Governor Sherrill and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) have officially announced the recipients of the NJ World Cup Community Initiative — a $5 million grant program designed to spread the energy of FIFA World Cup 2026™ beyond MetLife Stadium and into the neighborhoods, downtowns, and communities across New Jersey.

Thirty-four organizations were selected from a highly competitive applicant pool to host official fan experiences, viewing events, cultural activations, and community celebrations during the 2026 tournament.

What Is the NJ World Cup Community Initiative?

The NJ World Cup Community Initiative was built on a simple idea: the economic and cultural benefits of hosting a World Cup shouldn’t stop at the stadium. By funding community-led events and fan activations across the state, New Jersey is investing in its towns, visitor corridors, and tourism ecosystem at a scale that hasn’t been seen before.

The $5 million fund was distributed across 34 selected organizations, each receiving resources to plan, market, and execute meaningful World Cup-themed events for both residents and incoming visitors.

Why It Matters for New Jersey Tourism

FIFA World Cup 2026™ is expected to be the largest sporting event ever hosted on U.S. soil. Millions of international and domestic fans will move through New Jersey — through its airports, transit hubs, hotels, and downtowns — over the course of the tournament.

For New Jersey’s tourism community, this isn’t just a sporting event. It’s weeks of sustained high-intent travelers, many experiencing the state for the first time. The grant program ensures there’s a statewide network of funded, official activations ready to welcome them wherever they land.

See the Full List of Grant Recipients

The complete official list of all 34 recipients — including organization names, event details, and locations — has been published by Choose New Jersey.

Reaching the Fans Coming to New Jersey This Summer

With 34 funded events spread across the state and millions of fans in transit, the challenge for every destination organization and tourism brand in New Jersey is the same: how do you reach those fans before they decide where to go?

VSTR Media Partners operates the most comprehensive travel media screen network in the country — with screens in airports, train stations, transit hubs, and visitor centers across the Northeast. That means reaching fans the moment they land at Newark, pass through Penn Station, or step into a New Jersey visitor center, with your destination already in front of them.

• 500+ screens across the Northeast corridor
• Airports, transit hubs, and visitor centers in key NJ markets
• Targeted by region, market, and traveler profile

Whether you’re one of the 34 grant recipients promoting your event or a New Jersey DMO building summer awareness, VSTR puts you in front of travelers at exactly the right moment.

In today’s world of savvy, health-conscious shoppers, a label alone just doesn’t cut it. People want to know what they’re eating, where it came from, and how it impacts their bodies. They want that information clearly, concisely, and conveniently.

This is where digital displays come in. These in-store communication tools are transforming the grocery aisle, offering a dynamic and engaging way to provide shoppers with the information they crave while enhancing their overall shopping experience.

Why Labels Fall Short (and Why That’s a Big Deal)

Traditional food labels, despite their good intentions, are failing us in a few key ways:

• Information Overload: It’s not just about tiny fonts anymore. Labels are overloaded with information, often presented in a way that’s difficult to understand. One study might say an additive is fine, while another raises concerns. The term “organic” can have different meanings depending on the certifying body. No wonder consumers are confused! In fact, a study by Label Insight found that 95% of consumers are confused about what’s in their food. This confusion is especially prevalent among those most concerned about healthy eating, who are often the most diligent label readers. Digital displays can cut through the noise, providing clear, concise information that empowers shoppers to make informed choices.
  
• “Hidden” Ingredients: Labeling loopholes allow for ingredients to be disguised under broad terms like “natural flavors” or listed under different names depending on the brand. This lack of transparency erodes consumer trust. Digital displays can counter this by providing detailed breakdowns of ingredients, even visualizing the production process. Imagine a screen showing the exact components of that “natural flavor,” with visuals or even videos of how it’s made. Suddenly, it’s not so mysterious anymore.
  

Sensory Limitations: Labels rely solely on sight. But what about people with visual impairments? Or those with dyslexia who struggle to process dense text? Digital displays can offer accessibility options like audio descriptions, larger fonts, adjustable contrast, and even QR codes that link to more detailed information online, ensuring everyone has access to the information they need.

Digital Displays: Not Just Facts, But Stories

Digital displays are more than just bigger, fancier labels. They can do so much more!

• Brand Storytelling: Imagine a display for a local farm’s produce. Instead of just listing facts, it shows photos of the farmers, their sustainable practices, maybe even a video of the farm in action. Suddenly, that tomato isn’t just a tomato; it’s part of a story, a connection that builds trust and loyalty in a way a label never could. A study by Nielsen found that 60% of consumers are more likely to buy from brands that have a strong story.
  
• Interactive “Journeys”: Let’s get creative! Picture a “build your own salad” display. As the shopper selects each ingredient, the screen shows its origin, nutritional info, maybe even a fun fact. It’s engaging, educational, and empowers healthy choices. Research by the International Food Information Council Foundation found that 77% of consumers are interested in learning more about where their food comes from.
  

Gamification: Who said learning about food has to be boring? A quiz on “spot the hidden sugar” in common products, with rewards or coupons for correct answers. This makes it fun for kids and adults alike, turning the grocery aisle into an educational experience. A study by the University of Colorado found that gamification can increase engagement by up to 60%.

Beyond Transparency: The Grocery Store as a Hub

Digital displays can do more than just inform; they can transform the entire shopping experience:

• Community Building: A display showcasing local events, farmers’ markets, cooking classes using in-season produce… The store becomes a hub for healthy living, not just a place to buy groceries. A survey by Accenture found that 75% of consumers are more likely to shop at stores that are involved in their community.
  
• Loyalty Programs 2.0: Forget generic coupons. Link displays to personalized offers based on purchase history. “Since you bought those apples, here’s a deal on this delicious apple pie recipe kit…” It’s targeted, relevant, and builds loyalty. A study by Bond Brand Loyalty found that 73% of consumers are more likely to be loyal to brands that personalize their experience.
  

“Ethical Aisles”: Imagine a section dedicated to sustainably sourced products, highlighted by a display explaining the criteria: fair trade, eco-friendly packaging, etc. This appeals to values-driven shoppers and positions the store as a leader in ethical consumerism. A study by Nielsen found that 73% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products.

Real-World Results: When Displays Do More Than Tell

Let’s look at how some stores are already using digital displays to great effect:

• Whole Foods Market: Their digital shelf labels go beyond the basics, showing sourcing details, certifications, even customer reviews. This has led to a 10% increase in sales of featured products, according to a report by SES-imagotag.
  
• Kroger: Their interactive kiosks offer personalized recommendations and recipe ideas. This has not only boosted sales but also reduced the number of customer service calls by 15%, freeing up staff for more complex tasks.
  

Unexpected Successes: A small, independent store uses displays to highlight staff picks, creating a sense of personal connection with shoppers. This has led to a 5% increase in basket size for featured products. A regional chain has a “meet the farmer” video series playing on their screens, building trust and showcasing local partnerships. This has resulted in a 10% increase in sales of locally sourced products.

The Future is Now: Tech That Wows (Responsibly)

Forget those sci-fi visions of the future. The technology to revolutionize the grocery aisle is already here:

• Augmented Reality (AR) Overlays: Imagine shoppers using their phones to scan a product, and an AR overlay appears, showing where it was grown on a map, its carbon footprint, or even how to cook it. This takes engagement to a whole new level. A study by Retail Perceptions found that 61% of shoppers prefer stores that offer AR experiences.
  
• Smart Shelves: These aren’t just a concept anymore. Shelves that automatically update pricing and product information based on real-time inventory and demand. No more frustrating “out of stock” situations or price discrepancies. A report by McKinsey & Company estimates that smart shelves can reduce out-of-stock situations by up to 50%.
  
• The “Phygital” Blend: Online shopping has changed our expectations. Displays can bridge the gap: scan an item to see online reviews, compare prices with other stores, or even order out-of-stock items for delivery. A study by Harvard Business Review found that omnichannel shoppers spend 40% more than single-channel shoppers.
  

Ethical Considerations: With all this data collection comes responsibility. Displays should clearly communicate how customer data is used, prioritize privacy, and avoid creepy tracking. Transparency builds trust, while shady practices erode it. A survey by Pew Research Center found that 81% of Americans feel they have little or no control over the data companies collect about them.

Conclusion

The grocery aisle is evolving, and digital displays are leading the charge. They’re not just about replacing labels; they’re about empowering consumers, enhancing the shopping experience, and building a more transparent, engaging, and sustainable future for the grocery industry.

So, ditch the outdated posters and embrace the power of digital. Your shoppers (and your bottom line) will thank you for it.

Who is this new consumer?

They’re health-conscious, scrutinizing every ingredient and label with the intensity of a detective. They’re skeptical, questioning marketing claims and seeking out independent sources of information. And they’re in control, demanding personalized experiences and products that align with their values.

The Rise of the Health-Conscious Shopper

Let’s face it, we’re living in a world obsessed with wellness. From fitness trackers to meditation apps, health is no longer just a trend; it’s a lifestyle. And this obsession is spilling over into the grocery aisles.

Consumers are increasingly aware of the impact of food on their health and well-being. They’re reading labels, researching ingredients, and seeking out products that are natural, organic, and free of artificial additives.

The numbers don’t lie:

• The global health and wellness market is booming, with a projected value of $7 trillion by 2025. (Source: Global Wellness Institute)
• 73% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products. (Source: Nielsen)
• 67% of consumers read ingredient lists carefully. (Source: Label Insight)

This isn’t just a fad, folks. It’s a fundamental shift in consumer behavior, and grocery stores that ignore it do so at their own peril.

The Skeptical Consumer: Building Trust in a World of Misinformation

Remember those catchy jingles and colorful commercials that used to convince us to buy sugary cereals and processed snacks? Yeah, those days are over.

Today’s consumers are bombarded with information from all directions, and they’ve become experts at filtering out the noise. They’re skeptical of marketing claims, wary of greenwashing, and seeking out authentic, transparent brands they can trust.

Trust is the new currency in the grocery industry, and it’s not easily earned. Brands need to go above and beyond to demonstrate their commitment to quality, safety, and ethical practices.

The Empowered Consumer: Taking Control of Their Health and Choices

The new consumer isn’t just health-conscious and skeptical; they’re also empowered. They’re taking control of their health and wellness, seeking out personalized information and experiences that cater to their individual needs.

This means providing shoppers with the tools and resources they need to make informed choices. Think detailed product information, nutritional comparisons, and personalized recommendations based on dietary restrictions and preferences.

The days of one-size-fits-all marketing are over. The new consumer demands a personalized approach, and grocery stores that deliver will reap the rewards.

The Role of Technology in Empowering the New Consumer

Technology is playing a crucial role in empowering the new consumer. From mobile apps to digital displays, technology is providing shoppers with the information and tools they need to make informed choices.

• Mobile apps: Allow shoppers to create shopping lists, compare prices, access coupons, and learn more about products.
• Digital displays: Provide dynamic and engaging content, showcasing product information, nutritional facts, and healthy recipes.

Interactive kiosks: Offer personalized recommendations, wayfinding assistance, and even self-checkout options.

By seamlessly integrating technology into the grocery store environment, retailers can enhance the shopping experience and empower consumers to make healthier choices.

Meeting the Needs of the New Consumer: Strategies for Grocery Retailers

So, how can grocery retailers adapt to the needs of the new consumer? Here are a few key strategies:

• Embrace Transparency: Be upfront about your sourcing, ingredients, and manufacturing processes. Provide clear and concise product information, and don’t be afraid to answer tough questions.
• Build Trust: Invest in building relationships with your customers. Engage with them on social media, respond to their feedback, and show them that you care about their health and well-being.
• Offer Personalized Experiences: Use data and technology to personalize the shopping experience. Provide tailored recommendations, create targeted promotions, and offer convenient services like online ordering and curbside pickup.
• Empower Consumers: Give shoppers the tools and resources they need to make informed choices. Provide detailed product information, nutritional comparisons, and educational content about healthy eating.

Embrace Technology: Integrate technology seamlessly into the shopping experience. Use digital displays, interactive kiosks, and mobile apps to enhance engagement, provide information, and streamline operations.

Conclusion

The new consumer is here to stay, and they’re not going away anytime soon. Grocery retailers that embrace transparency, build trust, and leverage technology to empower shoppers will be the ones that thrive in this evolving landscape.

The grocery aisle is no longer just a place to buy food; it’s a place to connect with consumers, build relationships, and foster a sense of community. By understanding the needs of the new consumer, grocery retailers can create a shopping experience that is not only healthy and sustainable but also engaging and rewarding.

But this isn’t just another regulatory shift. For the first time in U.S. political and bureaucratic history, the HHS Secretary is not only backed by the President and Senate but is also leading a movement of millions of citizens—especially health-conscious moms—who demand real change. This grassroots force, fueled by the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement, is laser-focused on reshaping America’s food landscape.

For grocery stores and food brands, this means one thing: adapt or be left behind.

The Trenches of the Ultra-Processed Food Battle

RFK and the MAHA movement are taking direct aim at grocery store aisles filled with ultra-processed, chemical-laden foods. He has specifically called out major brands like Lucky Charms for using artificial colors and additives in U.S. products while selling naturally formulated versions overseas.

This time, it’s not just government oversight pushing for change—it’s a massive, organized consumer movement that won’t back down.

Here’s what’s coming and how brands and grocery stores need to prepare:

1. Reformulation is No Longer Optional

Brands will be forced to remove or replace controversial ingredients—artificial colors, emulsifiers, and preservatives—with natural alternatives. The pace of change will need to accelerate, as RFK’s HHS will push for tighter food safety regulations. Companies that innovate quickly will have the first-mover advantage.

2. Turn Labels into Love Letters

Ingredient lists are no longer fine print—they’re credibility tests. With health-conscious moms scrutinizing every additive, brands must adopt European-style “clean labeling.” Think “free-from” claims, simplified terminology, and certifications (e.g., “Non-GMO Project Verified”). Retailers like Kroger and Albertsons are already prioritizing brands with transparent labels; under RFK, this will become table stakes.

3. Advertising and Store Signage Must Shift

Grocery stores and brands can no longer rely on packaging alone to communicate food safety. Expect an industry-wide shift where in-store digital screens, advertisements, and direct-to-consumer messaging play a crucial role in showcasing why certain foods are safe and better for health. Retailers and brands will need to invest in new, innovative communication strategies to retain shopper trust.

4. Grocery Stores Must Curate Their Shelves

Retailers will be under pressure to phase out certain ultra-processed products entirely. This will require close collaboration between grocery chains and brands to ensure compliance with upcoming food safety standards while still meeting customer demand. The stores that lean into this shift—promoting cleaner, healthier alternatives—will maintain consumer loyalty.

5. A New Grocery Landscape is Emerging

The grocery aisle is set to be the frontline of RFK’s war on ultra-processed foods. But this time, it’s not just policymakers driving change—it’s millions of consumers, particularly MAHA moms, who are demanding better food options for their families.

Brands and retailers must not only adapt but also actively communicate their commitment to health and safety. This is more than a policy shift—it’s a consumer revolution.

6. Appease the Mom Army

Health-conscious mothers aren’t just a demographic—they’re a political force. Brands that engage them early (e.g., via social media polls on ingredient preferences, mom blogger partnerships, or “bring your child to the lab” transparency tours) will earn loyalty. Retailers, meanwhile, can host “clean food” workshops or use VSTR’s screens to showcase mom-approved products. Ignore this cohort, and risk boycotts gone viral.

7. Don’t Hack (aka Lobby) the system – Might not work this time.

And a bonus one, in case you haven’t already figured. RFK specifically campaigned on eliminating the conflicts of interest between food manufacturers and regulating agencies under the HHS. So while we can try – relying on lobbying as the sole change maker might not work as well this time. With that said, Will your brand or store evolve fast enough to meet this moment?

Our Vision

At VSTR Media, we envision a future where technology seamlessly integrates into everyday environments to create enriching experiences for both customers and businesses. Our mission is to transform static communication into dynamic, engaging interactions that not only inform but also delight customers while boosting business profitability.

What Does VSTR Media Offer?

VSTR Media provides two core solutions:

1. Digital Signage: Standard TV screens that display advertisements by brands or in-store promotions. These are ideal for grocery stores to run targeted ads, share offers, and boost sales.
2. Interactive Kiosks: These kiosks are equipped to engage customers with activities like:
   • Giveaways and coupons.
   • Selfies and bulletin boards.
   • Interactive games such as slot machines and fortune wheels, where customers can win coupons or free products.

These features enhance the shopping experience and build customer loyalty while offering opportunities for stores to increase revenue.

Why VSTR Media for Grocery Stores?

Grocery stores are high-traffic environments where customers make numerous decisions in real time. VSTR Media’s solutions help grocery stores create a more engaging shopping experience while unlocking new revenue streams. Here’s how:

1. Enhanced Customer Engagement

• Interactive Features: Kiosks offer activities like games and giveaways that make shopping enjoyable.
• Personalized Experience: Customers can receive coupons, discounts, and promotions tailored to their interests.

2. Advertising Revenue

Stores can monetize their digital signage by partnering with brands to display ads on in-store TV screens. These ad placements:

• Reach a captive audience in key areas like checkout lanes or high-traffic aisles.
• Promote relevant products directly at the point of purchase.

Statistic: Digital signage increases brand awareness by 47.7% and drives a 31.8% sales uplift for advertised products (source: Nielsen).

3. Efficient Communication

• Update promotions, events, and announcements in real time from a centralized system.
• Eliminate the costs and hassle of printing static posters.

Key Benefits of VSTR Media for Grocery Stores

1. Boost Sales Through Promotions

Digital signage and kiosks can highlight ongoing deals and encourage impulse purchases. For example:

• A “Buy One Get One Free” offer displayed near the relevant product aisle.
• Interactive games that reward customers with coupons for featured items.

Use Case: A grocery store uses a kiosk to run a fortune wheel game. Customers win a free product or a discount coupon, encouraging them to add more items to their carts.

2. Improve Customer Experience

Customers value convenience and quick access to information. VSTR Media’s solutions enhance this experience by:

• Providing Games: Fun activities like slot machines or bulletin boards keep customers engaged while shopping.
• Offering Promotions: Interactive kiosks deliver exclusive offers in a creative way.

Statistic: A report by Statista highlights that 78% of shoppers are more likely to visit stores offering interactive technology.

3. Build Customer Loyalty

Interactive kiosks allow grocery stores to:

• Create memorable shopping experiences.
• Reward customers through games and giveaways, increasing repeat visits.

How VSTR Media Helps Retailers Make Money

1. Ad Revenue: Brands pay to advertise their products on in-store screens, creating a steady revenue stream for the store.
2. Increased Sales: Eye-catching promotions and interactive games encourage impulse buys.
3. Customer Retention: Engaging activities foster loyalty, leading to more frequent visits.
4. Reduced Costs: Digital signage eliminates the need for printed materials, saving on design and printing expenses.

Statistic: Businesses using digital signage see a 20-25% increase in revenue, according to Digital Signage Today.

Use Cases of VSTR Media

1. Seasonal Promotions

During holidays or seasonal sales, digital signage and kiosks can be updated instantly to reflect new deals and promotions.

2. Interactive Campaigns

Use kiosks to run campaigns where customers can win coupons or free products through games like slot machines or fortune wheels.

3. Sponsored Content

Partner with local businesses to display their advertisements, creating additional revenue streams.

Getting Started with VSTR Media

Implementing VSTR Media solutions is simple:

1. Assess Your Needs: Identify the goals you want to achieve—whether it’s boosting sales, engaging customers, or generating ad revenue.
2. Select the Right Solution: Choose from digital signage, interactive kiosks, or a combination of both.
3. Customize Content: Work with our team to design compelling visuals and messages.

Call to Action: Ready to transform your grocery store with VSTR Media? Contact Us Today to schedule a demo or learn more.

VSTR Media is more than just a signage solution—it’s a platform that combines technology, creativity, and strategy to drive success in grocery stores. By engaging customers with fun and interactive experiences, simplifying communication, and creating new revenue opportunities, VSTR Media ensures your store stays competitive in a digital-first world.