WGA Symposium Brings Together Industry Leaders in Austin, Texas

Networking, Inspiration, and Leadership Development Key Components of Successful Event

The latest gathering of leaders in the independent grocery industry occurred in Austin, Texas from September 17-18 with the Women Grocers of America (WGA) Symposium. The event was a blend of sessions focused on leadership development and inspirational stories, with additional opportunities for networking.

The event began on Tuesday with a session titled Your Space in the Room led by Bridgett Battles, a renowned executive presence strategist for executives and CEOs. Battles shows women how to develop a powerful presence that helps identify their signature style. In this session, Battles shared her insights on developing a powerful presence and mastering the art of effective networking.

This session was followed by Dr. Randy Ross, who spoke about the key principles and practices of a relationally rich work environment, where people bring their best to work every day. Attendees took away valuable insights on how they can build stronger relationships both personally and professionally.

The focus then turned to consumer data, which brought to the stage two experts on the topic: Meagan Nelson, SPINS and Caroline Catoe, ECRS. The two spoke about how independent grocers can remain relevant and competitive in an industry that is constantly changing. Nelson and Catoe informed attendees about the defining characteristics of millennial and gen z shoppers and practical ways to deliver a grocery experience that appeals to these key demographics.

Day one of the symposium concluded with Nathalie Estribeau sharing her insights about navigating the wine industry as a woman and what independent grocers must know about private label in the wine industry.

The second day of the symposium began with Justyne Uribe and Amanda Broan of Certco, Inc., offering a crash course on the business of selling groceries. This session was geared towards attendees newer to the industry or who have only worked in one portion of the industry.

Sarah Rivers of IGA then presented attendees with an overview of what the key elements are of a successful retail media network and why independent grocers have struggled to participate. Rivers also detailed how the retail media landscape is changing to maximize customer engagement and the shopping experience.

Haley Sammis, Instacart and Donna Zambo, Allegiance Retail Group, explored both the science and art of projecting confidence and self-assurance during a session titled Cracking the Confidence Code, inspired by the book 'The Confidence Code' by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman. This interactive session explored why even the most successful women in business, sports, and the military struggle with feelings of self-doubt. Attendees learned how they can crack the confidence code and continue to enhance their careers.

Creating work-life harmony is never easy. That is why Jackie LaPointe, PepsiCo, led a session titled Finding Your Rhythm, which guided attendees through the process of understanding what harmony looks like for each person.

These were just a few of the incredible sessions at the WGA Symposium. If you're interested in joining WGA, you can join as a benefit of your NGA Membership. As a member of NGA, all female employees in your organization are eligible to join WGA at no additional cost. You can fill out the interest form here.

We look forward to seeing you later this month at NGA's next event: the Executive Conference & Public Policy Summit!

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