Seminars, industry competitions and a trade show floor will highlight the Wisconsin Grocers Association (WGA) Innovation Expo on August 18 at the Wilderness Resort, bringing together grocery retailers, suppliers, and industry partners for a day of learning, networking, and innovation.
This year’s event, themed “250 Years in the Making,” will feature longtime Innovation Expo favorites alongside new opportunities, including a floral arranging contest sponsored by Krueger Wholesale Florists and the debut of the Local Lane, sponsored by the Food Finance Institute (FFI).
“Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens when we come together,” said WGA Board of Directors Chair Steve Burkhardt. “This year’s WGA Innovation Expo offers valuable educational sessions, networking opportunities and hands-on experiences for attendees across the grocery industry.”
The Local Lane will feature 30 Wisconsin vendors in addition to the 87 booths found at the Wisconsin Grocery Industry Trade Show, providing grocers the opportunity to discover locally made products and connect with emerging businesses.
“It’s so important for local small businesses to connect with buyers (and each other!) face-to-face,” said FFI Director Sarah Larson. “This partnership is a great opportunity to strengthen our commitment to our small food and farm businesses by helping them grow, scale and access new markets. This also remains a great opportunity to connect, convene and bring the broader ecosystem together.”
The day will begin with an invitation-only Wisconsin grocers Owners Meeting followed by educational sessions including “Winning the Margin Game: Smart Strategies for Grocery Success” and “Practical AI for Grocery Retailers.”
Attendees can also showcase their skills through several competitions, including a live cake decorating contest and The Great Wisconsin Bag-Off, where contestants will compete for the opportunity to represent Wisconsin at the national competition during The NGA Show.
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