United Natural Foods Unveils Strategies and Trends to Help Grocery Retailers Thrive This Summer
United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE: UNFI) recently launched its 2025 show season with the Spring and Summer Selling Show in San Diego, California. The two-day event marked a significant milestone, drawing over 4,300 participants and fostering collaboration between 1,800 retailers and 800 supplier brands. Exhibitors showcased a broad spectrum of natural, organic, fresh, specialty, and conventional grocery products, highlighting innovation and growth opportunities across the industry.
Aaron Jones, Senior Director of Merchandising and Logistics at Bristol Farms, expressed his longstanding partnership with UNFI, saying, “We have a true partnership with UNFI, who’s been our primary distributor since 2010. I’ve enjoyed growing the relationship, finding unique brands, and learning about new-to-market products UNFI is bringing in. We’ve strengthened our collaboration at every level, from corporate buying to our store teams.”
Key Trends Shaping Grocery Retail
During the show, UNFI experts shared insights into the latest trends shaping the grocery retail landscape and how businesses can capitalize on these opportunities for growth. Some of the most impactful trends include:
- The Rapid Growth of Retail Media
Retail media continues to revolutionize how brands engage with consumers. It is projected to grow over 24% annually from 2024 to 2028, creating immense opportunities for retailers to connect with shoppers through innovative digital strategies. - Private Label Dominance
Private label brands are gaining momentum, with an estimated growth of 40% over the next six years. These products allow retailers to differentiate their offerings and build customer loyalty through exclusive, high-quality options. - Accelerated Fresh Product Sales
Sales of fresh products are now outpacing growth across the rest of the grocery store. This underscores the increasing consumer demand for perishable, healthy, and locally sourced options. - Natural and Organic Growth
The natural, organic, and functional food and beverage market is expected to grow approximately 4% annually over the next four years, driven by consumer preferences for healthier and more sustainable choices. - Differentiation as a Competitive Edge
Retailers of all sizes must prioritize creating unique and memorable experiences to stand out in a crowded marketplace. From exclusive product offerings to innovative in-store and online shopping experiences, differentiation is the key to success.
Driving Digital Innovation
Louis Martin, President of Conventional Grocery Products and United Natural Foods Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the importance of retail media and digital transformation in grocery. “While many retailers are engaging their shoppers digitally, there are still untapped opportunities to create a more comprehensive and customized digital experience,” Martin said. “By partnering with United Natural Foods, both retailers and suppliers can access our broad range of digital and professional services, like the United Natural Foods Media Network, to drive profitable growth.”
Insights From Industry Leaders
A highlight of the event was an engaging conversation with Michael Funk, UNFI Co-Founder and Board Member. Reflecting on the evolution of the grocery industry, Funk said, “Innovation is key to keeping this industry vibrant. We need to constantly reset and adapt to best meet the needs of our customers.”
The show also featured United Natural Foods UpNext program, which supports emerging brands in launching and scaling their products. During the Pitch Slam competition, new suppliers presented their innovative products to a live audience. This year’s winner, Sobo Foods, earned recognition for their creativity and potential.
Eric Ji Sun Wu, Co-Founder of Sobo Foods, expressed gratitude for the opportunity: “We’re thrilled to be a UNFI UpNext supplier. We don’t know how we would have done this without the endlessly patient support the UNFI team has given us and the unreal visibility for Sobo Foods at this event.”
Supporting Communities in Need
Demonstrating its commitment to community support, the United Natural Foods Foundation made a donation to Food Forward, a nonprofit organization addressing food insecurity in areas impacted by the Los Angeles County fires. The foundation’s contribution will help deliver fresh produce to affected communities, aligning with UNFI’s mission to create a better food system for all.
United Natural Foods Value Proposition
Since its inception, United Natural Foods has established itself as North America’s premier grocery wholesaler. The company serves over 30,000 locations, including natural product superstores, independent retailers, conventional supermarkets, ecommerce providers, and food service businesses.
UNFI’s offerings go beyond product distribution. The company provides a range of value-added services, such as proprietary technology, market insights, and shelf management, to help retailers and suppliers optimize their operations.
Driving Innovation and Growth
UNFI’s commitment to innovation is evident in its approach to retail media, private label growth, and digital transformation. By leveraging the insights and tools provided by UNFI, grocery retailers can stay ahead of trends, deliver exceptional customer experiences, and drive sustained profitability.
As the industry evolves, partnerships like those fostered by UNFI will remain crucial in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities. With its robust network of retailers and suppliers, UNFI is well-positioned to help businesses adapt and thrive in a competitive marketplace.
About UNFI
UNFI is North America’s largest grocery partner, offering the widest variety of fresh, branded, and owned-brand products. The company is dedicated to delivering value for its stakeholders by maximizing financial results, expanding choices, and introducing fresh thinking to the food industry.
With its extensive network, innovative tools, and focus on sustainability, UNFI continues to redefine what it means to be a grocery wholesaler in today’s dynamic retail environment.
Read more: United Natural Foods Reveals Summer Grocery Trends
