The Salt Palace Convention Center was back in action Wednesday morning as the 2026 Associated Food Stores Annual Food Show got underway. Independent grocers and vendors from across AFS’ service area filled the hall early, with retailers moving booth to booth, sampling products, talking through ideas and making plans for the year ahead.
The show remains a key opportunity to reconnect with long-term partners, meet new ones, and have direct conversations about what’s working and what needs to change.
The floor featured strong showings from AFS teams and partners like Exclusive Brands, with booths focused on product demos and practical ways to bring new items to stores. Both national and local vendors had a solid presence, highlighting the businesses that remain a key part of AFS’s approach.
The Built to Build theme carried through the event, with a clear focus on growth and execution. Conversations centered on product mix, pricing and how to stay competitive in a changing environment.
Vendors saw steady traffic throughout both days, with retailers asking thoughtful questions and looking for ideas they could take back and apply quickly.
AFS teams were well represented across the floor, with most AFS departments on hand to connect directly with retailers and walk through the services and support available to them.
By the end of the show, the tone was consistent: strong turnout, productive conversations, and clear next steps. As the booths came down and the Salt Palace Convention Center cleared out, the 2026 Food Show wrapped up as another solid event for AFS and its retail and vendor partners.
Watch Team News and StoreLink for highlight videos, meeting recaps, and more in the coming days.