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Shelf Confidence is a podcast brought to you by the Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association that focuses on trends and innovation in the food and beverage retail industry.
66 Episodes
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In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we dive into the evolving world of workforce development in the convenience store industry. Join Jeff Kahler, CEO & President of Ready Training Online (RTO), Paul Rankin, Vice President of Retail Marketing at Country Fair, and Steve Seymor, Director of Personal, at Country Fair. As they share how their organizations teamed up to elevate training for frontline staff. From launching custom e-learning platforms to building a culture of development, ...
In this special episode of Shelf Confidence, we're joined by William Brock, President and CEO of Straub Brewery, one of the oldest and most iconic breweries in the country. With over 150 years of brewing history in the heart of Pennsylvania, Straub has remained proudly independent, family-owned, and deeply connected to its community. We’ll dive into the legacy of the brewery, the unique challenges and opportunities facing brewers in Pennsylvania, and what makes Straub’s approach to bee...
Wholesalers are the backbone of the food and beverage industry, yet most consumers rarely think about how products move from manufacturers to store shelves. In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we talk with Michael Gould, President of Scranton OpCo at Core-Mark, one of the largest and most established wholesale distributors in North America. Michael shares how Core-Mark has adapted through more than a century of change, what challenges and innovations are shaping the wholesale industry...
The Pennsylvania Lottery is a familiar presence in convenience stores and supermarkets across the state—but there’s more happening behind the counter than most customers realize. In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we’re joined by Executive Director Drew Svitko and Deputy Executive Director of Sales & Retail Operations Eric Grubbs to talk about how the Lottery works with retailers, what’s changing with their new system, and where proceeds actually go. We cover retailer incentives,...
In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we’re joined by three principals from Baker Tilly: Jeffrey Vrabel, Michael Milani, and Dave DuVarney. Together, they bring decades of experience across commercial strategy, mergers and acquisitions, and digital transformation. We explore how middle market businesses—especially in the food and beverage space—are navigating growth, innovation, and change. From unlocking the value of data and AI to preparing for a successful sale or acquisition, this c...
In today’s digital world, cyber threats are more advanced than ever—and no business is immune. In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we sit down with CBIZ, a leading provider of business advisory, tax, and risk management solutions, to explore how companies can protect themselves against cybercrime. From ransomware attacks to data breaches, businesses of all sizes face growing risks in an increasingly connected landscape. Our guests from CBIZ break down the biggest cybersecurity threats facing...
In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we sit down with Reza Mahmoodi, CEO and co-founder of LottoShield—a game-changing lottery management platform designed by retailers, for retailers. Reza shares how his experience running gas stations led to the idea behind LottoShield, and how the company is now helping thousands of stores across the U.S. automate inventory, prevent theft, and simplify lottery operations. We’ll dive into the real-world challenges of managing lottery sales, explore t...
In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we explore GIANT’s workforce development partnership with Central Penn College. Now in its 5th year and 6th cohort, this custom 5-week, 18-credit program is equipping GIANT’s managers with the skills to lead. We’re joined by Curtis Voelker (Central Penn), Dr. Jack Babinchak (Instructor), Anthony Amadure (GIANT), and a program alum to discuss the program’s impact, the evolution of a new 6-hour store manager course, and how other businesses can benefit. ...
In this episode of Shelf Confidence, Mitch Goldstein, Director of Sales & Customer Success at Skyhawk, discusses how electronic remote monitoring is transforming food production. Learn about the industry's biggest challenges, the power of real-time data, and the future of IoT in ensuring safety, compliance, and efficiency. Tune in for insights at the intersection of technology and food safety! #ShelfConfidence #FoodSafety #IoT #SmartTech #FoodIndustry #RemoteMonitoring #Compliance ...
In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we’re joined by Lauren Kennedy, VP of Customer Success at Upshop, to explore the evolving challenges in retail store operations. From sustainability goals to the rise of data-driven decision-making, we’ll discuss how the industry is adapting to meet the demands of modern consumers while staying competitive in a rapidly changing landscape. Tune in for expert insights on the future of retail operations! #ShelfConfidence #RetailInnovation #DataDrivenRe...
In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we chat with John Wesolowski, President of PFMA member Milazzo Industries, about navigating the unique challenges of seasonal products and the growing demand for pet-friendly, eco-conscious solutions. From the story behind their signature Qik Joe ice melt to practical winter prep tips and insights on adapting to climate change, John shares how Milazzo Industries stays ahead of the curve while keeping safety and sustainability at the forefront. Guests: Joh...
In this episode of Shelf Confidence, Guy Yehiav, President of #PFMA member SmartSense by Digi, discusses how IoT technologies are transforming food safety across the supply chain. Learn how these tools enhance monitoring, empower employees, and address challenges for businesses of all sizes while keeping up with regulatory demands. Guests: Guy Yehiav, President of SmartSense by Digi #FoodSafety #IoT #SmartTech #RetailInnovation #SupplyChain #SmartSense #Digi #PFMA #Podcast #Shel...
Join us on Shelf Confidence as we chat with Mac Bolak, Founder and CEO of Panoptyc, about how AI is transforming theft prevention in micro markets. Explore the industry's challenges, the origins of Panoptyc, and the future of AI-driven retail solutions. Guests: Mac Bolak, Founder, CEO at Panoptyc #ShelfConfidence #AI #LocalFoodRetail #PAgrocers #CommunityEngagement #SustainableRetail #FoodIndustryInsights #GroceryLeaders #ShopLocal #IndustryInnovation #theftprevention #panoptyc ...
In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we’re joined by a panel of Pennsylvania’s independent grocery leaders—Andrea Karns (Karns Quality Foods), Tom Charley (Charley Family Shop'N Save), and Seth Weaver (Weaver’s of Wellsville). Together, we discuss the unique challenges and opportunities facing independent grocers, from evolving consumer trends to sustainability and community engagement. Gain insights into how these local businesses thrive in a competitive landscape and shape the future of foo...
In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we are joined by Ben Kuethe Oaks, vice president of customer solutions and success, and Chris Thomas, vice president of public affairs, at Divert Inc. Divert is a leading impact technology company dedicated to eliminating food waste and transforming it into renewable energy. With over 6,600 partnerships across the U.S., Divert combines cutting-edge technologies with sustainable infrastructure to support environmental and social well-being. Join the convers...
In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we talk with Jon Norton, regional vice president of sales at ZeroEyes, to discuss a proactive solution for gun detection and situational awareness in the food and beverage industry. Norton explains how ZeroEyes uses AI software integrated with existing security cameras to identify visible firearms and quickly alert local law enforcement and retail staff. The conversation delves into the importance of layered security measures, the significant impact of gun...
In this episode of "Shelf Confidence," we sit down with Dave Simonetti of Wawa to explore the impactful practice of hiring employees with intellectual disabilities. Dave shares Wawa’s journey and success stories, highlighting the company's commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace. Discover how businesses can benefit from a diverse workforce and learn practical tips for creating an environment where every employee can thrive. Tune in for expert insights and actionable strategies to promo...
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In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and its latest update, FSMA 204. Join us as we sit down with Sally Robinson, vice president of strategic initiatives at Upshop, who shares her invaluable insights on how food retailers can effectively prepare for the new requirements. Robinson breaks down the critical components of FSMA 204, explaining its significance and the impact it will have on the food industry. We'll explore key changes int...
When difficult situations occur it can be stressful and downright scary. Today we have Ready Training Online on the podcast to talk about their De-escalation Training that they will be offering to PFMA Members complementary for the next 90 days. You can find this training on our website on the resource tab under the Human/Labor Resources category: https://www.pfma.org/member-resources.html Ready Training Online’s mission is to inspire and facilitate employee success through the delivery of en...
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