Wakefern Food Corp. is inviting suppliers to apply for the 2026 Local Wellness Supplier Summit taking place this fall.
The application process opened to suppliers on July 22 and can be submitted through until Aug. 12.
The event aims to explore new and exciting health-focused foods, beverages and products for potential placement in Wakefern supermarket banners. Clean-label, organic, plant-based or functional products – are strongly encouraged. Suppliers are also encouraged to provide details about their product certifications (e.g., Organic, Kosher, Vegan), current retail placements and their company’s mission.
Applicants will be asked to share how their products support health and wellness, what makes their offerings unique in the market and whether they can meet the production demands for a retailer with 300+ stores.
Local suppliers should also be headquartered in states where Wakefern supermarket banners operate, including New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire.
10 finalists will be invited to pitch their products in person to the Wakefern team this fall.
Winners will be awarded a minimum one-year product placement at select ShopRite stores and may be considered for broader placement across Wakefern’s other supermarket banners.
“Our goal is to connect with forward-thinking, wellness-oriented suppliers who are passionate about their products and the people they serve,” Darren Caudill, chief sales officer, Wakefern Food Corp said. “From functional beverages and clean-label snacks to household products, we’re casting a wide net to discover items that support our customers’ health and wellness goals.”
