PLMA’s 2024 Private Label Trade Show drew a record number of attendees. 

The sold-out show floor at “The Store Brands Phenomenon 2024 - Empowering the Retail Industry” Private Label Trade Show, taking place Nov. 17 to 19 in Chicago, featured 1,821 exhibitors from 60 countries. There were also 700 first-time exhibitors.

In all, some 14,000 retailers, visitors, exhibitors, and others from the store brand and retailing industries attended.

It was standing room only for the keynote from Dave Rinaldo, President at Aldi. It was the largest crowd ever for any PLMA event. Rinaldo’s main points were an introduction to Aldi, how the company collaborates with suppliers, the industry’s opportunity to drive shopper trust and the impact the industry can make beyond the bottom line through the support of foundations such as Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation to raise money for childhood cancer research.

During his keynote, Rinaldo thanked PLMA for inviting him and stressed his appreciation for the association and the Private Label Trade Show.

Rinaldo said he was honored to deliver the keynote because of the growth opportunities that exist for Aldi and the private label industry as a whole. He cited how more and more consumers are trying and switching to private label.

After Rinaldo’s keynote, the Show floor opened, featuring a record 54 country and regional pavilions from North and South America, Europe and Asia to help buyers to source new and innovative products for today’s global consumer.

“The annual Private Label Trade Show provided an unparalleled opportunity to discover the best and most innovative private label products from around the world, including food, beverages, wine and spirits, health and beauty care, general merchandise and much more,” said PLMA President Peggy Davies.

 Among the trends spotted on the Show floor:

 Hot Honey - Hot honey is a spicy condiment that is being used as a dip, as well as drizzled on pizza and more. Products found on the Show floor: hot honey, hot honey corn, hot honey hummus and hot honey dip.

Kitchen Supplies that Make Clean-up Easier - Consumers are seeking out supplies that simplify their cooking routines. Products found on the Show floor: pre-cut parchment paper and aluminum sheets; roasting bags; air fryer liners and slow cooker bags.

Tempting Truffles - The unique aroma and flavor of truffles can be found in an increasing number of packaged goods. Products found on the Show floor: truffle hot sauce, truffle honey; and soy sauce with four truffles.

Premium Pet Treats - Pet treats made with one single ingredient or limited clean ingredients are available to reward our furry friends. Products found on the Show floor: turmeric cheese chews; freeze-dried lamb bites and meatball-style dog treats.

Pumped with Protein - Snack foods with lower net carbs and higher protein appeal to those taking GLP-1 medicine or who are simply looking for a better-for-you snack. Products found on the Show floor: pea-protein based cheddar crackers with 10 grams of protein per serving: brown rice and spirulina spaghetti with 9 grams of protein; high-protein bread.