2023 Foodservice Conference Winners Reflect on Recent Awards; International Fresh Produce Association's Kyle McMillan Comments
NEWARK, DE & WASHINGTON, DC - Winner, winner, produce-centric dinner! After showcasing the versatility and opportunities provided by the fresh produce industry, four standout winners were recently honored during the International Fresh Produce Association’s (IFPA) Foodservice Conference on July 28.
“The energy on the floor this year was unmatched,” said Director of Trade Shows Kyle McMillan. “Much of that was influenced by the passion, creativity, and excitement brought by our many exhibitors. We are so happy to be able to celebrate a few of these exhibitors who stood out to our judges. Congratulations to our winners, and to all our exhibitors who made the judging such a difficult job.”
The annual contest recognized first and second place Best of Show winners as well as Best Produce Promo winner. In addition, Foodservice Award-winning chefs also chose the winner of the new Chef’s Choice Award. As IFPA noted in a press release, the chefs walked away with a list of new menu ideas and were able to provide real menu-developer feedback to the exhibitors.
Booths are judged on staff engagement, professionalism, and communication; booth design, clarity, and ability to welcome; and products/messaging, such as visual appeal, communication, and promotion.
The following winners were announced on the expo floor:
- Best of Show – First Place: Rijk Zwaan
- Best of Show – Second Place: Sun Orchard
- Best Product Promo: Califresh – Fresh Green Chickpea hummus
- Chef’s Choice: Ocean Mist® Farms – Baby artichoke risotto
“Our exhibitors are a critical part of growing produce consumption through foodservice,” McMillan added. “As always, we’re floored by the creativity, the passion and the fun our exhibitors have sharing their products each year in Monterey.”
Next year’s Foodservice Conference will take place July 25–26, 2024 in Monterey, California. Booth applications are now open.
To find out what these four winners had to say as they reflected on their wins, click here.
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