Wakefern Food Corp., the nation’s largest retailer-owned supermarket cooperative, is inviting local suppliers to apply for its 2026 Local Wellness Supplier Summit, which will be held this fall.
The event seeks to identify innovative health-focused foods, beverages, and household products for possible placement across Wakefern’s family of supermarket banners, which includes ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Dearborn Market, Gourmet Garage, Fairway Market and Di Bruno Bros.
The application period opened July 22 and runs through August 12. Suppliers headquartered in states served by Wakefern — including New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire — are eligible to apply via the RangeMe online platform.
Wakefern is particularly interested in products aligned with current health and wellness trends, such as clean-label, plant-based, organic, and functional items. Ten finalists will be selected to present their products in person to the Wakefern team. Winners will receive at least a one-year product placement in select ShopRite stores, with potential expansion to other Wakefern banners.
“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 at Wakefern Food Corp.
Applicants will be asked to describe how their products support health and wellness, what differentiates them in the market, and whether they can meet supply demands across Wakefern’s more than 300 locations. Suppliers are also encouraged to note relevant certifications and current retail placements.
Wakefern has a history of supporting local businesses through supplier summits and has previously discovered vendors for its private label brands, including Bowl & Basket and Wholesome Pantry.
To be considered, applicants must complete the RangeMe application by August 12.
