Winter Springs, FL – June 1, 2026 — The National Watermelon Promotion Board (NWPB) is proud to announce the launch of the 18th Annual Retail Merchandising Contest, inviting retailers from across the country to showcase their creativity and merchandising excellence for a chance to win top prizes, including a $5,000 grand prize.
This year’s contest introduces a partnership with Tajín®, encouraging retailers to incorporate the iconic chili-lime seasoning into their watermelon displays. To celebrate this collaboration, the first 100 qualifying entries that feature Tajín® in their merchandising will receive a $20 Amazon gift card. In addition, the first 25 entrants will receive a $20 digital gift card just for participating.
Retailers are encouraged to highlight watermelon’s key attributes including health, happiness, value, and versatility, through innovative in-store and digital merchandising efforts. Eligible displays may feature any type of watermelon, including whole, fresh-cut, mini, yellow, red, or any mixed thereof.
Judging will be based on several criteria, including:
- Category visibility
- Visual merchandising creativity
- Effective use of materials
- Communication of nutritional benefits
- Inclusion of recipes or selection education
- Integration across print, online, and digital platforms
Prize Structure:
- 1st Place: $5,000
- 2nd Place: $2,500
- 3rd Place: $1,000
- Honorable Mentions (3): $500 each
“All year long, retailers play a vital role in connecting shoppers with fresh, nutritious foods,” said Juliemar Rosado. “This contest is a celebration of their creativity and dedication. We’re especially excited to partner with Tajín this year to inspire bold, flavorful displays that highlight watermelon in fun and unexpected ways.”
“We’ve proudly partnered with NWPB for several years,” said Eric Patrick, Tajin® fresh produce alliances. “Consumers love this flavor combination, and we look forward to seeing the innovative merchandising and marketing strategies retailers create. Together, watermelon and Tajín generate strong interest and engagement at retail.”
The contest officially begins June 8, 2026, and runs through August 31, 2026. Merchandising efforts must take place a minimum of one week throughout the months of June, July or August. For more information, including Official Rules and an Online Entry Form, visit https://www.watermelon.org/audiences/retailers/retail-contest/. Entries, including entry forms and photos, can also be submitted via email to [email protected]. All submissions must be received by midnight EST on September 14, 2026.
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