Natural Products Marketplace Virtual Event a Hit

PHOENIXThe first-ever Natural Products Marketplace Virtual Event, developed by Natural Products Marketplace magazine, received high praise from independent and chain natural products retailers. On Sept. 14 and 15, the live online event allowed attendees to visit" exhibiting companies, take advantage of show specials, attend on-demand seminars and chat live with other participants.

For a small store owner, I haven't been able to attend any of the big shows because of finances," said De Linda Brady, owner of The Healing Garden. Having this virtual show was nice because I was able to keep my store open and tend to my customers all while attending the virtual show. I found companies I didnt know about and have already placed an order."

As content manager for a natural foods grocery store this was a great experience," said Angel Vargas, events and partnership marketing manager at Sprouts Farmers Market. I was able to ask questions and learn more about the products and industry without feeling rushed or distracted like you do at a physical expo."

Retail attendees included GNC, Whole Foods Market, Hi Health, The Vitamin Shoppe, Super Supplements, and hundreds of independents such as Akins Natural Foods, Clarks Nutrition, Martindales Natural Foods and Vitamin Cottage.

Retailers downloaded more than 4,500 pieces of product literature from exhibitors, engaged in more than 2,000 live 1-on-1 and group chats, requested more than 1,000 product samples, and bought product at show specials during the two-day event.

Exhibitors and sponsors also praised this first-ever online event. This was a win-win for exhibitors and retailers who attended the show because of the minimal cost involved and the opportunity to significantly drive sales," said Mark Becker, director of advertising and communications at Jarrow Formulas. The entire format of the show was innovative and cutting edge. Plus, communication with all the attendees was effortless. Additionally, this show was very well received by our national field sales team and our accounts who were very receptive to this sales opportunity and the virtual show specials that were offered. There was a steady stream of orders during this great two-day event."

Many retailers told me they thought it was great because they could get the deals without having to leave their store," said Betsy Bullman, Northern sales representative, Fungi Perfect, LLC. Sales were spurred from the show, and many leads were generated. It was fun chatting with people, and 'seeing' retailers I have worked with online as well."

The virtual event exhibit floor featured 30 exhibitors including sponsors Peter Gilhams Natural Vitality, Natures Plus and Seventh Generation. Exhibit booths offered show specials, product literature, videos, free samples, contests, and live private and group chats. The virtual event also offered free on-demand seminars by speakers such as Dr. Michael Murray, Dr. Hyla Cass, American Botanical Councils Mark Blumenthal, and attorney Anthony Young.

This is a game-changing event for the natural products industry," said Jodi Rich, publisher of Natural Products Marketplace. The convenience, low cost, efficiency and ROI for both attendees and exhibitors sets a high standard, and we look forward to delivering an even better virtual event next time around."

The virtual event will be available online for 90 days, and inquiries about getting involved in future virtual events should be directed to Jodi Rich at [email protected] or (480) 990-1101 ext. 1038.