Ari Goldsmith
Senior Director of Marketing
KeHE Distributors
Naperville, Ill.
What does your job entail?
I am responsible for events and shows, branding, publications, public relations and other marketing activities for KeHE Distributors, which provides marketing, merchandising and distribution services.
Do you have an educational background in planning meetings and events?
My education is from the University of Illinois in advertising and marketing. Event planning has been a component of every role I have had in my career, which I enjoy.
Has KeHE Distributors previously held a meeting in Indianapolis?
Yes, we have had one of our regional shows, KeHE Natural Spring Show (formerly known as Customer Appreciation Weekends) in Indy the past few years at the JW Marriott. We are changing that show, due to its outstanding demand, and expanding it to multiple hotels and the convention center. In addition, the KeHE Holiday & Product Innovation Show is moving from Chicago to Indy in June 2016.
Could you tell me a little more about these meetings?
Right now we have two different meetings planned in Indianapolis. The seasonally-focused, KeHE Natural Spring Show in April 2015 is for connecting our suppliers to natural food retailers. In June 2016 and 2019, The KeHE Holiday & Product Innovation Show will be in Indy, which focuses on the busy fourth quarter season with all four served channels—chain grocery, independent, grocery, natural food stores and niche specialty stores.
What first brought your attention to Indianapolis?
We have a distribution center and many customers that are within an hour (or so) drive to Indy. The proximity was what first got us there.
What about Indianapolis makes it an ideal place for groups to meet?
We evaluate cities and venues across the country for overall cost, overall accessibility, and overall convention friendliness. Indy scored high on our list with the number of hotel rooms, convention hall flexibility and ease to travel to and from the city for our attendees.
Would you consider holding another meeting or event in Indianapolis?
Yes, we are very excited about a strong future partnership with Indy.