National Grocers Association’s NGA Show Heading to San Diego for First Time
February 12, 2019
The sun will shine bright in San Diego next week as the National Grocers Association convenes in the city for the first time ever for the 2019 NGA Show.
The 35th annual trade show and conference for the grocery industry brings together independent retailers and wholesalers, food retail industry executives, food/CPG manufacturers and service providers for learning and networking opportunities.
This year’s show, produced and managed by Clarion UX, will feature more than 400 exhibiting companies occupying a total of 57,000 square feet of space across San Diego Convention Center, Feb. 24-27.
Significant growth in the show over the last five years contributed to the move of The NGA Show from Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas (where it was held from 2011-18) to San Diego, according to show officials.
“This is an exciting time for The NGA Show and independent supermarket operators, who are innovating every day to find memorable ways to stand out and better serve their communities,” said Matt Ott, executive vice president had chief operating officer for NGA. “When we looked for a new location, we wanted it to match that sentiment.”
Other than the convention center, which debuted splashy LED lights on its Sails Pavilion (pictured) a year ago, San Diego’s tremendous entertainment opportunities were a major selling point for the NGA. Highlights of the city for visitors include the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, the USS Midway Museum, the revitalized Gaslamp Quarter and of course, its beautiful beaches.
An NGA Foundation event will be held at Petco Park, with all other activities taking place at the convention center.
"We are proud to be able to continue to attract new business to the San Diego region,” said San Diego Convention Center Corporation President & CEO Clifford “Rip” Rippetoe. “This happens because our city, as a destination, is working together.”
He added, “Our staff is known in the industry for our exceptional customer service, and we share a common goal with our tourism partners in creating an ideal meeting destination.”
While the city’s attractions will draw attendees out to explore, the event agenda will include many exciting draws of its own, including the opportunity to see thousands of new products; attend more than 60 educational sessions and hear from speakers like Dana Perino, former White House press secretary.
Seven pavilions on the trade show floor will focus on meat, produce, coffee, technology, seasonal merchandise, and ethnic and specialty foods.
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Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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