Look Ahead: Brian Sharoff, PLMA 2014

Gama spoke to Brian Sharoff, President of PLMA, ahead of the private label industry trade show in Amsterdam.

 What are your day to day activities?

As president of PLMA, I am responsible for our annual trade shows, conferences, publications, and educational programs.

How many people work in the organisation before and during the fair?

We have approximately 50  people on our staff in Amsterdam and other major cities. This grows to nearly 100 during the fair.

What are your expectations for this edition of PLMA?

We anticipate nearly 4,000 exhibitor stands, representing more than 70 countries, and nearly 11,000 visitors from more than 100 countries. Products will cover  the full range of food, household and health and beauty.

What are your plans to further develop World of Private Label?

Our long-term plan is to make sure that the show reflects the needs of  retailers and manufacturers who are involved in the marketing of private label products.

What key trends do you expect to shape private label in 2014?

The key trends which will influence private label in 2014 will be the continuing popularity of convenience and ready-to-serve foods and the growing interest in organic and natural products, both food and non-food.

What should manufacturers do to be successful in the current economic climate?

Manufacturers should focus on innovation in their product category in order to attract customers. They will want to be flexible in order to meet retailer needs and attempt to control costs so that they can compete as lowest-cost suppliers.