NJ Food Business Leaders Discuss Future of the Industry

On May 17, 2016

Discussing the latest market trends and innovations, more than 250 leaders from New Jersey’s food retail and distribution businesses gathered in Atlantic City to discuss the future of the food industry.

The New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) 2016 Trade Relations Conference featured presentations from John Derderian, president of Allegiance Retail Services, on the “State of the Food Industry” and Tim O’Conner, Managing Partner of the Retail Performance Group on “Retail Transformation 2020.”

“We are thrilled to have so many of the state’s leaders in the food industry here with us in Atlantic City to discuss the latest trends, innovations and digital focus of the food business,” said NJFC President and CEO Linda Doherty. “John and Tim provided insightful presentations that bring a new perspective on retail challenges in the New Jersey marketplace. Both presentations provided an excellent opportunity for members to consider how to deal with ‘market disruptors’ and other future changes that are sure to impact our industry.”

Additionally, Debbie Pregiato, Customer Team Leader for Advantage Solutions, was honored with the New Jersey Food Council’s Max Stone Trade Relations Award. Debbie is the first woman to receive this prestigious recognition.

“Debbie’s role as a leader on our new member development campaign, business partnerships with NJFC members and her continuous dedication to the advancement of the Food Council’s mission made her an obvious choice,” said Doherty. “Debbie has forged long lasting food industry relationships and is a role model as a respected trade relations leader.”

The Max Stone Award is named in honor of the longtime trade relations leader for Best Foods, CPC in recognition of his accomplished career in trade relations in New Jersey.

The Conference began with a highly-anticipated Supermarket Chef Cook-off and concluded with an industry-wide golf outing sponsored by NJFC.

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