Recognized by @USA TODAY's 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards across top grocery, bakery, deli, produce, and prepared food categories—The Fresh Market will be participating in Founders' Innovation Day and showcase how they build a signature food-focused shopping experience.

Founders and brand leaders will gain an insider’s look at how The Fresh Market curates gourmet products, partners with local suppliers, and executes high-impact seasonal merchandising.

Panelists:
Moderator, Alyssa Vescio – Chief Merchandising Officer

Michelle Beck – Director of Merchandising (Private Label & Local)

Pilar Aritizab– Director of Merchandising (BCC / Seasonals / Gift Center)

Key Discussion Pillars:
The Specialty Grocery Standard: How The Fresh Market selects and curates premium products that define its culinary-first, high-hospitality shopping environment.

Local & Private Label Curation: The strategy behind blending exclusive private-label items with local artisanal products to differentiate stores and build brand loyalty.

Seasonal & Destination Merchandising: Driving impulse purchases and holiday excitement through specialized gift centers, seasonal assortments, and core specialty departments like Bulk, Candy, and Coffee (BCC).

Partnering with The Fresh Market: What buyers look for in emerging brands—focusing on taste, quality standards, packaging, and supply chain readiness to secure shelf placement.