Friday, October 13, 2023

October 2023 Supplier Update

On October 17th from 2 – 3pm EST, CEO Sandy Douglas and I will host our first Supplier Success Series webinar.  We will kick-off this series discussing our annual supplier survey, changes we’re making to better serve our suppliers, and our Q4 earnings.  We invite you to join us by filling out this registration page.  The final prompt on the registration page invites you to submit questions for the discussion.  We look forward to our opportunity to connect.

Accounts Payable Best Practices

UNFI provides backup for each deduction that comes from issued checks.  This backup is automatically sent to our contacts for your organization we have on file.  It is imperative that you keep this information up to date.  We suggest creating an e-mail alias for your business where this is sent.  We also encourage you to have backup sent to your broker, if applicable.  To update and/or add to your list of recipients, please reach out to APVendorMaster@unfi.com.

There has been a recent uptick in backup requests sent to our DeductionsBackup@unfi.com alias that has resulted in a backlog.  By keeping your contacts current, ensuring initial backup e-mails are not sent to your spam folder, and including broker contacts, your team will be best positioned to address deductions questions.

2024 UNFI Selling Shows

Starting in February 2024, UNFI Selling Shows will cater to both natural and conventional supplier and customer channels, emphasizing our unique value.  This transformation involves a wall-to-wall format and two seasonal themes across four regional locations, with the following objectives:

  • Simplifying show types and enhancing supplier opportunities
  • Providing an exceptional attendee experience tailored to regional and industry needs
  • Showcasing a comprehensive supplier representation and UNFI's category expertise
  • Elevating overall sales through exclusive opportunities and cost-effective solutions

UNFI Selling Shows remain a distinctive platform for showcasing product and brand promotion.  Both in-person and virtual options allow our customers to explore emerging products and engage with established brands to secure the best cost of goods and remain competitive in the market.  Our shows offer invaluable opportunities.  Don’t miss out, register here today.

Lightning Deals

UNFI is thrilled to announce Lightning Deals, a new program centered around getting your deals to retailers very quickly.  There is no charge to participate beyond a unique two-week off invoice promotion to UNFI.  Deals will be promoted on the myUNFI Shopping Portal for instant ordering.  Participating customers are given a two-week promotional pass to these deals.  This quick turnaround program can help you drive turns and increase sales quickly.

For more information on Lightning Deals, review this info sheet and reach out to your SRM.

Supplier and Vendor Code of Conduct

UNFI has recently updated its Supplier and Vendor Code of Conduct.  Please take some time to familiarize yourself with this document.

Supplier Merchandising Management (SMM) Updates

An updated list of UNFI SMMs, contact info, line, and category assignments can be found here on UNFI’s Supplier Support Site.

Procurement Team Updates

An updated list of UNFI Procurement Team contacts and assignments can be found here on UNFI’s Supplier Support Site.

Accounts Payable (AP) Updates

An updated list of AP contacts and assignments can be found here on UNFI’s Supplier Support Site.