Dairy Processing - March/April 2024 - 64

MEETING PREVIEW
connections
strong
IDDBA 2024 will feature what's new for
dairy and emphasize industry relationships.
by Michael Gordon | dairyprocessing@sosland.com
T
he organizers behind the International Dairy Deli
Bakery Association's upcoming IDDBA 2024 show said
the three-day event is where the industry comes to see
the latest trends and newest solutions.
Slated for June 9-11 at the George R. Brown Convention
Center in Houston, the association's annual industry-only
show is expected to draw more than 9,000 attendees,
representing 28 countries.
IDDBA also expects a sold-out show floor, with 800plus
exhibiting companies that operate within the world of
dairy, deli, bakery, c-store and foodservice. The organization
developed its large-scale
show to help industry
professionals foster
relationships, grow
business and experience
the latest products and
trends in the market.
With members from roughly 1,500 companies - from
small independents to global corporations - the non-profit
association aims to foster economic growth by providing yearround
opportunities for professional dialogue, education, the
exchange of industry data, and selling occasions.
A prominent part of IDDBA 2024 in Houston includes large
dairy companies that supply retail dairy aisles and specialty
cheese departments. Many dairy industry heavy hitters will
be exhibiting, including California Milk Advisory Board,
Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin and the Illinois Department
of Agriculture. Plus the show has dedicated sections for
equipment and business services.
The annual experience was developed to attract serious
buyers, merchandisers and executives passionate about food
and the industry, by offering insights and networking.
" IDDBA, for us, is a great place to interact with our buyers,
64 MAR-APR 2024 | DAIRYPROCESSING.COM
merchandisers and our customers - and also with people
here at the industry to see what's new and what's going on, "
said David Stearle, president of Vermont Creamery at Land
O'Lakes, Inc., and vice president of sales - US dairy foods.
Historically one of the most popular portions of the event
is What's In Store Live, which shines a spotlight on technology
and innovation. IDDBA bills it as an interactive marketplace
that is designed by a number of industry experts. It includes
representative bakery, cake, cheese and prepared foods cases.
In 2023, IDDBA and RATIONAL USA teamed up to create
a combination culinary and networking internship program
to show students the world of foodservice outside of the
standard restaurant path, where they can experience " Kitchen
Quality of Life, " a unique work-life balance enjoyed by retail
foodservice professionals.
Culinary students will work side-by-side with both industry
mentors and chefs to creatively set up and run the What's in
Store Live! area. Students are asked to be present at the show
for four days, three of which will be working days, with a day
off to walk the show, network and engage with mentors and
other attendees.
Those who are interested in this opportunity and want to
learn more, can fill out an application on the IDDBA website.
Show organizers also are bringing back the Visionary
Pavilion, which gives smaller, upstart businesses that are
first- and second-year exhibitors the chance to present their
innovations and concepts.
Additionally, the Digital New Product Showcase offers
a glimpse into innovation and trends through cutting-edge
products, packaging and services.
Attendees are encouraged to download The IDDBA app,
which functions year-round. The IDDBA mAPPed feature
allows show attendees to find out more about exhibitors and
guide them to the right booths.
http://www.DAIRYPROCESSING.COM
Dairy Processing - March/April 2024

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Dairy Processing - March/April 2024
