Oct 19, 2022
Six Start-Ups will be Recognized and Compete at FMI Midwinter Executive Conference 

ARLINGTON, VA – FMI – The Food Industry Association today announces its FMItech Pitch Competition to showcase food retail technology start-up solutions. After contestants provide a three-minute video that is reviewed by the FMItech at Midwinter Advisory Council, six top-scoring start-up companies will vie for first place at the industry’s premier event, FMI Midwinter Executive Conference, highlighting their solutions to industry leaders and an expert panel of judges.  

“Retailers were accelerating their investments across a wide range of technologies even before the pandemic began – and many of those initiatives paid off by enhancing overall capabilities,” FMI Vice President, Industry Relations, Doug Baker said. “Technology solutions are warranted as 83% of our members expect their technology expenses to increase this year, with nearly one-third citing significant increases.” 

Start-ups will share their expertise in areas such as process automation and robotics; AI-targeted loyalty and shopper behavior monitoring; digital receipts; and coupons, all to assist retailers in achieving business outcomes and meet consumer expectations. 

Baker continued, “This competition aligns with our members’ needs for creating operational and financial efficiencies in addition to enhancing the grocery shopping experience for their consumers.” 

The 2023 FMItech Pitch Competition is open for submissions and closes November 7, 2022. Qualifying companies with less than $3 million in funding will provide a three-minute video pitch for an expert set of judges. Ultimately, six companies will receive one FMI Midwinter registration, one FMItech private meeting tabletop, and a five-minute speaking slot at FMItech.