IFPA's Cathy Burns Previews The Foodservice Conference

July 8, 2024

Washington, D.C. - As the signature event for produce in the culinary arts, The Foodservice Conference promises top-notch education, the right connections, and the best expo – with products and services targeted specifically to the foodservice industry.

So says Cathy Burns, CEO of IFPA, which puts on the event to bring the foodservice industry together around one of its most important components – fresh produce. The conference is July 25-26 in Monterey, CA.

“This is the go-to event for foodservice operators and distributors as well as the suppliers,” she said. “It’s the only place foodservice and produce meet, and anyone who is not there will miss out on significant insights, innovations, and partnerships.”

Besides the buyers and suppliers mentioned, the conference features a strong contingent from K-12 schools. “Nothing is more important than starting our kids off right when it comes to healthy eating,” Burns said. “The K-12 attendees are helping kids choose and enjoy fresh produce as they form healthy eating habits for life.”

Two general sessions shine the spotlight on the foodservice business environment and the role of women in the industry:

Opportunities for Fresh Produce in Foodservice: David Henkes, senior principal and head of strategic partnerships at Technomic will lead a discussion of the latest research to determine the flow of commodities throughout all foodservice channels, shedding light on key trends, challenges, and, most importantly, potential avenues for growth and development.

Empowering Women in Foodservice: A panel discussion on success, challenges, and innovation at the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Breakfast, will showcase the diverse experiences of women in foodservice. It will also celebrate the multigenerational legacy of women in the industry and offer insights and inspiration from trailblazing women shaping the future of foodservice. Moderated by Lauren M. Scott of IFPA and The Foundation for Fresh Produce, the panel includes: Maria DeSarbo of Carbonella & DeSarbo, Linette Dodson of the Georgia Department of Education, and Grace Goudie of Scratch Board Kitchen.

The conference also includes two series of education breakout sessions, multiple networking events, and a can’t-miss expo.

IFPA's Cathy Burns Previews The Foodservice Conference

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