instore - July 2017 - 19

cover story

Reaching a
crossroads
by John Unrein and Ryan Atkinson

The record-setting IDDBA show
breaks new ground in retail
foodservice and convenience

here was a clear message during IDDBA 17 in Anaheim,
California. The ever-evolving world of retail foodservice is
changing even more rapidly right now. Younger shoppers,
changing shopping habits, increased attention on food quality and
more are causing shifts in the industry. IDDBA - the show and organization - is changing in an effort to better serve retailers and suppliers.
"We are at a crossroads for our industry," says Mike Eardley, president
and chief executive officer of the IDDBA. "How do we get the whole
Millennial generation involved in dairy, deli, bakery? We really need to
get new talent and new people interestingly involved."
One big step, according to Eardley, is to solidify the IDDBA's role and the
mission of the annual conference and expo to revolve around sharing
expertise and mentoring young talent with insights and education.
"As (IDDBA speaker) Molly Fletcher said in her presentation, give the
advice, get the sale. We want to be more than a trade show, and we
think that's the future," Eardley says. "This year, we have the most individuals to attend our show (a record 10,280). We're really thrilled."
As one new feature, the Show and Sell Express offered ideas to engage
with on-the-go shoppers and creative ideas for merchandising fresh
concepts in the c-store format. It featured a milkshake vending
machine and ways to enhance the customer's c-store experience.

"There are over 150,000 convenience stores in the U.S. - one for every
2,000 people," Eardley says. "Those folks have to start creating fresh
foods connections, and they come here as a secret weapon to find out
more about fresh food. Today, it's all about eating occasions, and we are
a lot less departmentalized. The consumer doesn't care what department they shop anymore. They just want to eat."
Expert Neighborhood was also a new added value to the show that
gave attendees the opportunity to meet with industry experts and
professionals one-on-one. Experts included former CEO's, company
founders and principles, authors, consultants, and FDA employees.
They talked with attendees about everything from regulations and
menu calorie labeling to innovation and profitability.
The New Product Showcase was a destination for attendees looking
for unique and innovative trends all in one place. Exhibitors had the
opportunity to personally merchandise in this special display. With
225 shelves of products, attendees got an all-encompassing look at the
newest and latest cutting-edge products, packaging, and services.
Show and Sell featured everything from demos on charcuterie,
cheese and olives to grocerant-style areas where attendees could
order food and have it delivered to their table. There was a 4-foot
Lightning McQueen cake with a scene from his movie that evolved
over the course of the show. It also featured a cheese pub with
different pairings and chefs offering techniques and samples during

The IDDBA Show and Sell Center showcased on-trend
applications like charcuterie and grocerant-style areas.

instore * JULY 2017 * 19

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of instore - July 2017