Elmhurst, IL – You asked for it. We delivered! The ADPI/ABI Annual Conference was bigger and better than ever. With record-breaking attendance, the 2013 conference drew more than 850 industry professionals, making it the largest annual gathering ever.
Co-hosted by the American Dairy Products Institute and the American Butter Institute, this year's event addressed the manufactured dairy product industry's latest challenges, obstacles and opportunities with presentations from a wide range of speakers, including industry executives, government officials and academics.
Challenges, Obstacles & Opportunities
The opening panel discussion dove right into the heart of the industry as panelists outlined the topics to watch for that will have economic impacts for the dairy industry in the areas of weather, feed, global growth, production and pricing.
Top industry chief executives shared their vision of dairy opportunities in future years. Several panelists agreed that the rise in the percentage of U.S. products exported will likely be a target area of focus. As dairy ingredients continue to grow, manufacturers need to utilize the latest technology so dairy ingredients maintain their healthy image in finished food products.
Other topics covered at the two and half day event include industry relations and opportunities with China, traceability issues and practices, milk protein concentrate as an ingredient and the announcement of the ADPI Center of Excellence.
Networking, Fast Bidding & Recognitions
ADPI was proud to recognize the hard work and achievements of industry leader Phillip S. Tong as he was honored as the recipient of the 2013 ADPI Award of Merit. ADPI also highlighted the achievements of two students who are both currently earning their degrees as well as working in the processed dairy industry. Emily Schlein and Amanda Keenan were honored as the recipients of the 2013 Jim Page Memorial Scholarship.The 2013 Conference also featured a Silent Auction that was held during the Grand Chicago Reception where fast bidding and high bids raised over $5,000 to benefit the Jim Page Memorial Scholarship Fund. Auction item highlights included autographed memorabilia signed by Super Bowl San Francisco 49er Quarterback Colin Kaepernick, jewelry and resort stays.
Thank You Sponsors
ADPI and ABI would like to thank all of this year's sponsors for helping truly make this an unforgettable conference!
The 2014 ADPI/ABI Annual Conference will be held April 27 – 29, 2014 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago in Chicago, Illinois.
"Unleashing the Power of Dairy Ingredients"
ADPI – The American Dairy Products Institute is the leading national trade association representing manufacturers and marketers of dairy-based ingredients. ADPI's sole mission is to increase the worldwide use of dairy ingredients by marshaling the technical, manufacturing, and marketing resources of its members and others. For more information, visit our website at www.adpi.org.
Source: The American Dairy Products Institute