It is an exciting time to be in the food industry! Not only are the customers more informed than ever, but the demands they place on their retailers of choice include personalization, lifestyles, and connectivity. When will they run out of their favorite product? When do their demands change throughout their lives? When do they want you to help them, and when do they want you to back off? All are questions at the top of every food retailer's mind. In this text, we will take the reader from the origin of the science we call Category Management, through to the best practices and Category Management's impact for the future. You will learn how the Category Business Plan has evolved over time. And you will also learn how the basics have really never changed. The customer of today, as did the customer of yesterday, places his or her trust, loyalty and confidence in their retailers of choice. The best retailers are the ones who cover the basics every day! Category Management will help you along the journey!