As changes in American lifestyle are increasingly driving consumers to the supermarket perimeter, PLMA announced it will turn a spotlight on store brands in the deli, dairy and bakery at its 2015 Private Label Trade Show to be held Nov. 15-17 at Chicago’s Rosemont Convention Center.

“Consumers are making it clear they want convenience and speed in meal preparation. As a result, retailers are expanding the offerings available in fresh food departments such as their deli sections, their dairy cases and in-store bakeries,” explained PLMA President Brian Sharoff. “This is creating new and exciting opportunities for retailers’ store brands to respond to shoppers’ interest in foods that are convenient, fresh, and healthier.”

By spotlighting these three categories, the show will encourage retailers to expand their offerings and become more innovative in assortment and product concepts. PLMA will feature a lobby display, highlighting what retailers are doing. There will also be a special seminar on marketing and merchandising. In addition, PLMA will unveil the findings of a new consumer study regarding shopping attitudes and buying behavior.

Growth in the deli, dairy and bakery has been dramatic. Deli departments have seen a proliferation of chilled and ready-to-serve entrees, grab & go meal items, snacks, salads and side dishes. The dairy section meanwhile has made room for more flavored milk and milk alternatives, sport and nutrition drinks, yogurts, cheese and other specialty items. The importance of supermarket bakeries continues to rise, as well.

“Deli, dairy and bakery are among the fastest growing sections at the annual PLMA Private Label Trade Show,” added Sharoff. “In all, the show will present more than 2,700 exhibit booths. Nearly 5,000 visitors are expected to attend, including buyers and executives from the leading U.S. supermarkets, drug chains, mass merchandisers, wholesale clubs, convenience and specialty retailers, in addition to wholesalers, brokers, importers and others.”

Over the years, the importance of the PLMA show has grown as private label sales continue to outpace the national brands. According the latest industry sales data compiled by The Nielsen Company, private label accounts for one out of every five dollars in supermarket sales and unit market share exceeds 23%. Total private label sales in the United States last year surpassed $115 billion.

For information on attending or exhibiting at PLMA's 2015 Private Label Trade Show, contact PLMA (212) 972-3131 or email [email protected].