Ahead of this year’s PLMA World of Private Label, ESM caught up with Peggy Davies, PLMA president, to discuss what attendees can look forward to.
ESM: Peggy, thanks for talking to us. What are you looking forward to most about PLMA’s 2024 World of Private Label trade show?
Peggy Davies: I’m especially looking forward to the diverse array of exhibitors and retail attendees, all driven by the shared goal of growing their businesses. It’s always inspiring to witness the genuine enthusiasm people have for meeting each other and experiencing products in person.
I have high expectations that PLMA’s 2024 World of Private Label will serve as a dynamic platform for networking, sourcing, learning, and connecting with key industry stakeholders.
How are you seeking to make this show bigger and better than previous editions?
Our event is like a one-stop shop for the private-label industry. We combine efficient business practices with top-notch industry insights, showcasing the latest trends, new-product developments, and innovations. It’s the go-to event for anyone looking to stay ahead in the private-label game.
The show always features a strong international element, with a number of new national and regional pavilions. Why is this international aspect important, in your eyes?
Private label is a business model that goes hand in hand with international cooperation, especially on a continent as diverse as Europe. For manufacturers that only do private label – as well as for those that have well-known brands in their home market, but also supply private-label products to retailers abroad – reaffirming established international contacts and making new ones is what keeps their businesses running.
Similarly, most retailers aiming to maintain and expand their private-label ranges rely on both domestic and international suppliers, in terms of product variety and innovation, as well as supply chain reliability. These are some of the key factors for the year-over-year growth in international participation among exhibitors and visitors at the show.
The Idea Supermarket is always a fascinating element of the show. What trends or innovations that were showcased at the Idea Supermarket in recent years have become part of the mainstream?
In 2005, we introduced the Idea Supermarket area to showcase innovation, new-product development [NPD] and emerging trends in private label – all conveniently located in one location. Over the years, it has evolved into one of our most popular attractions.
The focus on health, convenience and sustainability has remained consistent, mirroring ongoing consumer trends. Each year, both manufacturers and retailers strive to meet consumer demands by introducing new products that align with these trends. The Idea Supermarket area serves as a reflection of their dedication to innovation and meeting consumer needs.
Last year saw inflation hit 30- or 40-year highs in many markets – what effect did this have on own-brand sales?
Private label was growing steadily prior to recent economic fluctuations. Own-brands undoubtedly thrive when consumers prioritise value, which is at the core of the industry – delivering quality products at an affordable price. Historical economic downturns have shown that once consumers appreciate the quality of private-label products, they tend to favour them.
I believe that as retailers continue to invest in innovation and assortment in their private-label portfolios, consumers will include the retailer’s brand in their shopping baskets.
What private-label categories in particular have been able to ‘capture the zeitgeist’ in the eyes of consumers in the past year, do you think?
In the past year, private-label categories that have been popular with consumers have included organic and sustainable products, plant-based alternatives, and products catering to health-and-wellness trends. These align with evolving consumer preferences for healthier and more environmentally conscious options.
Additionally, private-label offerings in convenience foods, home essentials, and affordable premium products have also gained traction, as consumers prioritise convenience and value without compromising on quality.
In summary, why do you consider PLMA’s World of Private Label such an unmissable event for retailers?
It’s the industry’s most time-efficient show, with the largest number and variety of exhibitors and products. Retailers visiting the World of Private Label are on a treasure hunt to feel, touch, smell and taste private-label products from more than 2,900 exhibitors, including some 950 new ones, with tens of thousands of hidden gems to uncover.
For more information about PLMA’s World of Private Label trade show, which takes place at RAI Amsterdam on 28 and 29 May, visit www.plmainternational.com. This article first appeared in ESM's May/June 2024 edition.
