The autumn leaves are falling and the time is growing short before the big event in Washington. No, not the election of a new President of the United States, but rather the October 22-25 National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Convention at the Marriott Wardman Park. This year’s theme is “The Right Choice for Business.”
The gathering, which takes place just two weeks before American voters decide who will replace Barack Obama in the White House, promises to deliver “a one-of-a-kind opportunity” for frozen and refrigerated food industry executives to conduct one-on-one meetings with dozens of customers in just a few days. The annual event is hosted by the National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA).
The NFRA Convention is designed to bring together leading companies from every segment of the industry in one venue so that attendees are able to conduct more business in less time. Retailer members are provided with complimentary meeting rooms where they may hold appointments. Last year’s event brought together over 1,200 attendees to network and conduct business.
From beginning to end, the program is structured to help attendees make valuable connections. The action informally begins on October 22, when delegates pick up registration materials and rendezvous with colleagues and customers. The convention kicks off in earnest with the popular Taste of Excellence Reception on Sunday, October 23, where frozen and refrigerated food manufacturers showcase their latest products. This engaging opening party gives attendees the chance to interact with industry colleagues while sampling the newest items in frozen and refrigerated foods.
This year’s agenda features a nationally known political strategist and commentator as the Monday morning breakfast speaker. The Membership Luncheon on Monday will include NFRA’s annual business meeting, at which time Chairman Scott Rouse of Tyson will present a “State of the Association” address. In addition, 2016 Refrigerated Food Hall of Fame inductees will be honored. A new Networking Reception on Monday evening will recognize the 2016 Golden Penguin winners for the March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and June/July Ice Cream & Novelties promotions.
During Tuesday’s breakfast session, political media consultant Alex Castellanos and political columnist Eugene Robinson will square off on this year’s election. NFRA’s incoming chairman, Joy Sgro of C&S Wholesale Grocers, will host Tuesday’s Industry Luncheon featuring the Retail Patriot Awards presentation.
NFRA is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry in the USA. Headquartered in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, it is the sponsor of March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month, June/July Ice Cream & Novelties and the October Cool Food for Kids educational outreach program.
For more information about the convention, visit www.nfraconvention.org.
