National Grocers Association’s NGA Show Heading to San Diego for First Time
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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