Private labels are increasingly shaping Europe's retail landscape, driving innovation, affordability, quality and consumer choice.

Christel Delberghe, Director General of EuroCommerce, discusses the key EU policy developments affecting private-label manufacturers, from sustainability and packaging to competition and supply-chain rules.

Delberghe highlights the importance of anticipating regulatory changes, preparing early and ensuring manufacturers's practical experience is heard by policymakers.

Influencers are playing a growing role in retail marketing, helping to shape private-label products, promotional campaigns and even store environments across Europe. Judith Kolenburg reports on how retailers are embedding creators more deeply into brand building and customer engagement. 

Against this backdrop of retail transformation, Pascal Kuipers examines Rabobank's forecast that private label could capture 60% of the European grocery market by 2050. 

The UK private-label market is entering an increasingly dynamic phase, shaped by fierce competition, online growth, evolving consumer behavior, and longer-term retailer partnerships. Ian Anderson of Grapevine Consultancy sees significant opportunities for agile manufacturers that can respond quickly to emerging trends.

All this and more in this exclusive interview with host Edgar Elzerman.

Join Anderson and other industry professionals at PLMA's Annual Private Label Summit, 28 - 29 October 2026 in Manchester. The event will provide valuable insights and discussions on consumer trends, UK retail, online grocery, AI, innovation and the future of private label.

From smarter product development to more adventurous snacking, innovation is reshaping consumer purchasing behaviors.

Judith Kolenburg examines AI and the next era of product innovation, including how it helps process large amounts of data and identify patterns, trends and new opportunities.

In another thought-provoking report, Hans Kraak explores innovation in the snack aisle. Demand for protein, better ingredients, international flavours and more sophisticated sharing occasions are among the areas explored.

Private label at Eroski’s serves not only as a key sales driver, but also as a reflection of the retailer’s identity, values, and customer proposition. Beatriz Santos, Commercial Director, explains how Eroski combines a strong private-label offering with customer insight, personalized promotions, local engagement, and data-driven decision-making. She also outlines how close supplier partnerships and advanced analytics help shape the retailer’s approach, while pointing to emerging opportunities in pet care, premium indulgence, and innovation-led product development. 

With a record number of 3,300 exhibitors, representing more than 80 countries, the World of Private Label International Trade Show in Amsterdam confirms its position as a key meeting place for the global private label industry.

Our reporters explored the Show floor to find out what's new and exciting in private label:
Judith Kolenburg tours the renewed "World of Ideas" inspiration hub and the retail trends shaping supermarket shelves, from functional beverages and indulgent snacks to beauty and wellness products.

Edgar Elzerman and Pascal Kuipers scout innovative food and non-food concepts across the show floor.
Plus, Trade Show Director Jan van Lier reflects on the event's continued growth.

Europe’s organic market is gaining momentum as retailers expand assortments and consumers prioritize health, sustainability, and plant-based products. Private label is emerging as a key growth driver, creating new opportunities for suppliers. Dennis Hvam, International Market Director at Organic Denmark, explains how Denmark’s organic model supports innovation, affordability, and retailer partnerships, while encouraging suppliers to focus on differentiation and long-term growth.

PLMA’s 2026 International Salute to Excellence Award nominees put the spotlight on bold innovation across food and non-food. Sustainability is now a given, while convenience, health, and premium quality take centre stage. Traditional products have been reimagined with a modern twist. Other trends include global influences balanced by local authenticity. Judith Kolenburg reports on the food and non-food submissions. Meanwhile, Hans Kraak highlights a shift toward value as wine consumers choose higher-quality, more distinctive options.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping European grocery retail, driving sharper forecasting, leaner operations, and more data-driven decision-making across the value chain. 

Judith Kolenburg highlights how AI improves demand planning, reduces waste, and optimises logistics, while increasing the need for stronger data alignment. 

Pascal Kuipers, meanwhile, describes a more consumer-facing shift: the rise of autonomous AI agents that compare deals and manage purchases. Yet, as convenience increases, so too does the question of trust, particularly around data use and security. 

Clear, recognizable labels help build consumer trust, according to a food label study by Simon-Kucher, a global strategy consultancy with offices in more than 30 countries. The study highlights the growing influence of food labels, claims, and certifications on consumer purchasing decisions. Alexander Bilsing, partner at the firm, shares insights from the research. Bilsing explains how health-driven claims - particularly high-protein - are emerging as key drivers of interest and differentiation in food products.