Industry News

Top Trends in Food and Hospitality Revealed at IFDA SMart Conference

Jack Li of Datassential said “Fat is back,” citing Bulletproof coffee spiked with grass-fed butter as evidence of crossover into even beverages. Kathrynn Fenner of Technomic said “fresh and natural” took 45 percent of the pie among successful independents over other ingredient priorities like natural, local and even made-from-scratch. David Portalatin of NPD said there are a number of chains who leverage digital technology well, and pointed out that top chains like Jersey Mike’s, Panda Express, Chick-fil-A, Domino’s, Texas Roadhouse, Panera, Moe’s, and Starbucks are leading the digital revolution. In this article, chef and writer Amelia Levin shares takeaway from the 2017 IFDA SMart Conference and presentations by The NPD Group, Datassential, and Technomic.

New IFDA Video: Is a DSR Career in Your Future?

Distributor Sales Representatives — known as DSRs — are the face of foodservice distribution companies in the marketplace and trusted business partners of restaurant and foodservice operators across the United States. IFDA created this video to drive awareness of career opportunities in this dynamic field, and illustrate to potential candidates what being a DSR is all about. We encourage members and other industry professionals to share it with colleagues, customers and partners.

Penny Hoover of Maines Paper & Food Service, Inc. on the Limitless Potential of a Foodservice Distribution Career

In this interview, Penny Hoover of Maines Paper & Food Service, Inc., discusses her current role as a safety manager and her overall 20-year career with Maines, which spans across four business functions. Her story is a testament to the variety of opportunities available within the foodservice distribution industry.

GS1 News: GS1 Discovery App and GS1 US National Data Quality Program Framework Available

In this issue's "Data Quality Tip of the Month," is a tool to establish or enhance your data quality program. The GS1 US National Data Quality Program Framework was developed by industry stakeholders, representing every facet of the supply chain.

Speaker of the House Paul Ryan Visits Gordon Food Service

On June 5, Gordon Food Service hosted House Speaker Paul Ryan at its Kenosha, Wisconsin distribution center. Barry Bates, regional vice president - US distribution for GFS, provided an overview of the foodservice distribution industry and a tour of the warehouse. During the visit, Bates and Rep. Ryan discussed issues of concern for the industry, such as tax reform, healthcare and the driver shortage.

Rep. Jackie Walorski visits Stanz Foodservice

On May 30, Rep. Jackie Walorski (R-IN) visited Stanz Foodservice in South Bend, IN. Stanz Foodservice President Mark Harman provided an overview of the foodservice distribution industry and a tour of the warehouse. Discussion topics included tax reform and healthcare. Rep. Walorski serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, Congress’ chief tax writing committee.

IFDA and Pentallect Launch State of the Street Monitor

The independent market is a continuously evolving and dynamic industry sector. With that in mind, IFDA and Pentallect have launched  the State of the Street Monitor, a quarterly e-report providing original research and “behind the scenes” coverage and analysis of the independent restaurant market. The first edition features results of a comprehensive survey on independent restaurant operator practices, attitudes and trends as they relate to distribution sources.

GS1 News: New Case Studies Featuring Pocono ProFoods and Tyson Foods

Read how Pocono ProFoods implemented a campaign to collaborate with suppliers in publishing accurate and comprehensive product data, and then provided sales reps and their customers with online access to this information.

SMart 2017: Pixar's Matthew Luhn to Provide Insights on Crafting Your Brand's Story

If you have responsibility for the story around your brand, Matthew Luhn can help take you to the next level. Think about Pixar films like Toy Story 2, Finding Nemo, Ratatouille, or UP and you are witnessing Luhn at his craft — great storytelling. Luhn is now sharing his insights as a consultant and speaker and is featured July 17 at the IFDA SMart Conference in Chicago.

GS1 News: Dick Tracy of Dot Foods Discusses Standards Role in Driving Innovation

Each month GS1 US distributes a newsletter to members of the initiative to keep interested parties up-to-date on initiative news, implementation resources, educational offerings, and more. IFDA is now sharing the monthly newsletter through our website.