From The January/February 2003 Issue of Natural Grocery Buyer

Expo West: Product Paradise

More than 800 new natural and organic products—everything from high-end skin care to gourmet snacks—will be introduced at Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, Calif., March 6-9.

The trade show, the largest in the natural products industry, will have 2,300 booths featuring products from more than 1,700 companies. Exhibitors include organic, natural and specialty food producers; personal care, dietary supplement, natural living and green building manufacturers; raw material suppliers; and complementary and alternative health care. The show floor opens March 7.

A show floor highlight will be a 2,000-square-foot Store of the Future showcasing the latest merchandising strategies for natural products, trending information and back-room technology including inventory and demographic systems. The store will feature nontoxic, earth-friendly, sustainable building products and finishes.

The personal care plaza will have four spa stations for manicures, facials, makeovers, foot care and a fifth station for people who simply want to relax and rejuvenate.

The education program begins March 6; seminars include Organic Regs vs. Market Realities, Insights into the Emerging U.S. Hispanic Shopper and Label Mania. Erin Brockovich, the inspiration for the Oscar-winning movie that bears her name, will deliver the keynote speech.

Brockovich is credited with securing $333 million on behalf of 600 residents of Hinkley, Calif., whose drinking water was contaminated with Chromium 6. At the time of the award in 1996, it was the largest legal settlement in U.S. history. At Expo West, she will discuss the role that politics and business play in environmental issues and how to win life's struggles. Her talk begins at 9 a.m., March 8.

For more information about Natural Products Expo West, visit www.expowest.com.