Pre-Show Seminars and Workshops

Art Frickus, Founder/Shopper Behaviour Specialist, Conspicuous

The Private Label industry is growing, and the real opportunity now lies in strategic relevance. In this workshop, Art Frickus will be challenging the traditional "Inside-Out" approach. While tenders and negotiations are a reality, they shouldn't be the strategy. True acceleration happens when we stop being "product-driven". A mindset shift that is required from both retailers and suppliers. Innovation, premiumisation and sustainability are vital, but they are the result of a good strategy, not the starting point. Art will be be sharing a conceptual framework on how this "Outside-In" perspective leads to: sharper category plans and more strategic retailer conversations.

Karen Green, Retail and FMCG Expert, Author, Buyerology

This presentation explores the dynamics between retailers and private label suppliers by building a deeper understanding of each other’s worlds - the pressures, priorities, and realities that shape decision-making on both sides of the buying table. It highlights the art of long-term negotiation, showing how both parties can move beyond transactional deals to create sustainable, mutually beneficial partnerships. Finally, it offers practical guidance for PLMA's Trade Show, focusing on how to initiate meaningful conversations and turn trade show meetings into lasting, value-driven relationships.

Beatriz Santos, Commercial Director, Eroski

This presentation explores Eroski’s pioneering journey in Private Label development and how it has helped shape a distinctive, customer-centric vision. It examines the evolving role of customer insight in redefining Private Label strategy, alongside the subtle but powerful forces reshaping consumption and future product expectations. Finally, it highlights how AI-driven product intelligence is accelerating the next phase in the design and evolution of Eroski’s Private Label offering.

Simon Wintels, Partner, McKinsey’s & Company

For the European grocery sector, 2025 was a year of stabilization. Compared to 2024, shoppers’ spending patterns remained largely unchanged, while grocers continued to contend with cost pressure. In early 2026, 64 percent of grocery CEOs anticipate that market conditions will become better or remain similar compared to 2025. Nevertheless, the environment is still challenging. Margin pressure remains the primary concern, competition stays intense, and growth prospects continue to look muted in the medium term. Simon Wintels will present the report findings including the trends and AI opportunities characterizing the European grocery retail market in 2026.

Erick Smet, Head of AI Innovation, TrendWatching

Erick Smet gives an introduction to how TrendWatching identifies and defines emerging trends. He presents three key trends, illustrated with examples from the World of Private Label show floor, including the International Salute to Excellence Awards, Retail Trends, and New Product Expo. The session will also focus on AI and its growing role in shaping, detecting, and accelerating trend development. Participants will receive a practical assignment to apply during their trade show visit, encouraging them to observe exhibited products with a trend-focused mindset.