NEW YORK — Walmart Inc., Sam’s Club, Wakefern Food Corp., Topco Associates, Whole Foods Market, ALDI and Albertsons Companies were the top winners in the Private Label Manufacturers Association’s 2026 Salute to Excellence Awards, a competition that drew a record of more than 900 product entries.
Now in its 40th year, the competition recognizes store brand products from North American retailers and wholesalers. A panel of consumer and industry professionals evaluated entries on taste and sensory appeal, packaging, product concept and value for money.
This year’s winners reflected a range of product development trends, from pickle flavors and internationally inspired foods to sensitive-skin formulas and health-focused pet products.
Food and beverage winners included Korean- and Latin-inspired dishes, better-for-you options, indulgent dessert and café flavors, and functional foods emphasizing fiber and protein. Among nonfood products, trends included food-inspired scents, gentle and “free” formulas, and items designed for children and parents.
The awards offer an opportunity to raise awareness of store brands, recognize retailers for product quality and strengthen consumer trust, said Suzanne Caputo, PLMA’s director of retail trade relations.
Walmart’s winning products spanned several of its private brands. They included Marketside Dill Pickle Hamburger Buns, Great Value Agua de Coconut con Pulpa, Equate Sensitive Skin Foaming Wash and Vibrant Life Crystal Health Monitoring Cat Litter.
Sam’s Club received recognition for its Member’s Mark High Protein Penne Pasta with Italian Sausage and Clybourn 4-Piece Outdoor Sofa Seating Set, illustrating the breadth of categories represented in the competition.
Other winning food products included ShopRite/Wakefern’s Bowl & Basket Blueberry Pie Trail Mix, ALDI’s Fremont Fish Market Yellowfin Tuna in Oil and Whole Foods Market’s Pasture-Raised Regenerative Organic Brown Eggs. Topco’s Food Club Drink Mix Stix Variety Pack also was among the winners.
In nonfood categories, recognized products included Topco’s TopCare Vanilla & Sandalwood Deodorant and Albertsons’ Signature Select Kids Mythical Creatures Bandages and Rechargeable Toothbrush.
A full list of winners can be found online at this link.
