The Private Label Push in Europe vs. U.S.

While European private label manufacturers and retailers operate substantially differently than their US counterparts, some parallels can be made between the two markets.

Jan-Benedict Steenkamp, author and marketing professor at European and American universities, discusses US Walmart's concept and sees opportunities for highly sophisticated European manufacturers in the US market.

Trends Spotted at PLMA's World of Private Label Trade Show

More than 31.000 industry professionals gathered to connect, source and grow at PLMA’s 2024 World of Private Label International Trade Show in Amsterdam, 28-29 May.

Join the PLMALive.eu news team for direct-from-the-show-floor reports, including:

- Judith Kolenburg discovering new trends and innovation displayed in the Idea Supermarket;
- Edgar Elzerman walking the trade show floor in search of unique foods and beverages;
- Pascal Kuipers browsing some of the best novelties in the nonfood aisles.

Improving Supply Chain Sustainability

FMCG retailers and brands that map and collect data on their supply chain can use these insights to create change in environmental and social conditions, says Leontien Hasselman-Plugge, CEO of ImpactBuying Group.

Hasselman-Plugge discusses how ImpactBuying helps retailers and manufacturers understand their supply chains, identify risks and make a positive impact on buying.

A Preview of the Salute to Excellence Awards

New and improved plant-based products are some of the trends that stand out among the entries for the 2024 International PLMA Salute to Excellence Awards. 

Judith Kolenburg reports on these and other products evaluated by judges. In the wine category, indigenous grape varieties like Albariño and Verdelho are prominent among the submissions. This demonstrates that retailers are catering to younger, more adventurous generations. 

This year’s winners will be announced and displayed at PLMA’s World of Private Label International Trade Show, 28 and 29 May.

Also, Pascal Kuipers discusses rising cocoa prices. He outlines what’s new in sustainable options, including the launch of cocoa-free chocolate at Rewe, WinWin and Nukoko.

Top Reasons to Invest in a Digital Strategy

The growth of private label and digital marketing brings new challenges as well as new strategic opportunities.  

Pedro Mendonça da Silva, Adjunct Professor at Porto’s Accounting and Business School in Portugal (ISCAP), shares the results of his recent study on whether private label manufacturers should invest in digital strategies. 

Mendonça da Silva highlights the vital role of digital technologies across the value chain, as well as the importance of forming alliances in private label supply with strategic partners for mutual benefit. 

The Rise of Self-Care Solutions at Retail

The aging population along with the rise in chronic disease and other factors have led to more demand for doctor, hospital and other healthcare services. What does this mean for retailers? Judith Kolenburg reports on the opportunity for retailers to leverage their store brands to strengthen their position in the healthcare market. Meanwhile, while consumers want to life healthier lifestyles, convenience and taste make ultra-processed foods appealing. Hans Kraak discusses the widespread consumer confusion surrounding the definition of ultra-processed and which foods fit into this category.

Growth Drivers in the European Retail Market

The ability for businesses to change direction and pivot their strategies when necessary is critical in today's retail industry.

Stephen Wynne-Jones, Editor at ESM - the European Supermarket Magazine - explains why flexibility is essential for business success.

Wynne-Jones also addresses other recurring topics at the business table, including AI and sustainability.

Private Label Sales Hit New Record in 2023

Private label accounted for 54% of the total grocery market growth in 2023, with sales reaching €340 billion in Europe, an all-time record. Judith Kolenburg shares the highlights of NielsenIQ's latest data compiled in PLMA's International Private Label Yearbook.

Meanwhile, one category of the grocery sector — organics — is under pressure. Pascal Kuipers explains how farmers are finding themselves caught between strict European environmental legislation and shoppers' tight budgets.

Best Practices in Procurement for 2024

Procurement is essential in many aspects other than just cutting costs. Procurement teams are drivers of innovation and growth for retailers because they are meeting with suppliers and developing valuable relationships, says Marijn Overvest, Founder of Procurement Tactics.

In an interview with host Edgar Elzerman, Overvest explains the intricacies of strategic leadership in procurement and the benefits for both retailers and suppliers. AI and sustainability are at the forefront of procurement
trends this year.

Executive Education programme accessible from wherever you are

PLMA is making its annual Executive Education programme available for everyone, wherever they are, by organizing it online this year. On the mornings of 28 and 29 February, there will be teaching sessions, panel discussions, interactive lectures on current topics that concern the private label industry.

The curriculum covers retail trends, product and packaging innovation, successful private label strategies in today’s challenging market, neuro marketing and best practices in the retailer-supplier relationship.