Local Food Trade Show

The Local Food Trade Show

Getting Ready for 2027!!

Wednesday, January 27th, 2027

Snow date, Wed 2/3/27

We are thrilled to be preparing for the 16th Local Food Trade Show, and to return again to the lovely and welcoming Russell’s Garden Center, 397 Boston Post Rd, Wayland MA. If you are a New England-based food producer with a wholesale license, a New England farm or fishery ready for wholesale, this is the event to attend. If you are a wholesale buyer looking for emergent new and innovative products, local established producers, and inspiration, this is the event to attend.

Early Bird Discounts are available into November.

Calling All the Inspired Buyers:

We are looking for inspired partners in making our food world better, for your customers, our communities, and your sales priorities. Buyers for institutions (K12, hospitals, colleges/universities, etc.), grocery and specialty stores, CSA-style programs, caterers and restaurants, distributors and food hubs, have all found the Local Food Trade Show a great resource and a lovely networking event. Early Bird Discount — FREE admission for attendees that register before November 6th.

ATTENDEE INFORMATION

ATTENDEE REGISTRATION FORM

Calling All of New England’s Innovative Producers:

We are looking for a few good farms, fisheries, food makers ready for wholesale, and looking to grow. Buyers are always looking for produce and other farm goods, local fish and meats, dairy and innovative new food products. If you are ready* to sell, this is the venue for you! Early Bird Discount — $25 OFF Exhibitor Fees for registrations before November 15th.

*Ready to sell means you have any wholesale license/permit required for your product in your state.

EXHIBITOR INFORMATION

EXHIBITOR REGISTRATION FORM

WHAT IS THE LOCAL FOOD TRADE SHOW? A networking event that connects New England food producers with wholesale buyers.

WHO IS AN ATTENDEE? All wholesale buyers! Big grocery stores and distributors, specialty food stores and specialized distributors, cafes and restaurants, K12 through college dining halls, farm stores, and CSA managers — the Trade Show is an opportunity to meet some of the best local food producers and new-to-the-scene products!

WHO IS AN EXHIBITOR? Farmers, fishing folks, food makers, and value-added producers based in New England. If you have your wholesale license* (as needed for your product and state) and are ready to grow your wholesale presence. Registration includes table and chair, promotion and wrap-around workshops, and listing in the program and opportunities to be in the Swag Bag and Raffle Prize. Additional optional costs for electricity, purchasing a program ad, and boxed lunches. You will also need to get a Temporary Food Service Permit from the town if you don’t already have one in Wayland for the 2027 Winter Season.

2027 AGENDA: Wednesday, January 27th (snow date 2/3)

8:00-9:00 am: Exhibitor Check-In, Load-In, Set-Up
9:00-10:00 am: Exhibitor Networking
10:00 am: Attendee Check-In
10:00 am: Trading Floor Opens
11:00 am: Opening Remarks
- Speakers to be determined
12:00 noon: Lunch Delivered
3:00 pm: Trading Floor Closes
3:00-4:00 pm: Exhibitor Load-out

Image of Holyoke Hummus provided by Ling Messer

Image of Wicked Bess provided by Ling Messer

Image of The Madras Flavors provided by Ling Messer

Image of Nussli118 provided by Ling Messer

BE A SPONSOR! By giving food entrepreneurs the platform to showcase their products, and buyers a venue to explore these industry-changing offerings, we are tilling the soil for a new future of food. Your sponsorship uplifts our region’s sustainable economy, while tying your organization to this crucial effort. Please join us in making the 2027 Local Food Trade Show successful! For more information, explore our Sponsorship Booklet below, and/or contact us (kerry@sbnmass.org).

2027 Sponsorship Booklet

Trade Show Workshops

All registered exhibitors have the option to participate in any/all of the following workshops. According to prior participating entrepreneurs, “Those workshops set me up to really grow. … I’ve been telling everyone about the trade show and all the support you give!” Attendees are invited to participate in workshops as well as industry experts.

1-on-1 Consultations: Wed, Jan 6th, 2027

Meet with up to four industry experts for 30 minutes, with expertise in Marketing, Sales, Finance, Legal, Food Safety, Working with Distributors, and/or Waste and Energy Reduction. Thanks to the generosity and expertise shared by area industry experts, you have the dedicated time for your business’s next steps or challenges.
This networking/educational event is VIRTUAL.
Preview Matchmaking: Wed, Jan 13th, 2027

Get a preview taste of the kinds of connections at the trade show! Buyers and exhibitors will be matched based on priorities & product, location and scale, and more. Make your time at the trade show more productive and enjoyable!
This networking event is VIRTUAL.
Perfect Your Presentation: Fri, Jan 15th, 2027

An impactful workshop about your elevator pitch, presentation, packaging, and presence. How can you make the most of the few minutes you have the ear of a buyer?
This educational event is VIRTUAL.
Wholesale 101: Pre-Contract Checklist: Wed, Jan 20th, 2027

A quick rundown of the most important numbers and information you want to know and be able to articulate before you sign a wholesale contract. Make sure that as you expand, you are doing it wisely.
This educational event is VIRTUAL.