PLMA Trade Show Will Host Chicago Gathering

The Private Label Manufacturers Association will convene in Chicago for its annual trade show from November 15 to 17.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Consumer Goods

Isometric editorial illustration of minimalist, unbranded geometric product packaging arranged on a clean plinth, representing retail industry inventory. — The PLMA Private Label Trade Show convenes in Chicago in November, reflecting the continued record-setting growth of store-brand retail products. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you generally trust the quality of store-brand products as much as name-brand alternatives?

The PLMA Private Label Trade Show will take place in Chicago from November 15 to 17, highlighting the growth of store brands. These private labels reached a record 23.8% unit market share by mid-year 2026.

Why it matters

Retailers are increasingly leveraging store brands to build consumer loyalty and differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Success is now driven more by product quality and innovation than by price alone.

Store brands achieved a record 23.8% unit share at mid-year 2026, outperforming national brand unit volume. Research indicates that performance trust is five times more predictive of adoption than price points.

The players

Private Label Manufacturers Association

This is an international trade organization representing the private label industry that hosts an annual trade show.

The details

The event will feature international pavilions from Japan, Israel, Vietnam, and the UAE for the first time. Attendees can utilize the Show Navigator digital tool to manage schedules and engage with exhibitors as the industry shifts toward strategic partnerships.

Mid-year 2026 marked the period when store brands reached a 23.8% unit market share.
The PLMA Private Label Trade Show will occur from November 15 to 17, 2026.

Market Landscape

The rise of store brands reflects a broader industry transition where retailers move from transactional interactions to deep strategic partnerships with manufacturers. This evolution capitalizes on the trend of private labels competing directly with established national brands through improved product innovation.

Shoppers can expect a wider variety of store-branded products as retailers expand into new nonfood categories. These goods are increasingly positioned as quality alternatives to traditional national brands based on consumer trust.

The takeaway

Consumers are increasingly prioritizing product performance and innovation when choosing store brands over national alternatives. Buyers should look for broader store-brand availability as retailers continue to innovate beyond food categories.