AFFI-CON Exchange

New in 2027: A Smarter Way to Kick Off AFFI-CON

The AFFI-CON Exchange is a new Friday experience featuring industry insights, peer learning and intentional networking, all designed to help you get more from AFFI-CON.

Separate registration is required to attend the AFFI-CON Exchange. Registration is available for $125 for AFFI members and $250 for non-members.

Why Attend?

Gain Industry Insights

Hear timely perspectives on trade, global supply chains, food safety and business growth.

Learn from Leaders and Peers

Join keynote conversations, panels and interactive roundtables.

Build Relationships

Start making connections before AFFI-CON business meetings get underway.

Make Friday Count

Arrive informed, connected and ready for the days ahead.

Who Should Attend?

The AFFI-CON Exchange is designed for all AFFI-CON attendees. Whether you’re looking to stay ahead of industry trends, strengthen your network or gain new perspectives, the Exchange provides value for every attendee.

Schedule

Friday, February 26

1:00 PM – 1:15 PM

Welcome and What’s Ahead for Frozen

1:15 PM – 2:45 PM

Trade and the Global Frozen Supply Chain

A look at U.S. frozen food import trends and evolving trade and enforcement priorities affecting companies serving the U.S. market.

Speakers:

Shawn Jarosz, Founder & Chief Trade Strategist, TradeMoves

James Amyx, Member, Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A

Part I | The Facts: What U.S. Import Data Shows
Explore sourcing trends, import growth, key countries of origin and shifts shaping the U.S. frozen food marketplace.
Part II | Expanded Enforcement at the Border: Enhancing Trade Compliance in Global Supply Chains
Explore evolving enforcement priorities and practical steps companies can take to strengthen supply chain due diligence.

3:15 PM – 4:00 PM

Food Safety and Quality in a Global Marketplace

What does it take to maintain confidence in products serving the U.S. marketplace, regardless of where they are produced? This discussion will explore food safety, quality, testing, supplier expectations and regulatory oversight across a global supply chain.

Michael Roberson, Director of Corporate Quality Assurance, Publix

4:00 PM – 4:45 PM

Investing in the Future of Frozen

What does it take to fund growth in today’s food business? A conversation about how frozen food companies are investing in new capacity, automation, technology and acquisitions, and how they are thinking about the capital needed to support those investments.

Robert Schnitzer, Senior Vice President, Business Development, Rosenthal Capital Group

4:45 PM – 5:15 PM

AFFI-CON Exchange Roundtables

Join industry colleagues for facilitated discussions and intentional networking on the most pressing topics in frozen food operations. Connect with peers and help identify solutions to the challenges and opportunities facing the frozen food supply chain today.

Facilitated peer discussion tied to the day’s themes.

Trade and the U.S. Marketplace
What changes in global sourcing, trade policy and enforcement are having the biggest impact on your business? What should AFFI be watching?

Food Safety and Quality Across the Global Supply Chain
Where are you seeing changing expectations around testing, supplier verification, quality and regulatory compliance? Where could AFFI add value?

Investing in Growth
Where are companies investing over the next few years? What is driving decisions around facilities, automation, technology and capacity?

Workforce and Leadership
What talent, workforce or leadership challenges are most likely to affect your ability to grow?

5:15 PM – 5:30 PM

Closing

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM

AFFI-CON Exchange Reception

Ready to get more from your AFFI-CON experience?

Contact the AFFI events team to add to your registration today.