This was my fourth year convening the leaders shaping what comes next for the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry, and I’m proud to share that the 2026 Consumer Brands CPG Summit was our most successful yet. A record-setting number of attendees came prepared to dig into the defining issues facing our industry, using the event as a forum to navigate economic shifts, global uncertainty, digital trends and the evolving consumer.

This year, America’s 250^th anniversary provided attendees with a unique perspective on the decades of innovation that brought us to this moment, along with a hefty dose of inspiration for the growth that’s still to come. Our industry plays a consequential role in American life, supporting 22.3 million American jobs, contributing 10 percent of the U.S. GDP and delivering the products consumers rely on every day. Gatherings like the CPG Summit are more than an opportunity to exchange ideas. They’re a powerful reminder of both the opportunity and responsibility we have to anticipate change, lead the conversation and help shape an environment where the industry can continue to grow.

I’m honored that our attendees continue to choose CPG Summit as the destination for discussing what matters most to their companies, gaining insights on the political landscape ahead of the midterm elections, engaging with retailers, learning about supply chain and sustainability innovations, exploring the future of AI and more.

Something that is truly special about this event is that the conversations don’t stop when a session ends. They continue in the hallways, over dinner and throughout the workshops, providing a space for leaders to share challenges, compare experiences and hold candid discussions. It’s those informal exchanges that can foster the most meaningful insights of the week.

I’d also like to extend my gratitude to our sponsors, who made the CPG Summit possible. These partners ensure that we can keep delivering the premier experience our attendees deserve. They allow us to bring thought leaders front and center to share insights that attendees can take back to their companies and put into action, creating real impact where it matters most.

This is a pivotal moment for our industry. The world is changing rapidly and the challenges ahead are complex, but the conversations at this year’s CPG Summit reinforced what Consumer Brands already knows: attendees from C-suites across the industry are prepared to meet those challenges head-on. We’re proud to represent the CPG industry and remain committed to helping shape what’s next.

I look forward to continuing the momentum at next year’s event and reflecting on how the industry is adapting to our evolving landscape.