PLMA’s 2021 International Roundtable Conference, which took place 17-18 February 2021, was hosted online, and it has been a great success, according to PLMA. More than 150 industry executives in manufacturing and retailing registered from 36 countries from all continents, keen to learn about business solutions for the future.

Peggy Davies commented: “As we are moving into a new area where online platforms are an added value for B2B and future businesses, PLMA has proven to be agile and capable to embrace online opportunities to connect the private label industry worldwide.”

The topic “Partnership now and in the future” was addressed at the opening as speakers offered insights into today’s challenges and new business opportunities.

According to Richard Cope, senior trends consultant for Mintel, 2.6bn Generation Z shoppers present an enormous opportunity for retailers and private label manufacturers. Convenience, health and sustainability are the main drivers of Gen Z. They are more aware of social responsibility, a cleaner planet and their health. Gen Z consumers are most likely to seek and expect help from the retailers for a healthier lifestyle but are also very price conscious of price and value.

The second day of the PLMA Roundtable presented a series of workshops by IGD, devoted to examination of retailing today and in the future. Early sessions focused on vulnerabilities and strengths in the retail supply chain, accelerated growth of e-commerce, and their impact on private label and packaging.

Sustainability was again among topics addressed in one IGD session, emphasizing: “Sustainability is no longer an option but has become a must in the supply chain as customers shift channels and expectations evolve. Sustainability is the new normal.”