McLane Co., one of the largest distributors to retail and restaurant brands, will “transform” its annual trade show, hosting the newly rebranded McLane Engage at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas Aug. 29-31.
With the support of title sponsor Reynolds and platinum sponsors The Hershey Company, Kraft Heinz, Altria and TSN–a Bunzl Company, among others, McLane Engage brings customers and suppliers together for a full-scale trade-show experience. The trade show will feature booths from more than 160 exhibitors and include a new products showcase.
The show will provide the opportunity to build connections with industry leaders and to learn from experts in an inspired lineup of educational sessions. Daymond John, CEO of Fubu and investor on ABC's "Shark Tank," and Chet Garner, host of Emmy-award winning PBS show, "The Daytripper," will anchor the experience with keynote talks.
"McLane Engage is a strategic decision to transform an important industry event, our annual National Trade Show, into a world-class engagement opportunity that drives growth and connection," said Chris Smith, president of McLane Grocery. "There is immense value in facilitating an exchange of ideas among thought leaders, experts and key players in our industry, and we are proud to bring that to our partners."
During McLane Engage, the company will also unveil new products and programs as part of an enhanced retail solution for convenience stores that will provide a robust selection of on-trend immediate consumption items. These will include beverage programs, commissary products like fresh sandwiches and salads, and meals for all dayparts. The program is bolstered by McLane's full-service solutions that provide retailers with access to equipment, training and menu innovation resources.
To lead the enhanced foodservice retail division, McLane named its first vice president of retail foodservice, Jon Cox. Cox brings more than 25 years of leadership experience across retail, grocery and convenience-store organizations, including Giant Eagle Inc., Giant Food and HEB. Prior to joining McLane, Cox served as the chief merchandising officer for Getgo Café + Market.
"I am proud to join McLane's team at an exciting time and honored to lead our vision for the future," said Cox. "Retail foodservice is growing rapidly, and McLane is elevating our programs to deliver innovative solutions that meet the unique needs of our customers, wherever they are on their journey. We look forward to debuting new programs at Engage."
Click here for more information about McLane Engage. McLane Engage is an invitation-only event for McLane c-store customers and suppliers. McLane customers and suppliers interested in attending may contact their McLane representative.
Based in Temple, Texas, McLane Co. is one of the largest distributors in America, serving convenience stores, mass merchants and chain restaurants. McLane has more than 80 distribution centers across the country, employs more than 25,000 teammates, and delivers to nearly every zip code in the United States. McLane is a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc.
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