Schedule 2025
Business-to-business meetings, professional networking opportunities, and education covering key industry issues.
All AFFI-CON events, unless otherwise noted, take place at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. View the hotel map to help you navigate the hotel property. All events will be monitored, and non-members and non-registrants will be asked to leave.
AFFI-CON Registration, Company Showcases, Chill Out Zone, and Semi-Private Tables are open from Saturday to Monday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Reunion Foyer & Reunion Ballroom. Negotiation Nooks are open on Tuesday from 7a.m. to 3 p.m. All times on the schedule are Central Standard Time.
Friday, February 21, 2025
COOL Women Kick-Off Session – Sponsored by Superior Foods International, Brecon Foods, OPC, Riviana
This is the first meeting of the COOL (Creating Opportunities for Outstanding Leaders) Women program, a dynamic leadership development program designed exclusively for women in the frozen food industry. Learn more and register by clicking here.
Cross-border Trade and Tariffs in 2025 — Risks and Opportunities under Trump 2.0
Just three weeks after election day 2024, President-Elect Trump proposed new tariffs on key trading partners – including Canada, Mexico and China. As early as Inauguration Day 2025, the Trump Administration is expected to announce the level of new tariffs to be applied, which trading partners will be targeted, and when those tariffs will come into effect. With AFFI-CON 2025 starting 30 days later, join us for a session to hear more on the current trade landscape for U.S. buyers and foreign sellers as well as strategies and discussions that our industry should consider to help mitigate new tariffs.
Founder & Chief Trade Strategist, TradeMoves
Company Showcase Move In
Event Registration
Frozen Forward: CEO Insights on Industry Trends and Strategies – (AFFI Members Only)
Exclusive for AFFI CEO members, Leo Feler, Numerator Chief Economist, will provide attendees with an in-depth discussion on trends and insights specifically impacting the frozen food industry. This unique opportunity will provide valuable perspectives on market dynamics, consumer behavior, and future growth potential in this sector. Don’t miss out on the chance to gain expert knowledge directly from industry leaders!
President and CEO, AFFI
Chief Economist, Numerator
Saturday, February 22, 2025
Event Registration
Business Meetings
This time slot is designated for organizing business meetings. Registered attendees can view the complete registration list and schedule appointments in advance to optimize their experience at AFFI-CON. Officially registered AFFI-CON delegates wear badges. AFFI strictly enforces that delegates decline invitations for meetings with individuals or companies not registered for the convention.
Chill Out Zone – Breakfast sponsored by Simplot
This café-style common area serves as a central meeting point for attendees to get energized and engage in organic business discussions. Featuring a range of refreshments and tasty snacks, it’s the ideal space to recharge and connect with peers. Join us in this dynamic setting where productivity meets relaxation, fostering valuable connections and facilitating fruitful conversations throughout the event.
7:00 AM – 9:00 AM Breakfast Bowls Provided By: 
Compliance Quality Quest: Decoding FSMA and Traceability
Embark on the “Quality Quest” and unlock the secrets to mastering FSMA, traceability, and GFSI compliance. This session is crafted for QA professionals dedicated to excelling in food safety and quality standards.
EVP of Science & Policy, AFFI
Lunch and Learn: Economic Overview
Join us for lunch and an insightful session examining the current state of the economy and its impact on the food industry. Gain valuable perspectives on market trends, consumer behavior, and economic forecasts to inform strategic decision-making and navigate challenges and opportunities.
Chief Economist, Numerator
AFFI Food Safety Working Group Meeting
Don’t miss this session focused on AFFI’s top food safety priorities. Get a detailed look at our efforts to address foodborne pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes and enteric viruses, as well as evolving chemical food safety regulations. Learn about AFFI’s strategies for the implementation of best practices, public policy engagement, and our work with regulators to improve food safety and public health.
Why Attend:
- Stay ahead of policy changes under the Trump administration impacting the frozen food industry.
- Discover actionable strategies for managing Listeria and enteric viruses.
- Engage with industry leaders to explore critical food safety solutions and innovative capabilities that address today’s most pressing challenges in the frozen food industry.
This session is a must-attend for anyone committed to food safety and public health. Join us to be part of the conversation!
Welcome Icebreaker: A Showcase of the Latest Flavors in Frozen – Sponsored by MB Global & Nortera
Get ready to break the ice and set the stage for an unforgettable conference experience! Dive into a world of innovative flavors and cutting-edge creations while networking with industry professionals. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to visit the exhibit floor, where logistics providers and other key suppliers and services await. Discover the resources and connections that will enhance your business journey in the frozen food industry.
Live Band & Acoustic Entertainment Provided By:
Sunday, February 23, 2025
Event Registration
Business Meetings
This time slot is designated for business meetings. Registered attendees can view the complete registration list and schedule appointments in advance to optimize their experience at AFFI-CON. Officially registered AFFI-CON delegates wear badges. AFFI strictly enforces that delegates decline invitations for meetings with individuals or companies not registered for the convention.
Chill Out Zone
This café-style common area serves as a central meeting point for attendees to get energized and engage in organic business discussions. Featuring a range of refreshments and tasty snacks, it’s the ideal space to recharge and connect with peers. Join us in this dynamic setting where productivity meets relaxation, fostering valuable connections and facilitating fruitful conversations throughout the event.
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Mac & Cheese Station Provided By:
Listeria Quality Quest: Piloting the Future of Frozen Manufacturing
Join us for an exclusive session where QA professionals from AFFI member companies will discover AFFI’s pioneering efforts in Listeria control and regulatory excellence in frozen foods. Learn about our innovative pilot program targeting ready-to-eat (RTE) foods to inhibit Listeria growth, setting new benchmarks in detection and quantitation of Listeria spp. Gain insights into transformative techniques and technologies shaping Listeria management and future food safety standards. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay ahead in Listeria management and regulatory compliance, and lead innovation in the frozen food industry.
EVP of Science & Policy, AFFI
Senior Vice President of Scientific Affairs, AFFI
Lunch and Learn: Warming Up Consumer Frozen Consumption – Sponsored by VISAFRUIT
Stay ahead of the evolving frozen foods landscape with a complete view of the market. This session will examine in-home and away-from-home consumer purchases and consumption trends throughout the day so you can uncover opportunities that align to consumer needs.
Global EVP & Chief Advisor, Consumer Goods & Foodservice Insights, Circana
Senior VP & Food Industry Advisor, Circana
Women’s Networking Happy Hour – Sponsored by Superior Foods International, Brecon Foods, OPC, Riviana
Recognize Woman of the Year winner
FROZEN FOODPAC Reception
Please join us for an engaging and informative discussion about the FROZEN FOODPAC. This event will feature Dr. Andrea R. Ramirez, a distinguished leader with broad expertise in policy and advocacy. Dr. Ramirez has held key roles in the White House Office of Public Liaison and the White House Initiative for Hispanics in Educational Excellence during the previous Trump Administration, where she spearheaded coalition building and policy development. Dr. Ramirez will offer a unique perspective on how the FROZEN FOODPAC plays a vital role in advancing the frozen food industry’s priorities through targeted advocacy efforts.
Former Trump White House official, executive, leadership consultant
Dueling Pianos Bash (Separate ticketed event) – Sponsored by ArdoVLM – Louie Louie’s Piano Bar
Registration Add-On – $50/person (must be 21+)
Join us for a celebration of the frozen food industry at Louie Louie’s Piano Bar. Enjoy an unforgettable dueling piano show featuring two talented pianists performing at face-to-face grand pianos. The high-energy performances include audience requests driving the show—so come prepared with your favorite song! Be sure to register early as space is limited. This after-dinner event is a fantastic opportunity to relax and network with your business partners in a fun and engaging atmosphere.
Return transportation: AFFI will provide shuttle service from Louie Louie’s to the Hyatt Regency Dallas. Shuttle hours: 10:00 PM – 12:00 AM.
Monday, February 24, 2025
Event Registration
Business Meetings
This time slot is designated for business meetings. Registered attendees can view the complete registration list and schedule appointments in advance to optimize their experience at AFFI-CON. Officially registered AFFI-CON delegates wear badges. AFFI strictly enforces that delegates decline invitations for meetings with individuals or companies not registered for the convention.
Chill Out Zone
This café-style common area serves as a central meeting point for attendees to get energized and engage in organic business discussions. Featuring a range of refreshments and tasty snacks, it’s the ideal space to recharge and connect with peers. Join us in this dynamic setting where productivity meets relaxation, fostering valuable connections and facilitating fruitful conversations throughout the event.
Frozen Forward: Enteric Virus Control and EViews Real-time Risk Management
Delve into the critical issue of enteric virus control, where our experts will provide insights into effective measures and best practices for mitigating risks associated with these pathogens. Learn about the latest advancements and protocols designed to protect the safety and integrity of frozen berries from farm to retail.
Discover the EViews real-time risk management tool, a revolutionary solution that offers comprehensive visibility and control throughout the berry supply chain. See how EViews enhances risk assessment and management from production through distribution, providing actionable data to ensure continuous safety and quality.
EVP of Science & Policy, AFFI
Senior Vice President of Scientific Affairs, AFFI
Lunch and Learn: AFFI Annual Membership Meeting and Keynote
AFFI’s Annual Membership Meeting will include a vote on 2025 Officers and Board of Directors, Finance Report, an update on AFFI’s 2025 strategic priorities and opportunities for AFFI members to engage. Following the Annual Membership Meeting, join us for an insightful session with Mark, a veteran of the Oil and Gas industry with over 25 years of experience. As a market research company founder and host of the world’s largest Oil and Gas podcast network, Mark reaches over 3 million listeners worldwide. He will share his deep industry knowledge and unique perspectives on current trends, challenges, and opportunities, illustrating the impact of global conversations and industry dynamics. Don’t miss this chance to learn from a leading expert and influential media voice in the sector.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief of the Oil and Gas Global Network (OGGN)
Closing Reception: Through the Generations Mixer
Join us for the Closing Reception to wrap up an inspiring and productive event. This informal gathering offers a perfect opportunity to network with fellow attendees, reflect on the insights gained, and celebrate the highlights of the convention.
