The Sales and Merchandising Agencies Working Group is made up of senior SMA managers and was established to represent outsourcing organisations on key issues affecting the grocery industry and its suppliers.
The group effectively represents the SMA perspective within FGC and provides a forum to discuss and resolve SMA industry issues. It has representatives on the key FGC committees so SMA issues are considered in decision-making processes. It meets independently to discuss issues that are unique to their environment.
The group also sets a foundation for developing communication and educating the wider industry on the role and value of SMAs and an interface to support the benefits of outsourcing to New Zealand manufacturers and brand owners.
Typical focus is on retailer relationships, health and safety, and key industry trends. It continues to work on key issues facing SMAs in the rapidly changing retailer environment.
Qualification as an SMA is any company providing contracted sales, promotion and merchandising services to multiple manufacturers or brand owners.