The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) recently marked a significant milestone with its 2024 Convention, held from October 5 to 8 in National Harbor, Maryland. The event attracted over 1,700 professionals from the frozen and refrigerated food sectors, setting new attendance records and reinforcing the importance of in-person collaboration.
Tricia Greyshock, the president and CEO of NFRA, highlighted the success of this year’s convention, stating, “We set a new record for participation at this key industry event, including attendance from over 100 organizations that sent representatives for the first time.” This surge in engagement indicates that industry players continue to value gatherings that foster direct connections and knowledge sharing.
One of the striking metrics from the convention was the execution of more than 6,500 business appointments, showing NFRA’s dedication to maximizing the productivity of attendees’ time outside their daily work environments. This initiative ensured that participants could engage in valuable discussions, forge partnerships, and explore new opportunities.
The convention was characterized by numerous networking and informative events, allowing industry stakeholders to highlight their innovations. A standout feature was the “Taste of Excellence” opening reception, showcasing over 50 manufacturers and emerging brands in the frozen and dairy sectors. This event provided a tangible platform for attendees to sample new products and understand the latest trends shaping the industry.
Among the highlights of this year’s convention was Café NFRA, a dedicated networking hub that enabled attendees to connect while enjoying offerings from both emerging and well-established brands. This interactive space was designed not just for casual discussions, but also for meaningful collaborations that could lead to future business successes.
To keep professionals informed and ahead of the curve, the convention featured presentations from leading industry experts, offering valuable insights into market trends and economic forecasts. These sessions helped participants understand the evolving landscape of the frozen and refrigerated food industries, equipping them with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions.
Recognition of excellence was another focal point of the NFRA Convention. The Golden Penguin Awards celebrated outstanding achievements in marketing and merchandising, illustrating innovative strategies that have resulted in significant successes within the sector. These awards serve not only as a benchmark for quality but also motivate companies to pursue creative and effective marketing initiatives.
A particularly notable event was the induction of two new members into the Frozen Food Hall of Fame. William Kitchens, former general counsel of NFRA, and H.V. “Skip” Shaw, the former president, were honored for their lifelong contributions to the industry. The Hall of Fame, established in 1990, recognizes individuals whose dedication has positively impacted the frozen food segment.
The inaugural Penguin Pitch Competition was another innovative aspect of the convention, where Big Mozz was awarded the title of NFRA’s 2024 Emerging Brand of the Year. The competition served as a platform for new ideas, with additional awards presented to MingsBings for Most Unique Promotional Campaign, Lopaus Point for Creative Packaging, and Wow Bao for Most Disruptive Product. The enthusiasm generated by this competition suggests a healthy future for innovation within the industry.
The convention also hosted the 80th Annual Membership Luncheon, where NFRA elected its association officers and board members for the coming year. Tracy Aquila from Southeastern Grocers was named chairman of the board, ensuring that experienced leadership will guide the association into its next chapter.
Looking ahead, the NFRA Convention will take place at the Orlando World Center Marriott in Orlando, Florida, from October 18 to 21, 2025. Registration is set to open on March 1, 2025, giving industry professionals ample opportunity to prepare for another exciting event.
In conclusion, the NFRA 2024 Convention not only broke attendance records but also highlighted the importance of innovation, collaboration, and recognition within the frozen and refrigerated industries. The robust turnout and engaging agenda reflect a vibrant sector eager to seize new opportunities and adapt to the changing market.
