Specialty Food Magazine is the leading publication for retailers, manufacturers and foodservice professionals in the specialty food trade. It provides news, trends and business-building insights that help readers keep their businesses competitive.
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1194330
What do you see on the horizon for the Specialty Food Association? Q: WHAT'S AHEAD Some members of the Specialty Food Association Board of Directors share their thoughts on SFA's future. Nona Lim, founder, Nona Lim As the SFA grows, I see more members becoming involved who are from other parts of the food ecosystem, beyond just makers and buyers. This will bring more diversity, innovation, and thought leadership to the membership and continue to establish the SFA as the thought leader in the industry. We're also seeing more millennials, and other diversity in the food space bringing different perspectives and skill sets. I am excited about this and about the SFA's move towards more diversity and inclusivity. I believe we will see that reflected in the SFA committees and Board in the future. Trish Pohanka, vice president of strategic marketing for BrandStorm Inc./Natierra The implementation of our new membership program provides the platform for a more inclusive community of specialty food professionals. By removing past restrictions to joining our Association, opportunities abound for members of our industry, past, present, and future, to experience the benefits we provide. Beyond the trade shows, networking opportunities, resources, and valuable A – Z business programs will continue to be developed to guide our members on the path to success and strengthen our SFA family of tasty and trendy entrepreneurs. Becky Renfro Borbolla, vice president, Mrs. Renfro's I see the SFA tackling the issues that hurt our members whether it is tariffs or FDA regulations. I love that the SFA has webinars that our members can be involved in and that it keeps members up to date on the latest news with our fast- changing world. The SFA Board approved new member Speak Ups that happen at the Winter and Summer Fancy Food Shows. They are a forum for members to discuss the topics they are dealing with. What a great sounding board to have members discussing day-to-day challenges. Every member just wants their business to grow and the SFA is helping members do this. WINTER Julie Gallagher is managing editor of Specialty Food.