Path to Purchase Institute Names Top Merch Display Designers

The Chicago-based Path to Purchase Institute, a sister brand of Progressive Grocer, has revealed the finalists in its 2016 Design of the Times competition, which celebrates the most effective in-store activations, retail displays and marketing campaigns of the year.

In all, judges selected 130 finalists, which can be viewed here, from nearly 300 entries that cover supermarket/grocery, convenience, drug, mass merchandise and several other channels. Final judging to determine bronze, silver, gold, platinum and the "Best of Times" awards will take place Sept. 20 during the Path to Purchase Expo at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill. Winners will be announced at a reception and ceremony the following day.

The Design of the Times Gallery, connected to the show floor, will showcase the merchandise displays and mimic an in-store setting. Attendees will see industry-leading retail activations, and judges will closely interact with them before casting final scores.

Design of the Times Awards Reception & Ceremony tickets can be purchased when registering for the Path to Purchase Expo. The ceremony is sponsored by Great Northern Instore, Menasha, SellCheck and United Displaycraft.