AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands — In 2025, total sales of store brands reached $282.8 billion — an increase of $9 billion year-over-year and a new record.
When you organize the major trade shows in this industry, it’s essential to respond to the market and stay ahead of the curve.
That’s why organizers at the Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) are introducing a host of new ideas at the 2026 World of Private Label International Trade Show May 19-20 at the RAI Amsterdam convention center.
The industry looks to PLMA’s shows for the connections and intelligence to run their businesses. PLMA’s Annual Private Label Trade Show in Chicago has historically been recognized by the Trade Show Executive Fastest 50 Awards & Summit.
Less than three weeks out, attendee and exhibitor numbers for the World of Private Label International Trade Show (which predicts 3,200 new and returning exhibitors from more than 80 countries) are on track — despite the current geopolitical and economic challenges.
Peggy Davies, President at PLMA, is anticipating another dynamic and productive event.
“Our show brings together a professional global community, and that continues to hold strong,” she said. “This industry has proven its resilience time and again.”
The association’s research shows strong growth across Europe, which, according to Davies, reflects “both resilience and a lasting shift in consumer behavior.”
Related. How Does the Private Label Trade Show Keep Breaking Records After 40 Years?
“Our International Private Label Market Report revealed that private label market shares have continued to rise across many European markets, with several countries now exceeding 40% and even 50% market share in sales,” Davies explained.
What’s driving that growth, she said, is not just price sensitivity during this period of economic pressure, but consumers discovering that private label products deliver on quality, and retailers investing significantly in elevating their own brands.
What’s Changing at the Show?
Consumers are increasingly focused on health, wellness and sustainability, and choosing organic, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free products. This year, nearly 30% of the show floor will be dedicated to exhibitors in the organic, vegan and plant-based categories.
“It’s a deliberate effort to align the event with what’s shaping the future of private label [and] give both retailers and manufacturers clear visibility into the trends that are driving growth and creating new opportunities across the industry,” Davies said.
Another change will be the expansion and renaming of the World of Ideas (formerly the Idea Supermarket).
“This area continues to resonate because it brings together a broad spectrum of trends and product innovation that includes everything from premium and health and wellness to convenience and globally inspired offerings across both food and non-food categories,” Davies shared.
Ultimately, the World of Ideas — and the entire show — plan to deliver inspiration and insight, bring a fresh perspective to the private label industry and identify new growth opportunities in an increasingly competitive landscape.
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