NJ Food Industry Experts Discuss Lessons Learned From COVID-19 at NJFC’s Virtual Trade Relations Conference

Leaders from New Jersey’s food retail and distribution businesses gathered virtually to address lessons learned from COVID-19, tackling topics such as supply chain challenges, shopper trends, and private label opportunities.

“This forum is a unique opportunity for the state’s leaders in the food industry to discuss challenges, collaborations, and innovations in the food space,” said NJFC President and CEO Linda Doherty. “This panel really captured the minds of our member audience and provided a pathway for food industry members to evolve during this pivotal time in the way consumers shop for food and products.”

Keynote Speaker ACME Markets President Jim Perkins answers questions from NJFC President Linda Doherty.

The Trade Relations Conference hosted by the New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) featured a keynote address from Jim Perkins President of ACME Markets and an expert panel discussion moderated by Nick Brown of Kraft Heinz Company and consisted of Kathryn Fair of Unilever, Kimberly Senter of Advantage Solutions, and Chris Skyers of Wakefern Food Corp.

Nick Brown (top right) of Kraft-Heinz Co. moderates an expert panel consisting of Chris Skyers of Wakefern Food Corp. (top left), Kathryn Fair of Unilever (bottom left) and Kimberly Senter of Advantage Solutions (bottom right).

Additionally, Kevin Gallagher and Maria Maggio of Food Trade News were honored with the New Jersey Food Council’s Max Stone Trade Relations Awards. Doherty said, “Kevin Gallagher and Maria Maggio for their integrity and commitment to promoting trade relationships. This recognition represents our appreciation of their outstanding ability to foster trade partnerships and provide a spirit of camaraderie and friendship to our close knit trade community.”

Shown from left are NJFC President Linda Doherty; Jimmy Ostling, Grupo Bimbo; Kevin Gallagher and Maria Maggio, Food Trade News; and Mike Biase, Mission Foods.

The conference concluded with an industry-wide golf outing at Old York Country Club, Chesterfield, NJ.

The New Jersey Food Council is the Garden State’s preeminent trade association representing almost 400 companies including 1,200 retail food stores, wholesalers, manufacturing and service companies that collectively employ more than 200,000 associates in NJ. For more information, visit www.njfoodcouncil.com.

The event was featured by The Shelby Report.

Posted in Breaking News.