INTERNATIONAL SUPERMARKET NEWS CONFERENCE
Theme: Selling to Supermarkets – Strategy, Systems & Success
CONFERENCE INTRODUCTION
The International Supermarket News Conference brings together suppliers, retailers, logistics experts, category managers, and former supermarket executives to explore one central question:
How do you successfully sell to supermarkets — and stay there?
In today’s competitive retail environment, getting listed is only the beginning. Suppliers must understand logistics systems, certifications, warehouse structures, category management, merchandising strategy, buyer communication, payment processes, and retail technology such as RFID.
This conference provides practical, insider knowledge from decision-makers and ex-supermarket executives who understand what retailers expect — and how suppliers can build long-term, profitable partnerships.
Whether you are a food producer, brand owner, exporter, distributor, or service provider, this event delivers actionable insights to help you enter, scale, and succeed in supermarket retail.
CONFERENCE PROGRAM
🟢 SESSION 1: Understanding the Supermarket Ecosystem
How supermarkets are structured (HQ vs regional buying)
Centralized vs decentralized buying systems
The role of category managers
Private label vs branded products
Margin expectations and retail pricing models
🟢 SESSION 2: Selling to Supermarkets – Getting Listed
How to approach supermarket buyers
Preparing your product pitch
Understanding buyer KPIs
Trade terms & listing fees
Negotiating contracts successfully
Common mistakes suppliers make
🟢 SESSION 3: Certification & Compliance
Required certifications (BRC, IFS, HACCP, ISO, GlobalG.A.P.)
Retailer-specific standards
Traceability requirements
Sustainability and ESG expectations
Food safety audits
Export documentation requirements
🟢 SESSION 4: Logistics & Supply Chain
Retail supply chain structure
Central warehouse vs direct-to-store delivery
Distribution center (DC) operations
On-time delivery performance metrics (OTIF)
Pallet configuration standards
Temperature control & cold chain management
Managing returns and shrinkage
🟢 SESSION 5: Warehouse Structure & RFID
Modern supermarket warehouse layout
Automation systems
Inventory flow management
RFID technology in retail
Barcode vs RFID systems
Real-time stock tracking
Reducing stock loss and errors
🟢 SESSION 6: Category Management
What is category management?
Role of the category manager
Data-driven assortment planning
Shelf space allocation
Planograms and shelf positioning
Seasonal planning strategies
Managing underperforming SKUs
🟢 SESSION 7: Merchandising Excellence
In-store visibility strategies
Shelf positioning tactics
Promotional planning
Secondary placements & end caps
In-store activations
Working with store managers
Field merchandising teams
🟢 SESSION 8: Communication & Targeting Buyers
Identifying the right buyer
Building long-term buyer relationships
Effective email communication strategies
Presentation techniques that win listings
Trade show networking tactics
Using data in buyer presentations
Following up professionally
🟢 SESSION 9: Getting Paid – Financial Structure
Understanding payment terms (30/60/90 days)
Invoice management
Deduction handling
Chargebacks & penalties
Managing cash flow
Trade marketing budgets
Credit insurance options
🟢 PANEL DISCUSSION: Inside the Buyer’s Mind
Featuring current and former supermarket buyers
What makes them say yes?
Why products get delisted
Biggest supplier mistakes
What retailers expect in 2026 and beyond
Live Q&A
🌙 EVENING SOIRÉE: MEET THE BUYERS
Private Networking Reception
An exclusive evening designed for meaningful connections.
Format:
Welcome cocktail reception
Structured buyer-supplier matchmaking
Roundtable discussions
Informal networking
VIP lounge with former supermarket executives
Attendees:
Supermarket buyers
Category managers
Ex-retail directors
Import managers
Distributors
Investors
Brand owners
Objective:
Build real relationships
Pitch your product directly
Gain insider feedback
Explore listing opportunities
Develop international partnerships
Dress Code: Business Elegant
Access: VIP & Registered Delegates Only
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
Food & beverage producers
FMCG brands
Private label manufacturers
Exporters & importers
Logistics providers
Retail technology companies
Packaging suppliers
Investors in retail