KEASBEY, N.J. – Wakefern Food Corp., the largest retailer-owned supermarket cooperative in the U.S., announced its 2026 Local Wellness Supplier Summit, inviting wellness-focused local suppliers to pitch innovative foods, beverages, and household products for potential placement across its store banners this fall.
The application process, which opened on July 22 via the RangeMe platform, targets suppliers based in communities served by Wakefern’s retail banners, including ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Fairway Market, Dearborn Market, Gourmet Garage, and Di Bruno Bros.
With a strong focus on clean-label, organic, plant-based, and functional products, the Summit is designed to unveil new items that support the evolving health and wellness needs of Wakefern’s customer base. Applicants have until August 12 to submit their products for consideration.
“Our goal is to connect with forward-thinking, wellness-oriented suppliers who are passionate about their products and the people they serve,” said Darren Caudill, Chief Sales Officer, Wakefern Food Corp. “From functional beverages and clean-label snacks to household products, we’re casting a wide net to discover items that support our customers’ health and wellness goals.”
Ten finalists will be selected to pitch in person to Wakefern’s merchandising team. Selected winners will earn a minimum one-year placement in select ShopRite stores, with the potential to expand into additional Wakefern banners.
Applicants are encouraged to highlight product certifications, such as Organic, Kosher, or Vegan; existing retail placements; unique selling points; and their company’s mission. Suppliers must also be headquartered in one of the states where Wakefern operates: New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, or New Hampshire.
The initiative aligns with Wakefern’s ongoing commitment to supporting small businesses and local suppliers. Past summits have helped launch successful private-label items under the cooperative’s Bowl & Basket and Wholesome Pantry brands.
To be considered for the latest supplier summit, applicants must fill out the online RangeMe application.
