Wakefern announces its Own Brands Supplier Summit will be held in June

Wakefern Food Corp. will host its Own Brands Supplier Diversity Summit in June, the country’s largest retailer-owned cooperative said on Monday. 

Through Jan. 23, certified diverse private-label manufacturers and suppliers interested in participating in Wakefern’s Own Brands Supplier Diversity Summit can submit their application through RangeMe.

The event is an invitation to diverse private-label manufacturers to source food and beverage products for possible addition to Wakefern’s Bowl & Basket and Wholesome Pantry store brands portfolio.

“We are excited to expand on the success of our first Own Brands Supplier Summit,” said Bryant Harris, chief merchandising officer at Wakefern in a statement. “We are particularly looking forward to meeting with a variety of diverse manufacturers to learn more about their unique products. At Wakefern, we know that embracing diversity fosters creativity and strengthens our product offerings and services.”

Wakefern’s private-label team will consider submissions for virtual pitch meetings and finalists will attend a one-day summit in June at Wakefern’s headquarters in Keasbey, New Jersey. The strongest products will be selected for potential addition to Wakefern’s shelves, with a goal of establishing long-term partnerships, Wakefern said in a statement.

To be considered for the Own Brands Supplier Diversity Summit, certified diverse suppliers must fill out a RangeMe application online. Certified minority, LGBTQ , woman-, veteran- and persons-with-disabilities-owned businesses with products or services in the listed categories can apply. Wakefern will not be accepting submissions for non-food items, supplemental and nutritional items, or baby food. All other food items will be considered. Applicants must provide a complete and accurate description of the product and product line, including a brand profile.

From a small, local cooperative that began with eight grocery store owners, Wakefern Food Corp. has grown into the largest retailer-owned cooperative in the United States, with its members operating more than 300 stores under the ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Dearborn Market, Gourmet Garage and Fairway Market banners throughout the mid-Atlantic and New England.