The Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI), a division of FMI – The Food Industry Association, has appointed Brian Updegraff as director of financial planning and analysis. In this role, Updegraff will lead the SQFI team in developing and executing financial strategies while collaborating on revenue initiatives to support the global food safety and certification program. “Brian comes […]
Category: Association News
Posted inIndependent Store News, Association News, News, Southeast
Alabama Grocer Receives NGA Spirit Of America Award
The National Grocers Association (NGA) recently presented Harold Garrett, president and general manager of Gateway Foods and longtime board member of the Alabama Grocers Association (AGA), with its Spirit of America Award. The presentation occurred during AGA’s annual convention July 13-16 in recognition of Garrett’s leadership and a career that reflects dedication to community, country […]
Posted inAssociation News, News, Northeast, Specialty
NJFC Hosts Reception For Local Companies At Fancy Food Show
The New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) Leadership Development Program hosted a New Jersey Pavilion Reception on June 30 during the 2025 SFA Summer Fancy Food Show at the Javits Center in New York City. Under the theme of “Diners, Buyers & Suppliers,” the event saluted the Garden State’s contributions to the national food scene and its […]
Posted inProduce News, Association News, News, Southwest
Texas Watermelon Association Introduces Refreshed Brand Identity
The Texas Watermelon Association (TWA) has unveiled a refreshed brand identity, including a new logo and redesigned website. As a top five watermelon-producing state in the U.S., Texas plays a major role in meeting demand for the fruit. The new look and online experience reflect TWA’s mission to support the state’s watermelon industry while connecting […]
Posted inAssociation News, News, Specialty
2025 Fancy Food Show Sees Increase In Attendee Registration
The Specialty Food Association (SFA) brought together more than 32,000 industry professionals June 29-July 1 for the 69th Summer Fancy Food Show at the Javits Center in New York City. Attendee registration jumped 14 percent over 2024, to about 13,000, including about 8,100 buyers, a 9 percent increase. As specialty food and beverage products grow […]
Posted inDairy News, Association News, Frozen Food, National, News
Ice Cream Producers Promise To Eliminate Artificial Colors By 2027
A new voluntary effort led by the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) in partnership with America’s ice cream makers promises to eliminate certified artificial colors from ice cream products made with real milk by Dec. 31, 2027. With this effort, dozens of U.S. ice cream companies are pledging to eliminate the use of certified artificial […]
Posted inAssociation News, News, Southeast
AGA Presents Industry Awards At Annual Show
The Alabama Grocers Association (AGA) brought members from all aspects of the grocery industry together July 13-16 for its 35th annual show at the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort in Destin, Florida. The show promotes the growth and success of the grocery industry in Alabama through advocacy, industry education, public relations and networking. The business […]
Posted inGrocery Research, Association News, National, News
FMI Report: Amid Uncertainty, Food Industry Succeeds In Offering Value
FMI – The Food Industry Association has released its signature research, “The Food Retailing Industry Speaks 2025,” which reveals how the industry is evolving into a modern grocery experience while navigating a complex operating environment. The analysis highlights successful strategies across the sector and offers a deeper exploration of how food retailers and suppliers are […]