FMItech

Harness meaningful dialogue, exploration and problem-solving with technology solutions within the food retail space. Take part in focused, private business exchanges, learn cutting-edge solutions, and hear from early-stage startups tackling what's next in grocery.

FMItech is dedicated to topics such as e-commerce, customer experience, inventory management, automation strategies and much more.

FMItech Exchanges

These B2B meetings provide direct access to technology service providers delivering innovative food industry solutions. Held in 20-minute, pre-scheduled sessions, the exchanges offer up to 20 opportunities to connect with multiple partners efficiently. FMI manages the scheduling process, but companies are responsible for securing appointments and setting agendas. FMI cannot guarantee confirmed appointments.

FMItech Pitches

Through our pitch competition, three early-stage startups are invited to FMI Midwinter to showcase their cutting edge tech.

Meet This Year's Winner: Swish

2026 FMItech Pitch Finalists

This year, our panel of judges reviewed more than 25 submissions from companies driving efficiency, shopper engagement, and sustainability in food retail. The following six rose to the top for tackling real challenges, from streamlining operations to redefining shopper connections, they showed how technology can power the grocery industry forward.

Finalists

These three companies will take the stage at the FMItech Pitch Competition Finalist Session at the Midwinter Executive Conference on Wednesday, January 21, from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. PT. After the presentations, attendees will vote to select one winner, who will then appear at the General Session on Friday morning, January 23, 2026.

BetterBasket helps retailers price more precisely. By applying data to pricing, promotions and assortment, it helps grocers respond faster to market changes while maintaining shopper trust and profitability.

Genuin brings short-form video storytelling into retailers’ own digital channels, turning online browsing into community and connection. The platform helps retailers and brands inspire discovery and loyalty in a space they control.

Swish powers targeted, automated programmatic sampling by placing full-size products into consumers’ online orders. It transforms merchandise into media, bringing transparency, efficiency, and measurable results that legacy sampling has never delivered.

Semi-Finalists

Gander connects shoppers with markdown products in real time, reducing food waste and improving margins. Retailers using Gander report lower shrink, higher foot traffic and stronger sustainability results.

SYNQ Technology bridges the digital and physical store by connecting associates, shoppers and devices. Its Frontline Hero platform supports digital ordering, real-time assistance, curbside pickup and secure locker systems that improve service and reduce friction.

Vallum gives retailers a way to manage and measure how digital tools are being used across their business, ensuring consistency, compliance and performance.