The excitement is building as a new year begins and we can’t wait to share an incredible slate of conferences and events with you in 2025. NCG’s professional development programs for co-op staff provide a unique opportunity to connect with your peers from other co-ops around the country and to build skills to thrive in your role at your co-op.
As the big dates draw nearer, stay tuned for more details about each event, including conference agendas and registration information. You can learn more on NCG’s Events page and in the email newsletters you receive from NCG.
Here’s some great news: All NCG conferences are completely free for co-op staff to attend! The only costs to consider are travel and lodging (with a few exceptions that we’ll detail for you).
We look forward to connecting with you in person at our 2025 programs. Get ready for a year filled with learning, collaboration and inspiration!
Five Keys to GM Success (DRs only)
April 8 in Washington, D.C.
Participants in this-half day program will learn the five most important things to pay attention to as a new GM.
Spring Meeting (National meeting, DRs only)
April 9-10 in Washington, D.C.
This meeting includes industry information, updates on NCG programs, NCG’s annual member meeting, corridor time and professional development for co-op designated representatives. DRs are required to attend; travel and lodging is sponsored by NCG.
Marketing Matters
May 14-15 in Eagan, Minn.
Marketing Matters is a biennial conference for co-op staff with marketing and owner services responsibilities. The conference features sessions on key topics and trends that can support successful marketing efforts, strategies to grow sales and membership, and innovative co-op projects.
Focus on Fresh
June 24-25 in Saint Paul, Minn.
Focus on Fresh is an annual conference for fresh department staff. It provides information on key trends and current practices, and is designed to stimulate networking and collaboration between produce, food service/deli and meat/seafood departments. Focus on Fresh also features a vendor showcase, which is a tabletop buying show where attendees can engage with fresh brands and service providers. NCG pays all conference-related expenses (travel, food, lodging) for approved participants; co-ops may send up to three fresh staff per co-op.
Co+nvergence
August 14-15 in Saint Paul, Minn.
Co+nvergence is NCG’s conference for co-op promotions liaisons, grocery and wellness staff. It provides an opportunity to learn about industry trends, share ideas on operational best practices to improve center store, and celebrate our cooperative way of doing business.
Participants learn about NCG’s purchasing programs and services, develop relationships with peers, and have an opportunity to engage with hundreds of industry trade partners during our exclusive vendor showcase. Promotions liaisons are required to attend. NCG pays all conference-related expenses (travel, food, lodging) for approved participants; co-ops may send up to three grocery or wellness staff per co-op.
Five Keys to GM Success (DRs only)
September 16 in Eagan, Minn.
Participants in this-half day program will learn the five most important things to pay attention to as a new GM.
Fall Meeting (National meeting, DRs only)
September 17-18 in Eagan, Minn.
This meeting includes industry information, updates on NCG programs, corridor time and professional development for co-op designated representatives. DRs are required to attend; travel and lodging is sponsored by NCG.
Operations Conference
October 28-29 in Eagan, Minn.
The Operations Conference is a biennial conference for individuals accountable for P&L performance at individual business units or for the overall organization: store managers, operations managers and GMs. Participants gain awareness of NCG tools, services and resources that support success; establish strong peer networks with fellow attendees; and engage in professional development to help effectively manage department staff and achieve desired results.
