The New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) Leadership Development Program hosted a New Jersey Pavilion Reception at the 2025 SFA Summer Fancy Food Show June 30 at the Javits Center in New York City.
Under the theme of “Diners, Buyers & Suppliers,” the event saluted the Garden State’s rich contributions to the national food scene and its emerging New Jersey food companies. This first networking event, held in partnership with the New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC), highlighted New Jersey’s strong presence in the food industry.
Set against the backdrop of the nation’s largest specialty food and beverage trade show, the reception offered NJFC members an exclusive opportunity to connect with fellow food industry professionals, meet with small New Jersey-based vendors and celebrate the state’s food production and retail sector. The vendors supplied samples of their products for attendees to enjoy, from gourmet snacks to specialty sauces.
“This is an exciting opportunity for our Leadership Development Program participants to bring together food innovators, retail executives and emerging leaders to showcase the energy and entrepreneurial spirit that defines New Jersey’s food landscape,” said NJFC President and CEO Linda Doherty.
“Our Garden State is home to a robust food industry, and this reception is a chance to shine a spotlight on our impact at a national stage.”
The NJFC Leadership Development Program, which is designed to cultivate future leaders within the food retail and distribution industries, is a year-long initiative that combines mentoring, policy education, leadership training and behind-the-scenes experiences.
This year’s eight participants have gained first-hand exposure to the business and government dynamics that shape the industry, through hosting this event as well as attending an NJFC board meeting and meeting with government officials in Trenton and Washington, D.C. All of these experiences are preparing them for future leadership roles within NJFC and their organizations.
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