Events

THE 2025 VERTEX AWARDS IS NOW OPEN FOR ENTRIES!!!

The Vertex Awards are back, officially opening submissions for their 13th annual competition. Recognized globally as the pinnacle of excellence in Retailer-owned Brand / private brand / private label branding and package design, the Vertex Awards invites retailers, manufacturers, and agencies to showcase their best work and gain international acclaim. This year, the competition promises to spotlight the most innovative and creative designs in the Retailer-owned Brand industry. Entries can now be submitted at the most cost-effective rate of the year: the Early Bird pricing. Why Enter the Vertex Awards? Winning a Vertex Award isn’t just a win—it’s a

Countdown to the Velocity Bold Bash – Limited Time Left to Join the Party!

RSVP FREE Tick Tock! Don’t Miss Out on the Velocity Bold Bash – Secure Your Spot Now! After a full, productive (and let’s face it, exhausting) day on the PLMA Trade Show floor, we invite you to relax, connect, and celebrate the boldest minds in private brands at the Velocity Bold Bash. Presented by Equator, this evening is dedicated to building connections, sparking conversations, and recognizing the most innovative leaders in our industry. When: Monday, November 18, 2023 | 6:00 – 8:00 PM CST Where: Joe’s Live Rosemont, 5441 Park Place, Rosemont, IL 60018 – conveniently located near

The Ultimate PLMA Afterparty: Cocktails and Connections at the Velocity Bold Bash

RSVP FREE After a full, productive (and let’s face it, exhausting) day on the PLMA Trade Show floor, we invite you to relax, connect, and celebrate the boldest minds in private brands at the Velocity Bold Bash. Presented by Equator, this evening is dedicated to building connections, sparking conversations, and recognizing the most innovative leaders in our industry. When: Monday, November 18, 2023 | 6:00 – 8:00 PM CST Where: Joe’s Live Rosemont, 5441 Park Place, Rosemont, IL 60018 – conveniently located near the PLMA Trade Show at the Donald E. Stephens Convention & Conference Center Connect and

Can You Really Feed a Family of Four for $20? Target’s Thanksgiving Bundle Says Yes! – Velocity This Week Live

On October 30, Velocity This Week Live, hosted by Christopher and Laraine Durham, delivered the latest news, insights, and trends within the private brand industry. Christopher Durham, President of the Velocity Institute, and Laraine Durham, VP of Marketing and Events, welcomed viewers to a packed episode, underscoring the show’s mission as the leading source for all things Private Brand, Private Label, and Retailer-owned Brands. Together, they set an engaging and informative tone, blending Christopher’s expertise with Laraine’s focus on events and audience engagement. They promised a mix of breaking news, industry insights, and updates on upcoming events—ensuring viewers

Walmart Gets Wicked with Great Value Collab – Velocity This Week Live

On this week’s episode of Velocity This Week Live, Christopher and Laraine Durham delivered a packed news broadcast on the latest private brand innovations, market insights, and industry trends. Here’s a quick recap of the top stories discussed: Fareway Launches Premium Brand: Truly Yours Midwestern grocer Fareway has rolled out its new premium private label, Truly Yours, across all 139 stores. This brand aims to provide indulgent, creative food options with busy parents and quality-seekers in mind. The first wave of products includes: Chocolate Truffles (Assorted varieties) – $12.99 Sea Salt Caramels (Dark and Milk Chocolate) – $12.99

Announcing the Velocity Institute BOLD Awards: Submit Your Nominations Today!

The Velocity Institute is excited to launch the inaugural Velocity BOLD Awards—a first-of-its-kind initiative showcasing the boldest and most innovative retailers, manufacturers, suppliers, and solution providers in the retailer-owned brand industry. Our goal is to celebrate the achievements of BOLD leaders, showcase transformative innovations, and motivate the industry to reach new heights by recognizing BOLD actions, BOLD strategies, and BOLD growth. These awards honor the industry leaders who refuse to settle for second place, driving progress with courage and vision. Nomination Details: The Velocity BOLD Awards are open to individuals and companies—including retailers, manufacturers, suppliers, and solution providers—that contribute

Sprouts Unveils New Real Root- Velocity This Week Live

In the latest episode of Velocity This Week Live, hosted by Christopher Durham, President of the Velocity Institute, and co-host Laraine, viewers were treated to an insightful look at how leading retailers are embracing sustainability and innovation within their private brand offerings. Airing on Wednesday, October 9, the show focused on groundbreaking initiatives from Sprouts Farmers Market, Sainsbury’s, Home Depot, and Trader Joe’s. Sprouts Launches Real Root Line Sprouts Farmers Market took center stage with the unveiling of their new Real Root by Sprouts line, a collection of over 130 natural and cruelty-free products. The retailer is positioning

Whole Foods Cuts Private Brand Prices – Velocity This Week Live

This Week on Velocity Live: Major Moves in Private Brands! Date: Wednesday, October 2, 2024 In this week’s episode of Velocity Live, Christopher Durham, President of the Velocity Institute, dives into exciting developments in the private brand world. Some of the biggest names in retail are making major shifts in their private label strategies, and we’re here to break it all down. From price cuts to sustainability goals, it’s an action-packed episode you don’t want to miss! Whole Foods CEO Cuts Prices to Stay Competitive Whole Foods CEO Jason Buechel is making waves by slashing prices on the

Time is Running Out! Register for the Private Brand Sustainability Event of the Year

REGISTER NOW! The 5th Annual Velocity Institute Sustainability Summit is fast approaching! This year’s summit, focused on Retailer-owned Brands (Private Brands) and Sustainability, promises to be an unparalleled event designed to unite the industry, accelerate sustainability efforts, share best practices, and explore the future of private brands. Meet the Retailers Leading the Sustainability Charge! Join us in Phoenix to connect with Sprouts, Ahold Delhaize, Whole Foods, Albertsons, Walmart, Thrive Market, Staples, IGA, Meijer, and PetSmart executives. These retailers are at the forefront of the private brand and sustainability movements, each bringing their unique perspectives and success stories. This is

Albertsons Introduces Eco-Friendly Wine Bee Lightly – Velocity This Week Live

In this week's edition of Velocity Institute This Week Live, we’re diving into some exciting product launches, sustainability efforts, and innovative packaging in the private brand industry. From ALDI’s fan-favorite picks to Albertsons’ eco-friendly wine bottles, there's plenty of news worth celebrating. Let’s take a closer look at the top stories discussed on this week’s show. ALDI Unveils 2024 Fan Favorites: Customers Lead the Charge ALDI continues its robust customer-driven approach by unveiling its 2024 Fan Favorites. Over 13 must-have products, chosen by its loyal shoppers, make this year's list, ranging from everyday essentials to indulgent treats. ALDI’s