INDA has recruited an Walmart executive for the keynote speech at its 10th annula World of Wipes (WOW) conference. Joe Quinn, senior director of public affairs and government relations, will  speak about how the world’s largest retailer is supporting U.S. manufacturers of consumer products, sharing his perspective on Walmart’s U.S. Manufacturing Initiative and discussin how the retailer is working with companies to on-shore manufacturing, grow sales of U.S.-made products, source locally and comply with INDA’s Code of Practice for labeling wipes.
 
WOW 2016 will be held at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers, opening with a reception on June 7, followed by the conference, tabletop displays, and networking opportunities, June 8-10. The event has historically attraced the largest number of wipes industry professionals from the entire wipes value chain.
 
INDA is expecting a repeat performance to last year’s event, which drew over 500 people to Atlanta and surpassed all prior WOW conferences.
 
“Walmart is the largest retailer of wipes and hearing its perspectives on the supply chain will be of great interest to our industry and members,” says INDA President Dave Rousse. “We are expecting a large and positive response to the keynote presentation by Joe Quinn and the other valuable presentations throughout the entire conference. This quality content enables WOW to continue to grow in importance to all participants in the wipes industry.” 
 
Another key presentation will be from Doug Petkus, senior vice president, Corporate Practice, Ketchum Inc. on Crisis Management, a challenge for brand owners when an ingredient or preservative creates an issue in the consumer’s view.
 
Interest is expected to build around the program that includes the latest in trends and statistics, flushability, disinfecting and industrial wipes, skin care/facial wipes, flavors and fragrances, and preferences of Millennial consumers.