WASHINGTON -- Food Marketing Institute here said last week the fourth annual Supplier Diversity Program at the 2001 Supermarket Industry Convention and Educational Exposition, to be held May 6-8 at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, will reflect continuing diversity in consumer tastes, preferences and demographics.
moyer, FMI vice president of convention operations. "FMI's Supplier Diversity Program provides an outstanding, cost-effective opportunity for minority- and women-owned businesses to gain exposure for their goods and services, and it is a great forum for retailers to learn more about market-specific product lines."
Introduced by FMI in 1998, the Supplier Diversity Program is a comprehensive strategy to expand opportunities for minority business enterprises and women-owned business enterprises throughout the food distribution industry. Participants receive a substantial discount on the exhibitor fee for the convention.
By displaying their products and services at the FMI Show, exhibitors receive numerous benefits, including:
Since its introduction, the Supplier Diversity Program has produced numerous successful retailer-supplier partnerships. Supermarket chains such as Ahold USA, Kroger, Publix, Wegmans, Stop & Shop, Ukrop's and Bi-Lo have all established working agreements with program participants, including fast-growing brands like Glory Foods, Michele Foods, La Milagro, Uncle Wiley's and Magnolia Spice Teas.
For additional information about the convention, contact FMI's automated show Infoline at 1-800-890-SHOW (7469), ext. 900.