The National Grocers Association and Clarion Events released the full lineup of special events for the Feb. 26-28 NGA Show at Caesars Forum Convention Center in Las Vegas, according to a news release.
An "American Ninja Warrior" co-host will emcee the Best Bagger Competition, for one thing. And Wakefern Food Corp. is sponsoring the closing party at Brooklyn Bowl for another.
This year’s lineup has new experience-enhancing events alongside returning favorites, all designed to spark creativity, foster networking and showcase the innovation happening in independent retail grocery today.
The national trade association represents the retail and wholesale grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry. An independent retailer is a privately owned or controlled food retail company operating a variety of formats. The independent grocery sector comprises about 1.2% of the nation's overall economy and is responsible for generating more than $250 billion in sales, 1.1 million jobs, $39 billion in wages and $36 billion in taxes.
NGA members include retail and wholesale grocers in every congressional district nationwide, as well as state grocers associations, manufacturers and service suppliers. Full details about the education program, exhibits, special events, networking and registration are at thengashow.com.
In addition to a full schedule of education, an expansive exhibit hall, food offerings on the show floor and more, the three-day event lineup includes:
Sunday, Feb. 26
Snack and see: Creative Choice campaigns: All show attendees are invited to snack and celebrate as leaders review the winning entries from the 2023 Creative Choice Awards. The competition honors the best marketing and merchandising campaigns in the grocery industry. This creative session provides actionable ideas for innovative programs back home.
Opening social: Join the industry at the kickoff to The NGA Show. Retailers, wholesalers, speakers, media, guests and exhibitors will meet new colleagues and reconnect with friends.
Keynote address: Attendees will be inspired by Erik Weihenmayer who, having lost his vision at 14, became the first person with blindness in history to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 2001. He will share his powerful message about harnessing the power of adversity as fuel for greatness.
WGA networking reception: Open to all women show participants, this is a new opportunity for women leaders to connect, establish new relationships and share experiences.
Monday, Feb. 27
Booth crawl happy hour: End the first day of exhibits with the show’s happy hour, another new event. Stop by designated booths on the show floor for beer, wine and snacks — a fun way to end a day of education, discovery and connections.
Best Bagger Competition: The annual showdown features a head-to-head, bracket-style competition of the best grocery baggers from across the country competing for the title, bragging rights and a $10,000 grand prize. The return of emcee Akbar Gbajabiamila — former professional football player, commentator and co-host of the "American Ninja Warrior" television series — can heighten the energy and excitement during this event. New this year: It's located right off the exhibit floor.
IGA awards ceremony: By invitation. The Independent Grocers Alliance will honor the best of the best at their dinner and awards, which will include member awards ranging from IGA Retailer of the Year from the U.S. and global countries to Red Oval partner and wholesaler awards.
Tuesday, Feb. 28
Closing celebration: Sponsored by Wakefern, the party starts at The Linq Promenade after the conclusion of the Student Case Study Competition on Tuesday. Attendees are invited to Brooklyn Bowl for food, drinks, fun, live performances and bowling. Mix and mingle with peers in a fun and informal setting and share a final connection at The NGA Show.