On the last weekend of September, CGA kicked off the first Gather California in Rancho Mirage. This reimagined conference brought the California grocery community together at a premium resort location for three days of connection, productive business meetings, and fresh insights. We hope those who attended feel more connected than ever to grocery peers and prepared to thrive in the California market.
In addition to our brand-new venue, our reimagined event featured several new events and connective networking experiences, including the Collaboration Kickoff, DIY Networking Adventure, and Dine For A Cause. The popular Emerging Brands Pitch Contest made its return for the fourth year, with Maple Pop! taking home first place. Our General Session program featured an insightful panel discussion between President of Food 4 Less/Foods Co. Kendra Doyel, CGA Board Chair and Chief Administrative Officer of North State Grocery, Inc. Michel LeClerc, and author and political strategist Mike Madrid about what makes doing business in California unique.
Keynote speakers Brent Gleeson, Victoria LaBalme and Chris Failla offered their perspectives on leadership and adaptability through our evolving industry over a series of education sessions. Though we made several changes to this year’s event, Gather also reprised our crowd-favorite Independent Grocers Forum and Enterprise Risk Protection Executive Summit.
Let’s Gather Again
Thank you to all of those who were a part of the first Gather California. Save the date for the next Gather California, taking place September 27-29, 2026 at the Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort and Spa in Rancho Mirage, California. We can’t wait to gather again!
Visit gathercalifornia.com for more information.