private label offering that rivals national brands on quality, enhanced by rotating “special buys” that create urgency and excitement. This model delivers simplicity, efficiency, and clear value to the customer.

Disrupting the Big Players

Nowhere is the discounter impact more evident than in the UK. Aldi and Lidl’s combined market share has surged from 6.7% in 2013 to 17.8% in 2023. During the same period, the combined share of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, and Morrisons dropped from 75.3% to 64.2%.

Retail giants have responded with defensive strategies like “Aldi Price Match” campaigns—used by Tesco and Sainsbury’s—and the “Aldi-Lidl Price Match” initiative introduced by Asda and Morrisons in 2024. Yet, discounters continue to capture more volume and customer loyalty. The shift isn't limited to the UK. Regional discounter chains such as Netto, Penny, Biedronka, REMA 1000, and Dia are also gaining momentum across Europe, applying localized versions of the model.

Reinventing the In-Store Experience

To sustain growth, especially in saturated markets like Germany and Austria, discounters overhauled their stores in the early 2010s. New stores expanded in size—from around 650m² to over 1,000m²— and underwent visual and functional upgrades.

Glass-fronted facades, wider aisles, improved lighting, and fresh bakery sections made stores more inviting. Additional parking, better customer flow, and natural materials added to the appeal. These changes helped modernize the discounter image and attract a broader demographic— without abandoning operational efficiency.

ESG Becomes a Competitive Advantage

Once late to the sustainability conversation, discounters now lead in many ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives. Dedicated teams at Aldi, Lidl, and others are driving corporate responsibility across packaging, energy use, sourcing, and waste reduction.

In the UK, Aldi has committed to reducing plastic packaging by 50% by 2025 and halving food waste by 2030. Penny (Germany) has aligned with the Science-Based Targets initiative to reduce carbon emissions.

In-store, discounters are testing innovations like refill stations (Aldi UK and France), closed-door refrigeration, and reduced packaging volumes. Even small changes—such as shrinking toilet roll cores— translate into measurable logistics and sustainability gains.

Discounters have also launched eco-conscious product ranges. Aldi South’s “Nur-Nur Natur” organic line and Lidl’s expanding “Vemondo” plant-based range reflect growing demand for ethical and health-conscious choices. In the Netherlands, Lidl has gone further by actively replacing meat with plantbased options in ready meals.

From an infrastructure perspective, Lidl Netherlands opened “Lidl Zero” in 2019—a CO2-neutral store that produces more energy than it consumes via solar panels and heat storage systems. Most new stores in the region are following this model. Goloso blend local sourcing, PDO certifications, and storytelling into compelling brand experiences.

Quality Is Non-Negotiable

One of the most significant shifts in the discounter strategy is their deep commitment to product quality. Since most of their offering is private label, product performance directly impacts brand credibility.

Discounter buying teams benchmark rigorously—against both national brands and topperforming private labels—to set high product specifications. Certifications such as MSC (seafood), UTZ (cocoa), and Rainforest Alliance (coffee) are common sourcing standards.

Suppliers undergo strict audits, often needing BRC AA or GFSI certification. Many discounters have invested in in-house quality assurance teams, making product testing and traceability a core operational function.

Product awards are also a key trust-builder. Recognition from consumer bodies like Which? (UK), Stiftung Warentest (Germany) and 60 Millions de Consommateurs (France) are prominently used in marketing. Conversely, a poor result can lead to immediate supplier review or delisting.

Discounters aren’t just matching expectations—they’re often exceeding them. In some cases, product specs are designed to outperform both branded and private label competitors to surprise and retain customers.

The Road Ahead

Today’s discounters are defined not just by low prices, but by smart efficiency, sustainable practices, and product credibility. They’ve set a new retail benchmark—one that traditional grocers are now scrambling to meet.

As discounters expand further and deepen their value proposition, the global grocery landscape will continue to shift. The formula is no longer about compromise—it’s about offering consumers more for less, without sacrificing the things that matter.

Retailers looking to stay competitive will need to learn from discounters’ agility, their clarity of focus, and their ability to adapt to changing consumer values—fast.

Order Book Here: WWW.IPLC-EUROPE.COM

Koen De Jong

Koen has extensive management experience in the private label manufacturing industry in Germany, France, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. He has been involved in numerous M&A transactions in the Benelux. His private label strategy and business planning involvement includes company analysis and benchmarking, board consulting and the participation in supervisory boards. He speaks fluent English, German, French and Dutch (mother tongue).

REDEFINING THE GROCERY SECTOR:

How Disruption and Innovation are Fueling Private Brand Growth

Disruption and innovation are reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace, and the grocery sector is no exception. Understanding this dynamic is key for private brand executives and grocery leaders to stay competitive and unlock new growth opportunities.

Disruption is defined as both a disturbance to the status quo and a radical force of change. It creates pathways for innovation that redefines industries. Strategically leveraging disruption can help businesses meet evolving customer expectations, redefine brand perception, and drive long-term growth.

But how can brands harness this force, and what trends are at the forefront of innovation today? This guide breaks it all down.

Examples of Disruption Sparking Results

WALMART

Walmart launched its Bettergoods line in April 2024, delivering “quality, trend-forward, and chef-inspired food.” The range features over 130 products (as of January 2025), most priced under $5, offering a value conscious yet premium feel. Alongside Target’s Dealworthy, Bettergoods has become one of the fastestgrowing private brands in the U.S.

Trends Driving Disruption and Innovation

Today’s grocery landscape is shaped by several key needs that are driving consumer behavior. Here’s a closer look at the major trends shaping the future of private brand innovation.

1. FOOD DISCOVERY

MOTIVATION:

People find genuine joy in discovering new foods, flavors, and culinary experiences. They love being the first to try something—and share it.

KEY TRENDS

• Multicultural Flavors: Uncommon international flavors like Korean gochujang, sambal, yuzu, and calamansi continue to gain traction.

• Fusion Foods: Unexpected combinations like spicy + crunchy (think chili crunch sauces) or sweet + spicy (hot honey, mango habanero) are winning over adventurous eaters.

• Trending Ingredients: Flavors like spicy heat, florals (lavender, elder flower), and sour notes (fermented foods) appear across multiple categories.

• Nostalgia with a Twist: Rebooted classics, like caloriereduced cream soda or dark chocolate- covered peanut butter, blend familiarity with novelty.

2. WELLNESS

MOTIVATION:

For many, food is medicine— essential for a healthier life. Specific health benefits and lifestyle choices are top priorities.

KEY TRENDS

• Gut Health: Products like kombucha gummies and prebiotic sodas are leading the charge.

• Brain Boosters: Functional foods (e.g., mushroom teas, omega-3 granolas) help support memory and focus.

• Plant-Based Innovation: From mung bean eggs to kelp-based fish sticks, plantbased foods keep expanding.

• Hydration+: Functional beverages with electrolytes or vitamins are meeting new hydration needs.

3. SUSTAINABILITY

MOTIVATION :

Consumers increasingly value choices that reduce their environmental footprint.

KEY TRENDS

• Regenerative Agriculture: Foods grown using sustainable practices, such as grass-fed proteins or regenerative grains.

• Upcycled Ingredients: Products made from surplus food (e.g., distilling rejected produce into spirits).

• Sustainable Packaging: Innovations like compostable bottles or rPET packaging are reshaping sustainability conversations.

4. CONVENIENCE

MOTIVATION:

Busy consumers demand easy and efficient solutions that help them save time without sacrificing nutrition or quality.

KEY TRENDS

• On-the-Go Protein: Portable, protein-rich snacks like prepared breakfast sandwiches and high-protein beverages are thriving.

• Meal Replacements: Items that replace traditional meals are growing in popularity among busy and nutrition-conscious individuals.

5. AFFORDABILITY

MOTIVATION:

Consumers are increasingly driven by the desire to stretch their grocery budget without compromise.

KEY TRENDS

• Dedicated Discount Brands: Private brands focused on high-quality food at accessible price points.

• Creative Sourcing: Using imperfect produce or innovating with smaller portions to keep costs low.

REBECCA HAMILTON CEO FISH AGENCY

Create Your Own Disruptive Brand

Disruption and innovations hold the key to unlocking new growth for private brands—but only with the right strategy in place. By identifying key consumer needs, prioritizing trend-driven innovation, and combining operational excellence with data-backed decision-making, your brand can lead the charge in shaping the future of grocery.

Looking for guidance in creating a disruptive private brand? Our tried and tested systematic approach and experience can help you build brands and products that reimagine customer experiences and stand out in the market.

CONTACT US therealfish.agency/contact

Rebecca Hamilton

Rebecca is the CEO of award-winning Fish Agency and sister agency Whitespace Brands Inc. With over 30 years of experience, she has established herself as one of North America’s leaders in the fields of strategic branding, retail design, and communications for clients in the retail sector. Under Rebecca’s oversight, the Fish Agency brings brands to life at retail and has consistently delivered high ROI-generating retail experiences for its clients. She mentors and leads highly experienced and integrated teams that provide store design, package design for CPG and private brands, digital/ social initiatives, “phygital” experiences, and advertising services.

NAVIGATING CRISES IN MANUFACTURING PARTNERSHIPS

In my first open letter this spring, I outlined the foundations of valuable manufacturing partnerships. I promised to return with a second letter focused on what it truly looks like to lead through crisis together, and here we are.

What follows isn’t theory or sentiment. It’s a call to maturity. A challenge to those of us, on both sides of the relationship, who want more than transactional partnerships. Because the truth is: every real partnership is tested. And how we show up during the hard seasons says more than anything we do during the good ones.

Building Resilience into the Relationship

The strongest partnerships aren’t defined by how well we collaborate when things go according to plan. They’re revealed when the plan goes off track.

Whether it’s a pandemic, a major tariff shift, raw material shortages, weather-related disasters, or labor unrest, crises are not outliers in this industry. They are part of the rhythm of business. What has changed is how little time we now have to respond. And yet, we still see partners caught flat-footed.

That’s why contingency planning cannot be optional, it must be part of the relationship from the outset, not as a back-page appendix, but as a standing topic in our early and ongoing conversations.

Effective contingency planning includes clarity on what to do when something goes wrong, not just within your own organization, but across the partnership. How will we communicate? Who needs to be informed, and when? Which SKUs take priority? What service levels can flex under pressure, and what must hold?

Emergency response, by contrast, is what happens when those plans are activated. And if we haven’t planned together, we will absolutely respond in misalignment. This means we risk adding confusion to an already stressful situation and missing the opportunity to deliver when it matters most.

The Power of Joint Planning and Communication

Too often, emergency response plans are developed in isolation. Manufacturers plan inside their four walls. Retailers and brand owners do the same. And then we’re surprised when nothing lines up. That’s a risk we can no longer afford to take. Instead, we must establish clear, joint plans, ones that account for both organizations’ realities and capacity to respond. This requires leadershiplevel commitment. It also demands shared visibility, proactive discussion, and enough humility to ask, “What do you need from us if something goes wrong?”

If that sounds like extra work, it is. But it is the right work. It reduces stress in the moment, accelerates coordinated action, and allows us to protect supply continuity, preserve trust, and serve consumers well.the strongest partnerships aren’t tested when things are easy. They’re proven when things get hard.

JILL DEARING FOUNDER & CEO DEARING & COMPANY

Transparency and the Courage to Say the Hard Thing

When something breaks, and something always does, the strongest partners do not disappear. They don’t wait to be chased down. They communicate early, clearly, and directly.

They acknowledge issues, explain the impact, and offer actionable solutions. They do not spin. They do not defer. And they absolutely do not bury the critical facts that need to be addressed.

Transparency in crisis builds longterm equity in the relationship. It enables faster, better decisions. And it keeps teams aligned and focused when everything around them is moving fast.

Does it require courage? Yes. But the opposite—silence, delay, or spin—costs far more.

Partnership Isn’t Suspended During Crisis—It’s Proven

The most reliable partners I’ve worked with didn’t just weather tough seasons, they led through them. They brought in crossfunctional support. They reforecasted in real time. They made decisions based on facts and partnership, not panic or politics. They leaned in. And because of that, we got through the worst of it together and better for it. When manufacturers run toward the problem, not away from it, they don’t just demonstrate operational strength. They demonstrate partnership strength. And that is what matters most.

Looking Ahead

In the third and final letter of this series, we’ll look toward the future; how manufacturing partnerships must evolve to meet the demands of what’s next. Because the partnerships we build today—through contingency planning, mutual accountability, and executive-level collaboration—are what will determine our readiness for tomorrow.

Until then, let’s lead the way forward with clarity, commitment, and the kind of strategic trust that stands the test of time.

With respect,

Jill Dearing

Jill Dearing

Jill Dearing, founder & CEO of Dearing & Company, leverages her extensive experience in the grocery, food, and private brand industries to drive innovative solutions and strategic transformations. She can be reached via email at jdearing@dearingco.com or visit www.dearingco.com.

DEMAND FOR PRIVATE LABELS IN FRANCE REMAINS HIGH AS INFLATION RISES

The demand for private labels in France is steadily increasing these days, as the persistently high inflation rate in the country compels local consumers to cut costs on branded products by opting for better value private labels.

While in recent months the level of inflation in France has significantly slowed, since 2022 prices for most of consumer goods, including food products, in the country have grown by 40%-50%. That has contributed to a sharp growth of the segment of private labels in France.

According to the French magazine "60 Million Consumers", privatelabel brands are now approaching 40% of the market share in mass retail (compared to 32.7% in 2019). At the same time, local retailers are constantly seeking to improve consumer perceptions of these brands, which is also due to high profits, associated with retail brands.

In fact, the history of French private labels dates back to the mid-1970s when the first private label range was launched by the leading local player - Carrefour. A sharp growth in the sector began at the beginning of the 1990s. Since that time, most of the leading local retailers have launched their own lines of private labels.

According to the France’s LSA, most leading local players continue to set ambitious goals for further increasing the share of private labels in their ranges over the next several years. The target is 40%, which will allow France to enter the list of EU states with a high level of private labels.

For example, earlier plans were announced by Carrefour, which, together with another major French retailer, Intermarché, aims to increase these figures to 40% of their turnover by 2026.

Private Labels are now approaching 40% of the market share

As Thierry Cotillard, President of the Mousquetaires Group—parent company of Intermarché—earlier mentioned, by 2026 the company aims to increase its private label sales from 35.3% to 40% of its total range. He specifically highlighted hopes for the Pommette diapers among the entire lineup. To reach this goal, the Group will boost the utilization of its 56 factories. Additionally, it expects an increase of 15 to 20% in volume from acquiring 294 Casino stores and fully integrating their private labels into the company’s structure, which will also involve rebranding.

In addition to Carrefour and Intermarche, Dominique Schelcher, president of Coopérative U, another leading French retailer - also said about the plans of the company for the more active development of its own range. "We must continue to overhaul our offering, which involves the development of our private label products. The consumer must have a choice."

At U, private label products have gained 3% in volume in two years, to 32.7%, which is, however, lower than that of the main rivals - Carrefour and E. Leclerc.

The latter, French retailers' cooperative and hypermarket chain, remains number one in market in the French market these days. The company’s annual revenue from its own brands amounted to about €10 billion during the period of 2023-2024.

Despite the current bright prospects for growth of the French private label sector, some local analysts expect that the slowdown of inflation in France will result in the decline of the share of private labels in the local market.

EUGENE GERDEN

FREELANCE JOURNALIST

In addition, according to some independent analysts, the competition with branded products will continue to intensify. This has been earlier confirmed by Emily Mayer, Circana's Director of Business Insights, according to her, the goal of reaching 40% is realistic for the French private labels’ sector, but only if private labels offer real advantages over national brands for French customers.

Local retailers also prepare for a tougher competition with each other as well as with manufacturers of branded products. That will take place through the more active promotional efforts and expansion of their range, as well as the launch of more novelties in the local market.

For example, Carrefour has lowered its prices by 1% on its own brands over the past year, and also increased its marketing plan. Local players are considering similar plans.

Eugnen Gerden

is a freelance writer who writes on a wide range of international topics, from commerce to chemistry and from wine to aviation. He has contributed to many publications, including Decanter, International Aviation News, Chemistry World and The Journal of Commerce. For Decanter, he has covered several stories on wine markets and production in Russia, Georgia and Bulgaria. gerden.eug@gmail.com

PRIVATE LABEL MIDDLE EAST RETURNS AS THE ULTIMATE LAUNCHPAD FOR SOURCING AND SCALING BRANDS

15 – 17 SEPTEMBER 2025 DUBAI, UAE

Private Label Middle East is back and bigger than ever. From 15 to 17 September 2025, Dubai World Trade Centre will once again transform into the ultimate sourcing destination for private label and contract manufacturing across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.

The event connects retailers, brand developers, and innovators with 200+ verified manufacturers from over 50 countries, offering a powerful, cost-effective platform for launching, scaling, or refining private label strategies across food and non-food categories.

As global supply chains become more sophisticated and consumer preferences shift towards personalised and responsibly made products, Private Label Middle East 2025 stands at the crossroads of innovation, value, and agility. With a sharp focus on product accessibility

and ecological responsibility, the event will spotlight forward-thinking manufacturing solutions and white-label products that cater to an increasingly diverse customer base.

This is the region’s only dedicated platform where buyers can meet global manufacturers face-to-face and unlock customisable products enhanced with tailored branding, sustainable packaging, and flexible fulfilment options. From food and beverages to beauty, wellness, household care, baby products, stationery, and more, Private Label Middle East 2025 brings together over 600 leading private label brands and thousands of next-generation offerings under one roof.

This year’s exhibitor line-up will feature standout manufacturers from Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Jordan, India, and China, amongst others. The event is a rare opportunity to access some of the world’s most in-demand and often hard-toreach producers. Whether sourcing from established markets or discovering emerging suppliers, visitors will find a rich global network ready to deliver quality and scale.

With qualified buyers attending from more than 80 countries, Private Label Middle East consistently draws the attention of retail giants and industry leaders, including Carrefour, Lulu, Amazon, Aldi, McDonald’s, Boots Pharmacy, Marriott, Emirates Airlines, Marks & Spencer, and Hilton.

Registered visitors will also benefitfrom the region’s largest dedicated meetings programme, accessible via the official JustNetwork mobile app, allowing pre-booked appointments and personalised matchmaking before the show begins.

Private Label Middle East will take place alongside ISM Middle East, the region’s leading confectionery and snacks trade show. Together, they will welcome more than 900 global suppliers across three days.

Private Label Middle East takes place from 15 to 17 September 2025 at Dubai World Trade Centre.

www.prime-expo.com

MARCA AWARDS 2026: New Recognition for Excellence in

Private Label

14 – 15 JANUARY 2026

BOLOGNA

Marca by BolognaFiere & ADM launches awards that redefine Private Label standards, highlighting for the first time product innovation and industrial excellence across the entire supply chain within an integrated ecosystem.

Marca by BolognaFiere & ADM, the key event for the Private Label supply chain and the top gathering for industry and Retail, returns on January 14–15, 2026, at BolognaFiere with a program full of new content. One of the main features is the launch of the Marca Awards, strengthening the event’s position as a trendsetter for Private Label.

This new format celebrates, for the first time in an integrated ecosystem, both the best product innovations and the industrial excellence of manufacturing companies, recognizing the entire value chain that drives the qualitative growth and competitiveness of Private Label.

Two awards at the centre of the Marca Trend Area

As Private Label continues to establish itself as a strategic lever for modern retail, the Marca Awards broaden the sector’s future outlook by introducing a new category dedicated to packaging. This recognition highlights how packaging solutions have become crucial as product innovation and industrial quality, offering Retailers and buyers a practical tool to anticipate Private Label trends. The initiative is part of the Marca exhibition centre; an integrated

space that showcases the many sides of Private Label. It is a dynamic area where visitors can update themselves on the latest news and trends in the retail sector, with showcases of the Retail Brand Area reserved for the Large Scale Retailers of the Marca Committee by BolognaFiere & ADM. At the same time, visitors can discover the excellent products and innovations presented by industrial partners in the Marca Awards.

Two awards, focus on innovation and industrial reliability

The new format of the Marca Awards expands the scope and purpose of the awards, offering Retailers and operators a full overview of the excellence of Private Label.

By submitting a single application form, companies will have the opportunity to compete for two complementary awards, which enhance the entire value chain of the PL sector:

Best Innovation Product ( ex IPLS):

the award dedicated to the most innovative private label products, divided into five categories representing the main areas of development in the sector: Sustainability; Food well-being (including pet food); Indoor & outdoor non-food well-being; Origin, provenance, supply chain and transparency; Packaging.

Best Copacker Profile:

the award recognises industrial excellence and the reliability of manufacturing partners across nine categories covering the entire range of Private Label products: groceries, beverages, fresh

product, frozen foods, home care, personal care, pet care, other non-food products and packaging, highlighting the most qualified and innovative manufacturing partners serving modern organised distribution.

The new structure of the Marca Awards allows for the synergistic promotion of both product innovation and industrial and organisational excellence, making Private Label a driver of development for retailers at national and international level. The Marca Awards are a distinctive feature of a trade fair entirely dedicated to Private Label, confirming its status as a trendsetter in the sector: with this new initiative, the experience of the event is enriched, offering the market a unique tool for identifying product innovations and Private Label partners that contribute to defining trends in Private Label.

Through the synergy between Marca by BolognaFiere & ADM and PL Magazine, the award aims to be a concrete tool for identifying the best product innovations and the most reliable production partners. The award ceremony will be held on 14 January 2026 at the Marca Fair, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm.

For more information about how to participate, companies interested can visit the official website of Marca by BolognaFiere & ADM.

marcabybolognafiere.com

TUTTOFOOD 2026: Milan Strengthens Its Role As Europe’s Food Gateway

11-14 MAY 2026

MILANO, ITALY

After the record-breaking 2025 edition, TUTTOFOOD Milano is now ready for a new step toward becoming a truly global business platform. From May 11 to 14, 2026, the show will return to Fiera Milano, strengthening its position as the leading trade event in Southern Europe for food and beverage professionals. But the ambition of TUTTOFOOD goes far beyond the records and figures of the latest edition (4,200 exhibitors – 25% of whom coming from 70 different countries – 95,000 professional attendees and over 3,000 Top Buyers from around the world).

According to Riccardo Caravita, Food & Beverage Brand Manager at Fiere di Parma, the 2025 edition represented “a Year Zero. We inherited a show with great potential, a world-class venue, and the international appeal of Milan. By adding our expertise in top buyer recruitment and strengthening our partnership with Koelnmesse, we were able

to turn those assets into results. Our mid-term goal now is clear: to build a trade show with equal participation from Italian and international exhibitors, the go-to platform in Southern Europe for discovering tomorrow’s food trends.”

New formats for a global business community

In 2026, TUTTOFOOD will launch new initiatives designed to accelerate networking and deliver market insights to exhibitors and buyers from around the world. Morning sessions dedicated to strategic regions and or key channels will provide concise overviews of opportunities, challenges, and consumer trends, followed by informal networking moments. At the same time, selected international congresses and standalone events will be hosted inside the show, providing focused content on innovation, sustainability, and new consumption models.

“These initiatives reflect our ambition to create meaningful global connections,” Alice Andrei, Marketing Manager at Fiere di Parma, explains. “We want TUTTOFOOD to be a home not only for exhibitors and buyers, but also for high-profile events and conventions that until now stood alone. In today’s volatile markets, a trade show must help companies understand global geographies and guide their go-tomarket strategies. In fact, our event program will feature several seminars and exclusive workshops offering practical knowledge and networking opportunities.”

Private

label and consumer trends in the spotlight

Private label remains a hot topic and a key driver of global growth for many exhibitors. In the 2025 edition TUTTOFOOD, confirmed its role as a privileged stage for showcasing premium private label, sustainable packaging, and innovative store brands producers, aligning with evolving consumer expectations in Europe and beyond. Alongside Modern Retail, the Foodservice channel will also benefit from dedicated formats such as “Mixology Experience”, “Restaurant talks”, curated tastings, and the presence among the exhibitors of the most important catering and food service groups, presenting new solutions for both white and private label.

Food diplomacy: a new role for trade shows

The ambition of TUTTOFOOD goes beyond exhibition halls. By gathering institutions, trade promotion organizations, associations, and global retailers, the show aims to act as a neutral platform where business can open pathways that politics often cannot. In an age of trade disputes and geopolitical tension, food becomes a bridge – and trade shows like TUTTOFOOD are among the most effective places for dialogue and global collaboration.

www.tuttofood.it/en

Galicia Trade LLC is a Ukrainian company that has become a trusted name in the natural food and beverage industry, combining traditional values with modern production technologies. With its brands Galicia and Galicia Baby, the company has built a reputation for quality, transparency, and innovation. By focusing on natural ingredients and consumer health, Galicia Trade LLC delivers products that meet global expectations while showcasing the richness of Ukraine’s agricultural resources. Today, the company is recognized as both a reliable domestic leader and an ambitious exporter with strong international potential.

PURE PRODUCTS, PROVEN QUALITY

The company specializes in directly pressed juices, fruit purées, and baby food. Directly pressed juices preserve the natural taste, aroma, and nutritional value of fresh fruit, distinguishing them from concentrate-based alternatives. Galicia Baby, the dedicated line for infants and toddlers, is formulated in line with modern medical recommendations for first complementary feeding. Its products provide balanced nutrition, support healthy development, and are carefully tested to ensure safety and purity. This approach helps parents introduce fruits and vegetables in the first stages of a child’s diet with confidence, combining natural composition with scientifically informed benefits.

Galicia Trade sources high-quality fruits from local Ukrainian orchards, applying advanced processing technologies to ensure consistency and authenticity. Each step of production is monitored according to international safety and quality standards. Compliance with globally recognized certifications guarantees that juices, purées, and baby food are safe, natural, and fully aligned with consumer expectations for healthy, transparent products.

GLOBAL EXPORT AND PRIVATE LABEL

The company has established partnerships in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, and continues to expand into new regions. Galicia Trade offers flexible solutions for large retail chains, the HoReCa sector, and private label projects. Its advantages include natural product quality, professional logistics, modern and sustainable packaging, and the ability to adapt to the specific requirements of international clients, positioning Galicia Trade as a reliable global partner.

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

Galicia Trade LLC represents more than a producer of juices and baby food; it is a symbol of Ukraine’s commitment to high-quality, natural nutrition. Each product reflects the company’s dedication to authenticity, safety, and innovation. For importers, distributors, and consumers seeking trustworthy and premium food products, Galicia Trade LLC offers not only a taste of Ukraine but also a long-term partnership built on quality and reliability.

History of Galicia Trade LLC

Launch of the first NFC juices in glass for the premium segment on the Ukrainian market

Introduction of Tetra Pak packaging for 1L and 0.5L volumes

Juices released in portioned packaging with straws. Expansion into the international market

Expansion of product range with smoothies.

Initiation of partnership with McDonald’s Ukraine

Achievement of BRC certification with the highest grade, annually reaffirmed

Introduction of FC juices and the launch of the “Svitanok” brand

for

filling, collaboration with Gualapack

ADVERTISING INDEX I NEXT ISSUE

Certified Origins / 29

Galacia Trade LLC / 85

Global Tissue Group / 2 & 3, Back Cover

La Doria S.p.A / 31

LeBonta srl / 6 & 7

Lucart S.p.A / 11 & 33

Marca by Bolognafiere / 18 & 19

MBD (Marketing by Design) / 13

Oropan S.p.A / 5

PLMA’S US Trade Show, Chicago / 9

PLMA’S World of Private Label / 15

Seneca Foods / 25

Shanghai Hutchison Whitecat Co. Ltd / 41

Tuttofood Milano / 35

Valsa Group / 37

V Label Italia / 39

Vertex Entries / 87

Next Issues...

NOVEMBER 2025

PLMA CHICAGO

AD CLOSE: 7 October

MARCH 2026

2026 Supplier Guide

AD CLOSE: 7 February

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

EUROPE

Ms. Luisa Colombo

Global Retail Brands Via F.Baracca nr.4/9 40033 Casalecchio di Reno Bologna, ITALY luisa@globalretailmag.com

Ms. Ana Maria Jimenez Aguilar Business Development ana@globalretailmag.com

Ms. Sabine Geissler Italy / Germany Greentaste.it s.geissler@greentaste.it

Mr. Jacco van Laar Brand Ambassador jacco@globalretailmag.com

AMERICAS, ASIA, AUSTRALIA, AFRICA

Mr. Phillip Russo

Global Retail Brands magazine 240 Central Park South, Suite 9G New York, NY 10019 USA Tel. +1 917 743 6711 phillip@globalretailmag.com

www.globalretailmag.com

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