Business was ‘blooming’ at National Convenience Distributors’ spring-themed trade show at the Eastern States Exposition Center in West Springfield, Massachusetts. With roughly 200 vendors and over 1,000 retailers in attendance, the April 27 event kicked off NCD’s 2023 show season.
While NCD’s shows are best known for their exclusive deals and deep discounts, they have also become quite the family reunion. Spanning four divisions, each show promotes a renewed sense of collaboration and togetherness amongst team members.
But big hugs and catch-up are not just limited to colleagues – the show also presents an opportunity for NCD to reconnect with customer and vendor partners.
“It’s all about strengthening our partner relationships,” said Stacey Mazzella, senior director of marketing at NCD.
“We offer unique, customizable programs to both vendors and retailers that help them increase their bottom line, and our trade shows allow them to ask questions about these programs and experience their value in real time. We understand each partner has different needs, and we want them to feel empowered when building their business.”
Additionally, the spring event marked the debut of new items from three of NCD’s proprietary brands, Craft House Bakery, Mighty Chicken and My Pie. The “NCD Spotlight” area showcased the brands’ latest quesadillas, paninis and buffalo chicken pizza, as well as Mighty Chicken and My Pie’s classic fare, ranging from chicken sandwiches and tenders to cheese and pepperoni pizzas. Just outside of the “NCD Spotlight” area, attendees could find other new items like My Pie’s variety of gourmet calzones and Craft House’s fresh baked goods.
However, the show wasn’t all business. The NCD team shared a bit of fun with birthday and retirement celebrations and a special visit from the West Springfield mayor, Will Reichelt.
Vendors and retailers can plan for NCD’s virtual show in June and the next live show on September 21 at Harrah’s Resort and Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
