European Private Label Awards 2026 – Winners Announced

Why It Matters

The results underline private‑label brands as key growth drivers for grocery retailers, offering differentiated, high‑margin alternatives to national brands. Recognition of sustainability and health‑focused products signals shifting consumer preferences across the European market.

Key Takeaways

• Conad leads awards with four category wins
• Aldi Nord wins in personal care and snacking categories
• Sustainable packaging highlighted in REMA 1000 refill award
• Coop Basmati rice achieves SRP certification, reduces plastic
• Judges evaluate innovation, presentation, taste across private‑label range

Pulse Analysis

Private‑label brands have moved from price‑only propositions to strategic assets, and the 2026 European Private Label Awards illustrate that evolution. By rewarding products on innovation, presentation and taste, the awards highlight how retailers are leveraging store brands to fill gaps left by national manufacturers, especially in categories like beverages, sauces and personal care. The diverse roster of winners—from Conad’s almond cream to REMA 1000’s fragrance‑free detergent—demonstrates that European shoppers now expect quality, variety and convenience from private labels, mirroring trends seen in the broader FMCG sector.

Sustainability and health are the dominant narratives among this year’s winners. REMA 1000’s refillable hand‑soap earned a Packaging Excellence Award, while Coop’s Basmati rice achieved SRP certification and switched to paper packaging, cutting plastic use by over eight tonnes. Products such as Conad’s premium tonic water, Billa’s high‑fruit jam, and the vegan‑friendly Coop Falafel reflect a clear consumer shift toward clean‑label, low‑additive formulations. The emphasis on innovative processing—freeze‑dried fruits, sous‑vide pork shank, and high‑protein wraps—shows retailers investing in R&D to differentiate their private‑label portfolios.

For retailers, the awards provide a benchmark for product development and a marketing lever to promote award‑winning items. Manufacturers partnering with grocery chains can capitalize on the credibility conferred by these accolades to negotiate shelf space and premium pricing. Looking ahead, the continued focus on eco‑friendly packaging, functional nutrition and premium taste experiences will likely drive further private‑label expansion, compelling both established and emerging players to innovate faster in order to capture market share across Europe.