Now back at headquarters in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania after the busy 2023 NFRA Convention, the National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) reports that the annual event racked up recording-breaking results with nearly 1,600 delegates from all sectors of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry in attendance. The October 7-10 gathering featured networking opportunities and new product innovations, while celebrating industry achievements.
Tricia Greyshock, NFRA’s executive vice president and chief operating officer, reflected on the convention in San Diego, stating: “It exceeded our expectations – what a great opportunity to see so many industry leaders come together to further existing business relationships, build new ones, and experience the latest and greatest product innovation in the frozen and refrigerated dairy space.”
Over 5,000 business appointments were conducted, underscoring NFRA’s commitment to optimizing attendees’ time and productivity. The convention offered a platform for more than 50 manufacturers and emerging brands to showcase products at the highly anticipated Taste of Excellence opening reception.
Refrigerated Hall of Fame Inductees
The Refrigerated Food Hall of Fame, established in 2010, recognized two outstanding individuals in the sector. Joe D’Alberto, director of sales for Acosta Sales & Marketing, and Skip Shaw (seen at right in photo below), retired president and chief executive officer of NFRA, were honored during a special ceremony.
Prestigious 2023 Golden Penguin Awards for exceptional achievements in marketing and merchandising within the frozen and refrigerated foods industry were presented. These awards spotlight innovative marketing strategies and creative merchandising efforts that have played a pivotal role in driving success.
This year’s Top Marketers, recognized for their outstanding contributions, include the Frozen & Refrigerated Food Council of Northern California, Tru Fru, Price Chopper/Market 32, RDD Associates, UNFI, Land O’Lakes, Brookshire Grocery Company, Mid-Atlantic Division, Bubbies Ice Cream, and Rouses Markets.
Annual Membership Meeting
During the 79th Annual Membership Luncheon, NFRA elected its association officers and members of the board of directors for 2023-24, with Neil Ritchey of InnovAsian Cuisine Enterprises serving as chairman of the board.
The board recognized Jeff Rumachik, NFRA’s current president and chief executive officer, on his contributions to the association and industry as he transitions into retirement at the end of 2023. Tricia Greyshock will officially succeed him at the helm in January.
Looking ahead to 2024, next year’s NFRA Convention will be held at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, National Harbor, Maryland, from October 5-8. Registration opens on March 1, 2024.
