Content is King (or Queen, as we like to think here at New Hope). Originally coined by Bill Gates back in ’96, the saying has never felt truer. Brands and retailers are continuing to seek innovative ways to differentiate themselves and stand out as thought leaders and go-to experts for their customers, who are driven by values and information.

Newtopia Now tackles these evolving customer demands head-on in our “Insights for Retailers” sessions, which equip retailers with the tools they need to thrive.

During these stimulating sessions—from panels to workshops—experts will explore how to build winning retail strategies for the future. Be sure to check out the full agenda here for all content highlights. And don’t forget: Matchmaking is live! Sign up and start setting up meetings to ensure you find the right partners to put all this knowledge into effect in your store.     

Why Supporting Diverse-Owned Brands and Multicultural Products is Critical to Retail Success
Have you ever wondered how retailers can benefit from supporting diverse-owned brands and sustainable products? During this session, UNFI's Supplier Diversity team will discuss the transformative impact of supporting diverse-owned brands and implementing robust supplier diversity goals, demonstrating that inclusivity is not only ethical but also advantageous for business. They bring a background in healthcare advocacy and public policy to the Newtopia Now stage, as well as their passion and experience with creating a more equitable CPG industry.

Date | Time: Monday, August 26, 10:30-11 a.m.
Location: Represent Stage

Modern Category Management: Room for Innovation and Success with INFRA
Retail strategists Danelle Rydel and Angela Bozo of the Independent Natural Food Retailers Association (INFRA) delve into innovative category management techniques that drive growth in a dynamic marketplace, as well as strategies for managing categories with new trends and innovations. Through real-world case studies and inspiring brand examples, you’ll discover breakthrough opportunities and practical strategies to propel your success with smart category management.

Date | Time: Monday, August 26, 1-1:45 p.m.
Location: Thrive Stage

Cultivating Change: Retail Practices for Supporting Sustainable Brands & Agriculture
Learn more about the best practices for promoting sustainable agriculture and informing customers about these practices. This engaging session will focus on sustainable retail practices, advocating for partnerships with brands that support regenerative agriculture and sustainable packaging, and how these practices can resonate with customers.

Date | Time: Monday, August 26, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Location: Regenerate Stage

Conscious Beauty’s Glow Up: Merchandising for Values & Results-Driven Shoppers
As clean beauty becomes increasingly prevalent across all retail channels, buyers, category managers and store owners require actionable strategies for building out a competitive HBA set and growing their bottom line. From developing the right store standards and innovative education initiatives to understanding growth categories and areas of opportunity, retail experts will provide insights on how to succeed in the growing clean beauty market and ensure a competitive and value-driven health and beauty strategy.

Date | Time: Monday, August 26, 3:45-4:15 p.m.
Location: Glow Stage