PLMA Shares 2026 Board Of Directors, Executive Committee

Why It Matters

The refreshed leadership brings deep supplier expertise that will shape private‑label strategy, trade‑show programming, and market‑wide innovation as the sector expands rapidly.

Key Takeaways

• Mark Cheney appointed PLMA chairperson for 2026 term
• Executive committee adds Anthony Biggers and Lauren McNamara
• Board includes members from Huhtamaki, Sofidel America, Refresco
• Leadership spans 2026‑27 and 2026‑29 terms
• PLMA guides 5,200+ members across global private‑label market

Pulse Analysis

PLMA’s new board signals a strategic shift for the private‑label ecosystem, which has been growing at double‑digit rates in the United States and abroad. By installing seasoned executives from food‑processing powerhouses—Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Simmons Pet Food, and SunOpta—the association ensures that its governance reflects the supply‑chain realities of both traditional grocery and emerging e‑commerce channels. This alignment is crucial as retailers increasingly rely on store brands to boost margins and meet consumer demand for value and sustainability.

The composition of the board also underscores PLMA’s commitment to geographic and category diversity. Members hail from packaging (Huhtamaki), paper products (Sofidel America), beverage distribution (Refresco), and snack innovation (Monarca Snacks, FedUp Foods). Such breadth equips the association to address regulatory trends, such as labeling reforms and sustainability mandates, while fostering cross‑category collaborations at its flagship trade shows in Chicago and Amsterdam. The extended 2026‑29 terms provide continuity for long‑term initiatives like Store Brands Month, which aims to elevate consumer perception of private labels.

For industry stakeholders, the leadership refresh offers a clear signal that PLMA will continue to be a catalyst for growth and resilience. Executives can expect enhanced educational programs, more data‑driven insights, and stronger advocacy on policy issues that affect private‑label manufacturers. As the sector’s market share approaches 20% of total retail sales, the association’s direction will influence pricing strategies, product innovation pipelines, and the overall competitive landscape. Companies that engage proactively with PLMA’s new board are likely to gain early access to emerging trends and partnership opportunities.