Attendees consistently rave about the CGA Strategic Conference, calling it the most productive and enjoyable networking event of the year. This conference seamlessly combines dynamic educational sessions, high-energy business meetings, and laid-back social gatherings to foster genuine conversations and quality time with peers.
Start your conference experience on Sunday with a round of golf at The Illuminators tournament at the stunning Mission Hills Country Club, a signature Palm Springs course. That evening, join us for our lively Opening Experience and Opening Reception, followed by a relaxing After Hours Social event.
Throughout the conference, daily breakfast and lunch gatherings offer ample opportunities to connect on the show floor. Don’t miss Monday evening’s reception, where you can mingle with industry peers in a fun and relaxed setting.
We’ve listened to your feedback and made some exciting changes! Be sure to check out the Emerging Brands Pitch Contest, now taking center stage during Tuesday’s luncheon.
By the end of the CGA Strategic Conference, you’ll leave with fresh ideas, valuable business contacts, and a renewed enthusiasm for the grocery industry.
Make sure you experience these incredible events!
The Illuminators Golf Tournament
Sunday, September 29, 2024
7:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Looking for an enjoyable and meaningful way to spend your Sunday morning in Palm Springs? Join us for a round of golf at one of the city’s premier courses while supporting a great cause. The Illuminators are hosting the tournament, featuring generous tee prizes, on-course contests, and a delicious lunch spread. All proceeds go towards The Illuminators Education Foundation and Scholarship Program.
The Opening Experience
Sunday, September 29, 2024
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Start your CGA Strategic Conference experience with a bang at our signature Opening Experience. This engaging session will set the tone for the rest of the conference and provide you with valuable insights and inspiration to drive your business forward. Make sure to join us for this must-attend event!
Opening Reception
Sunday, September 29, 2024
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
The CGA Strategic Conference Opening Reception brings together California’s diverse grocery industry for a rare gathering. This is the perfect opportunity to catch up with colleagues, reconnect with familiar faces, and make new contacts. Enjoy delicious heavy appetizers, refreshing drinks, and great company as you catch up with colleagues, meet new friends, and expand your network.
After Hours Social
Sunday, September 29, 2024
8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Following CGA’s signature Opening Reception, unwind at the CGA Strategic Conference’s After Hours Social. Mingle with your peers and make new connections while enjoying the beautiful outdoor patio and pool deck at the Renaissance Palm Springs Resort. With refreshing hosted beverages and a lively atmosphere, you won’t want to miss this spirited networking event.
Opening Remarks & Conference General Session
Monday, September 30, 2024
8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Get ready to be inspired! Hear from industry leaders including CGA President & CEO Ron Fong, CGA Board Chair Lynn Melillo, and The Illuminators Headlite Subriana Pierce as they share their insights on the state of the industry. Remarks will be followed by a captivating General Session presentation that will leave you energized and ready to take on new challenges.
Enterprise Risk Protection Executive Summit
Monday, September 30, 2024
10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Join our dedicated loss prevention, safety, and risk management professionals for a specialized program tailored to the grocery industry. Gain expert insights and guidance on the latest trends and strategies in critical areas like shrink and fraud prevention, technology and cybercrime, and employee safety best practices. This session is designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to protect your grocery business effectively.
Independent Grocers Forum
Monday, September 30, 2024
3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
The Independent Grocers Forum is where the best and brightest of California’s independent operators come together to learn from one another, share insights, and engage in lively discussions about the industry’s latest trends and best practices. With plenty of opportunities to network and participate in vendor presentations, this is the perfect setting to connect with like-minded professionals and build lasting relationships.
CGA Silent Disco & The Illuminators Special Event
Monday, September 30, 2024
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
After a productive day of meetings, it is time to unwind at the evening reception with the CGA Silent Disco. Grab a friend and your wireless headphones, pick your genre of choice, and move to the hits like no one’s watching! With three different channels to choose from, you’ll have the power to tailor your evening to your own musical tastes. Palm Springs DJ James Gonzalez will be spinning your favorite country, R&B, and classic rock tunes. Premium beverages complete this entertaining evening reception.
Golden State Summit
Tuesday, October 1, 2024
7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
There’s no place like the Golden State—especially when it comes to doing business. To help you navigate the food and grocery landscape in the world’s fifth largest economy, our Golden State Summit will explore California’s unique grocery market and consumers. Led by subject experts, sessions will unpack the state’s population and demographic shifts, the evolving retail environment and store formats, attitudes toward new technology, and emerging consumer trends and preferences. These insights will equip brands and retailers with knowledge to thrive in the California market.
Moderated by retail consultant Michael Sansolo, the summit will consist of four engaging “TED Talk” style presentations. Attendees will leave with actionable takeaways and informative forecasts to incorporate into their California playbooks.
Emerging Brands Pitch
Tuesday, October 1, 2024
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Get ready to elevate your brand like never before! Participate in the Emerging Brands Pitch Contest, the ultimate platform to showcase your product and make waves in the California market. This event is set to take center stage on the big stage, putting your brand in the spotlight it truly deserves.
