April 29, 2024
Washington, DC - Heavy demand for International Fresh Produce Association’s The Foodservice Conference has sold out the expo, three months before the event. With a large and diverse exhibiting presence, attendees will have great access to innovative ideas, products, and services to enhance their produce and plant-forward offerings.
Taking place July 25-26 in Monterey, Calif, IFPA’s annual event unites the produce and foodservice industries for thought leadership, unmatched opportunities to connect, and an expo that is known as the most important 5½ hours in produce foodservice.
The 192 exhibitors will see buyers from all formats – distributors, operators, K-12 school foodservice pros, chefs, menu developers, and retail foodservice buyers. The event boasts a 1-to-1 buyer-seller ratio.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to see the expo sell out even quicker than last year,” said Joe Watson, Vice President of Retail, Foodservice & Wholesale, IFPA. “The excitement for this year’s event is palpable and it shows in the great number and variety of exhibitors and buyers attending.”
Though the expo has sold out, there are additional opportunities for companies to gain visibility at the conference, including an expo wait list, sponsorships, and Buyer Sourcing Meetings.
The anchor of the foodservice year draws more than 2,200 people, including a strong buyer community, to connect, learn, and do business.
“If you want to network with current and new partners, strengthen relationships, and learn about new products and trends, this event is ideal for you,” said Watson. “More than 80% of attendees make, influence, or recommend purchases; you can’t go wrong with a stat like that.”
“We have quite the wide scale of large-volume purchasers represented at the conference,” Watson added. “In addition to distributors, operators, and menu planners, our event attracts K-12 school foodservice professionals who are committed to ensuring the next generation develops healthy eating habits with produce early in life.”
K-12 school foodservice professionals attend to see the latest products, visit fields and production facilities, and connect with suppliers so they can offer kids the kinds of produce items they see in restaurants or other out-of-home eating places.
In addition to the expo, the conference features an education program with industry thought leaders who will discuss trends, expectations, and other key topics of importance to the industry. Participants will also enjoy many networking opportunities during meals and receptions, including the highly popular Women’s Fresh Perspectives event. This year, the event moves to a General Session, which is now included in registration for the first time.
Conference registration, the expo wait list, sponsorship opportunities, and Buyer Sourcing Meetings are available on IFPA’s website.