Discover the Top Food Conferences of 2018

If you’re involved in the food industry, you already know that staying up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations is crucial. Attending food conferences provides an excellent opportunity to learn, network, and grow your business. In this article, we’ll explore the top food conferences of 2018 and guide you on how to choose the best one to attend.

A Brief Overview of the Food Conference Industry

Food conferences provide a platform for professionals across the food industry to exchange ideas, learn from each other, and discover new products and technologies. Attending these events gives you the chance to meet with experts, attend seminars and workshops, and participate in networking events. The food conference industry has grown in popularity in recent years, with events held all over the world.

One of the key benefits of attending a food conference is the opportunity to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations in the industry. Many conferences feature keynote speakers who are experts in their field, and who can provide valuable insights into emerging technologies and new products. Additionally, attending a food conference can help you to build your professional network, which can be invaluable in terms of finding new job opportunities or collaborating on future projects.

Why Attending Food Conferences is Important

Attending food conferences is essential if you want to stay ahead of the game in the food industry. These events offer a unique opportunity to network, learn about new products and technologies, and build your brand. Moreover, attending conferences can inspire new ideas and strategies, and help professionals to stay innovative and creative.

Additionally, food conferences often feature keynote speakers who are experts in the industry. These speakers can provide valuable insights and perspectives on current trends and issues in the food industry. Attending their talks can help professionals gain a deeper understanding of the industry and stay informed about the latest developments.

How to Choose the Best Food Conference for You

Choosing the right food conference to attend can be challenging, but the key is to determine your goals for attending the event. Are you looking to expand your professional network, learn about new trends and developments, or showcase your products? Once you’ve identified your goals, research which conferences offer the most relevant content, exhibitors, and speakers. It’s also essential to consider the location, cost, and duration of the event.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a food conference is the size of the event. Larger conferences may offer more opportunities for networking and exposure, but smaller conferences may provide a more intimate and focused experience. Additionally, it’s important to research the reputation of the conference and its organizers to ensure that it aligns with your values and interests.

Finally, don’t forget to plan ahead and make the most of your time at the conference. Review the schedule and plan which sessions and events you want to attend, and make sure to bring plenty of business cards and promotional materials to share with other attendees. By carefully selecting the right food conference and preparing in advance, you can maximize your experience and achieve your goals for attending the event.

Top Food Conferences in North America

If you’re based in North America, there are plenty of food conferences to choose from. The Specialty Food Association’s Fancy Food Show, held in New York and San Francisco, and the International Restaurant & Foodservice Show in New York are two popular events. Other notable conferences include the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago and the Natural Products Expo West in California.

Attending food conferences is a great way to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations in the industry. In addition to the conferences mentioned above, there are also several regional events worth considering. For example, the Northwest Food & Beverage World in Portland, Oregon, and the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, Colorado, are both highly regarded events. No matter which conference you choose, you’re sure to come away with new ideas and insights to help grow your business.

International Food Conferences Worth Attending

Outside of North America, there are several food conferences worth attending. The Paris International Agricultural Show brings together more than 600,000 visitors to discover the latest in the food industry, while the London Produce Show offers a platform for businesses to sell and promote their products. Additionally, the World Food Moscow is a notable event for those looking to expand their business into the Russian market.

Another notable food conference worth attending is the Asia-Pacific Food Expo held annually in Hong Kong. This event attracts over 500 exhibitors from around the world, showcasing a wide range of food products and services. It is a great opportunity for businesses to network and explore new markets in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Best Food and Beverage Trade Shows of 2018

Food and beverage trade shows are also excellent opportunities to network and showcase your products. Some of the best trade shows in 2018 include SIAL Canada, held in Toronto, and the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago. Other notable events are the Healthy Food Expo and the International Baking Industry Exposition.

Attending these trade shows can provide valuable insights into industry trends and new product developments. It’s also a chance to meet with potential buyers and distributors, as well as connect with other professionals in the field. In addition to the trade show exhibits, many events also offer educational seminars and workshops to help attendees stay up-to-date on the latest industry news and best practices.

Keynote Speakers You Don’t Want to Miss at These Food Conferences

Many food conferences feature keynote speakers who are experts in their fields. Some notable speakers at conferences in 2018 include Michael Cerbelli, a noted event planner and producer, and Michael Moss, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of Salt Sugar Fat: How the Food Giants Hooked Us.

In addition to these speakers, many food conferences also feature chefs who are well-known in the industry. For example, the International Association of Culinary Professionals conference in 2018 featured Chef Jacques Pépin, who has written over 30 cookbooks and hosted numerous cooking shows on television.

Another trend in food conferences is the inclusion of speakers who focus on sustainability and ethical food practices. At the Slow Food Nations conference in 2018, keynote speakers included Vandana Shiva, an environmental activist and author, and Alice Waters, a chef and founder of the Edible Schoolyard Project, which promotes food education in schools.

Networking Opportunities at Food Conferences: Tips and Tricks

Networking is a crucial part of attending a food conference. Here are some tips to help you make the most of networking opportunities:

• Take business cards and be sure to exchange them with other attendees and exhibitors.
• Attend social events and receptions.
• Join industry groups on social media to stay connected with professionals after the conference.

Another important tip for networking at food conferences is to attend workshops and seminars. These sessions provide an opportunity to learn from experts in the industry and engage in discussions with other attendees. By actively participating in these sessions, you can showcase your knowledge and expertise, which can lead to valuable connections.

Additionally, it’s important to be approachable and friendly when networking. Smile, make eye contact, and introduce yourself to others. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone you don’t know. You never know who you might meet and what opportunities may arise from a simple conversation.

The Latest Trends in the Food Industry Being Discussed at These Conferences

At the top food conferences of 2018, you can expect to hear about the latest trends and developments in the food industry. These include topics such as sustainability, farm-to-table, healthy eating, and plant-based diets.

One of the emerging trends in the food industry is the use of technology to improve food safety and quality. This includes the use of blockchain technology to track the origin and journey of food products, as well as the use of sensors and data analytics to monitor food production and storage conditions. These advancements are helping to ensure that consumers have access to safe and high-quality food products.

Sneak Peek into Delicious Tastings and Demos at These Conferences

One of the most exciting parts of attending food conferences is the chance to taste and sample new products. Many conferences offer food and beverage tastings and demos. Some events, such as the Natural Products Expo and the Sweets & Snacks Expo, focus heavily on product demos and sampling.

In addition to the opportunity to taste new products, food conferences also offer valuable educational sessions. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, from food trends and innovations to marketing and business strategies. Attending these sessions can provide valuable insights and knowledge for professionals in the food industry.

Networking is another important aspect of food conferences. These events bring together professionals from all areas of the food industry, including chefs, restaurateurs, food bloggers, and food manufacturers. Networking with these individuals can lead to new business opportunities, collaborations, and partnerships.

How to Make the Most of Your Time at a Food Conference

Attending a food conference can be overwhelming if you’re not properly prepared. To make the most of your time, make a schedule of the events and seminars you want to attend ahead of time. Don’t forget to take breaks when needed and prioritize networking opportunities.

Another important tip to make the most of your time at a food conference is to come prepared with business cards and a clear elevator pitch. This will help you make connections with other attendees and potential business partners. Additionally, take advantage of any opportunities to sample new products or attend cooking demonstrations. These experiences can provide valuable insights and inspiration for your own culinary endeavors.

Tips for Engaging with Exhibitors and Sponsors at a Food Conference

Exhibitors and sponsors can provide valuable information and connections if you engage with them effectively. Be prepared with specific questions and objectives, and take the time to learn about their products and services. Exchange business cards and follow up with them after the conference to establish long-term relationships.

What to Expect from the Future of Food Conference Circuit

The future of food conferences looks bright, with more events being held all over the world. Expect to see more events focused on sustainability, innovation, and diversity. Additionally, there will likely be more emphasis on cross-disciplinary collaborations, as experts from fields such as technology and science become more involved in the food industry.

Conclusion

Attending food conferences is an excellent way to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations in the food industry. With so many events to choose from, it’s essential to choose the right one for your specific goals. By following our tips and tricks for attending food conferences, you’ll make the most of your experience and establish valuable connections within the industry.