Nearly 1,600 professionals from more than 500 different companies attended AFFI-CON 2024, the frozen food industry’s premier annual event Feb. 24-27 in San Diego.
“AFFI is committed to fostering industry growth through data, insights and programming such as AFFI-CON,” said Alison Bodor, president and CEO of The American Frozen Food Institute
“This event provides a unique opportunity for one-on-one meetings, preparing business for the entire year, and setting your company up for success. The record-breaking attendance … from around the globe proves the value that the entire industry finds in AFFI-CON.”
Bodor also noted the many other offerings AFFI provides.
“There are many ways that membership with AFFI can help bolster your business,” she said.
“Our team of expert staff works year-round to lead on food safety, mitigate regulatory burdens on the industry, elevate the profile of frozen food among thought leaders, drive a positive sustainability profile and facilitate meaningful networking opportunities. Attending AFFI-CON is just one way for organizations to leverage the benefits of AFFI.”
Also at the conference, members voted for the continuation of AFFI’s board officers for another one-year term:
- Chair: John Tentomas, CEO, Nature’s Touch Frozen Foods
- Chair-Elect: Suvan Sharma, CEO, Jain Farm Fresh Foods
The following members were elected to the executive committee for one-year terms:
- Rick Drummond, B&G Foods
- Debbie Radie, Boardman Foods
- Tracey Beck, Conagra Brands
- Tony Shurman, Jasper Wyman & Son
- Brian Fox, Richelieu Foods
The following were elected to serve on the AFFI Board for the 2024-27 term:
- Jeff Preston, ArdoVLM
- Jeff Tuttle, Bellisio Foods
- Peter Johnston, Cavendish Farms
- Jennifer Weekes, Lamb Weston
- Tina Almond, McCain Foods
- Rick Holdren, The Pictsweet Co.
- Jieun Lee, Schwan’s Co.
- Blake Smittcamp, Wawona Frozen Foods
In addition to its annual meeting, AFFI presented a lineup of speakers who provided remarks on the issues shaping frozen food. Jeremy Bess, economist with ITR Economics, reviewed the economic marketplace and shared insights into upcoming business cycle changes.
Frank Yiannas, former deputy commissioner for food policy and response at the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, explained the business imperative for a food safety culture and how leaders can integrate change within their organizations.
Attendees also heard stories of leadership and success from Robert O’Neill, former Navy SEAL and member of the SEAL Team Six Operation Neptune Spear.
AFFI-CON 2025 is scheduled for Feb. 22-25 in Dallas.
About AFFI
AFFI is the member-driven national trade association representing all segments of the frozen food supply chain, from manufacturers to suppliers and distributors.
AFFI advocates before legislative and regulatory entities on the industry’s behalf, serves as the voice for the industry and convenes industry leadership to create an environment where frozen foods are essential in a dynamic marketplace.
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