LEAD Marketing Conference

Call Us: +1 440-582-3122

Spring 2024

LEAD Marketing Conference Preliminary Agenda

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, 2024

11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. EDT

CONFERENCE CHAIR:

John Karolefski, Editor-in-Chief, CPGmatters

11:00 a.m. EDT

Exploring AI in CPG: From Use Cases to Success Stories

Joel Cartwright, Industry Principal, Consumer Products, Vistex

The Consumer-Packaged Goods industry is currently immersed in discussions surrounding AI, prompting extensive dialogue and inquiry. Among the pressing questions is the strategic application of AI to business processes: Should AI capabilities be developed first, then applied to a relevant use case? Alternatively, should a use case be identified beforehand, guiding the implementation of AI?

This LEAD session will explore methods for formulating business process use cases optimized for AI integration. Furthermore, it aims to assess the potential expansion of AI applications beyond customer planning to other operational domains.

11:50 a.m. EDT

Loyalty Disrupted: Transforming Consumer Relationships with CPGs Utilizing In-Store Insights

Danielle Patterson, Sr. Director of B2B Marketing,

Georgios Tzafis, Vice President, Sales of Emerging &

Midcap Brands, and

Sarah Jankowski, Director, User Growth and Integrated Marketing,

Trax Retail

Join us as we dive into the evolving landscape of consumer loyalty in the CPG industry. With Instacart, in-store pick-up, and other grocery innovations shaking up the market, the traditional concept of brand loyalty is being redefined.

After surveying over 10,000 consumers, the number one reason why consumers shift in loyalty for CPG brands is due to product not being on the shelf when they want it! In this session, we’ll dive into consumer shopping expectations and offer innovative solutions. It’s time to stay ahead during this pivotal point of disruption.

12:40 p.m. EDT

Using Certifications to Enhance Credibility

And Stand Out in the Marketplace

Nikki Smith, Associate Director of Marketplace Development,

Plant Based Foods Association

Jen Berkebile, Technical Scheme Lead - Food Product Claims,

NSF, International

Megan Mahon, Director - Product Intelligence Certification Partnerships,

SPINS

Sarah-Marie Cole, Chief Marketing Officer, MyForest Foods

In today's dynamic business environment, third-party certifications are no longer just an option but a necessity. Join us for an enlightening LEAD session featuring industry leaders from NSF International, SPINS, MyForest Foods, and the Plant Based Foods Association as we delve into the realm of certifications and their pivotal role in propelling your business forward.

Discover how certifications are a beacon of trust, guiding consumers toward your products amidst a sea of choices. Learn the intricacies of the certification process and gain expert insider knowledge, ensuring a smooth journey toward certification while enhancing your brand's credibility and appeal. Delve into market data and trends to understand the pulse of the plant-based landscape, unlocking invaluable growth opportunities.