association news
Message from President Phil Kafarakis
The range of experience in our industry is enormous. From
start-ups piloted by young, energetic entrepreneurs, to
more established businesses with somewhat grayer heads
at the helm, we are a microcosm of American business
ingenuity. The winners of our Lifetime Achievement
recognition, profiled in this issue, are sterling examples of
how enriching a career in specialty food can be.
As we watch the changes taking place at large corporate
food companies, we can remain heartened by specialty
food's continuing growth and innovation. While the "big guys" seem to be struggling for
relevance and changing too slowly to address consumer trends, we're on top of it!
The energy we bring to the national economy and our communities is immeasurable—
it's more than just dollars and cents, it's about having a positive local impact, acting
sustainably, re-purposing, maintaining traditions, and exploring technological possibilities.
Lifetime Achievement isn't the only thing we celebrate at SFA. Our annual Leadership
Awards focus on the good work SFA members are doing for their employees, neighbors,
and the world. The stories our winners share are inspiring and I look forward to hearing
them every year. They're just the tip of a larger iceberg too.
I urge you to attend the Leadership Awards ceremony in San Francisco during our Winter
Fancy Food Show. You'll have a chance to hear our winners firsthand and to meet them
after the ceremony. They'll give you stories and ideas that you'll want to take home and
share with friends and colleagues.
Of course, the show itself should not be missed. Have you registered yet? Go to
fancyfoodshows.com to sign up today. We look forward to seeing you in California,
January 21 – 23. We have some great surprises in store!
Phil Kafarakis
President, Specialty Food Association
Follow me @PresidentSFA
Message from the President
FALL 2017 21
