NEWARK, DE & WASHINGTON, DC - Calendars are eagerly marked for May 1–2 as our industry prepares to hit Phoenix, Arizona, for the International Fresh Produce Association’s (IFPA) annual Retail Conference. Registration is now open for the insightful conference and exciting golf tournament.

“We’ve designed this year’s conference to maximize networking with dozens of buyers and to address the most important issues facing the retail supply chain today,” said IFPA Vice President Joe Watson. “Understanding the pushes and pulls companies face every day helps leaders hone their strategies to drive sales throughout the supply chain, and, ultimately, to the consumer. We’re in a new location and a bit earlier in the year. The Retail Conference immediately follows The Consumer Connection Conference in the same hotel. We wanted to make this convenient for everyone who wants to attend both events.”

Taking place at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass in Phoenix, the anticipated industry event tees off with a golf tournament on May 1, before welcoming attendees to take a deep dive into the state of the retail market. This includes discussions regarding micro-targeted sales data, artificial intelligence, and the USDA’s new organics rules. Attendees will also have ample networking time to build connections with other industry professionals.

Retailers and buyers already registered to attend include Walmart, Sprouts Farmers Market, Target, Albertsons, Harris Teeter, Whole Foods Market, Dollar General, Wakefern Food Corp., Sobeys, Costco, 7-11, Associated Wholesale Grocers, Giant Food, Hannaford, Gelson’s Markets, and more.

“In this competitive marketplace, it’s important for our industry to take a couple of days to re-ground themselves in the issues that are driving challenges and opportunities,” said Grocery Outlet Director of Produce Daniel Bell. “When you do that in a venue that brings the full supply chain together, you maximize the value for the time and resources spent.”

The golf tournament will be at the Devil’s Claw course at the Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass in Chandler, Arizona. Golf registration is open only to conference attendees. All golf awards will be presented at the Welcome Reception later that evening.

As a press release explained, positioning the Retail Conference right after The Consumer Connection Conference (April 29–May 1) in the same hotel maximizes industry marketers’ time and travel investment; the upcoming Consumer Connection Conference features insights from experts in consumer trends and behavior. It also offers connections with direct-to-consumer communicators like retail dietitians, foodservice tastemakers, and nutrition, lifestyle, and ag communicators who influence shopper choices.

Both events have limited attendance to maintain a more intimate and productive experience. Secure your registration now, as they are expected to sell out quickly!

To register and learn more about the event, click here. And for more updates like this one, leave a tab open to ANUK.