Brand Alignment Opportunity Retail alignment opportunity: Large brands and retailers increasingly require SQF-certified suppliers or addenda to audits. The recent collaboration with McDonald's produce audits via NSF and the SQF Unites events indicate retailer-led demand for compatible certification. Use this to target retailers and their supplier ecosystems with SQF onboarding and upgrade packages, emphasizing global recognition and streamlined audits.

Edition 10 Upgrade Edition 10 upgrade cycle creates services demand: Announcement of SQF Edition 10 in 2025 with audits in 2026 opens opportunities for training, gap analyses, migration support, and system enhancements. Propose a bundled offering for current clients to upgrade ahead of audits, including readiness assessments and conversion services, with expanded scope to food safety and quality controls.

Leadership Growth Leadership growth signals expansion in partnerships and commercial reach: New VP of Business Development and Director of Financial Planning indicate ongoing investment in growth. Leverage this momentum to propose channel partnerships, co-branded training programs, and expanded market outreach to mid-size suppliers seeking certification to access major customers.

Scholarship Pipeline Scholarship program reveals a funnel of potential customers and training demand: The 2025-2026 Food Safety Auditing Scholarship program awarded 19 scholarships. Approach recipients and partner organizations with paid sponsorships for training and certification services, turning funded trainees into certified SQF suppliers.

Global Demand Global demand for independent food safety certification supports growth across regions and channels: SQFI operates a global program with retailer and regulatory alignment. Target export-focused producers, co-packers, and distributors with onboarding, auditing readiness, and multi-site certification offerings to accelerate adoption.