Monday, October 6th | 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Details coming soon

Monday, October 6th | 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM

This is a great networking event giving participants the opportunity to discuss relevant industry topics in a round table format with fellow industry professionals sitting at the table.
Over the 45 minutes, participants can choose a table with an assigned topic to discuss. After 20 minutes we will pause and ask everyone to switch to a second table topic. 

Partnering for Growth: Collaborative strategies between buyers (universities and retailers) and suppliers in health-conscious categories

• Discus how universities, retailers and suppliers can partner to expand the reach of healthy food products
• Examples of co-branding, joint promotions, and other strategies that are win, win

The Rise of Health Conscious Eating: Staying ahead of consumer trends

• Discuss the emerging trends and consumer preferences of today and ways to adapt to meet future needs.
• Explore up and coming trends

Rise of the GLP-1 Shopper: How to support the needs of this growing group of consumers

• Review the needs of the GLP-1 shopper and how it shaping consumer preferences and behavior
• Best practices and trends at shelf and marketing to these shoppers

Sustainability in Food & Beverage Industry: Challenges & Opportunities

• Explore how consumers are driving sustainability demands and what buyers are looking for. 
• Current and coming best practices

Consumer Behavior: What is driving purchasing today

• Discuss key drivers behind purchasing decisions at the store and on campus. 
• Discuss how to reach a diverse consumer base, Millennials, Gen Z and older generations

Monday, October 6th | 5:45 PM - 6:45 PM

Join us for a lively cocktail reception where you'll have the chance to sample innovative offerings from our participating suppliers. Mingle, explore new flavors, and connect with industry peers in a relaxed, fun atmosphere. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to sip, savor, and network!

Tuesday, October 7th | 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

This is a great networking event giving participants the opportunity to discuss relevant industry topics in a round table format with fellow industry professionals sitting at the table.
Over the 45 minutes, participants can choose a table with an assigned topic to discuss. After 20 minutes we will pause and ask everyone to switch to a second table topic. 

1. Cost Control Strategies in a Volatile Market: Balancing Quality & Profitability

• Discuss rising costs of ingredients, labor, and overheads in current market
• What innovative ways have buyers and sellers done to help manage cost without sacrificing quality?

2. Optimizing the Frozen & Refrigerated Aisles: Best Practices for Merchandising

• Discuss effective strategies for merchandising frozen, refrigerated, and deli products to maximize sales. 
• What role packaging, in-store displays, and cross-category promotions play in increasing consumer engagement

3. E-commerce & Delivery: Navigating the future of Frozen, Meat, Dairy, Deli, and Bakery Categories

• How is growth of online grocery shopping affecting frozen and refrigerated sales
• Discuss innovations in shipping and logistics of items for these categories

Join us for the Buyers' Choice Awards hosted by ECRM and Food & Beverage Magazine! Suppliers will submit their product offering and participating buyers will cast their vote for their favorite product!