The Specialty Food Association has added a digital component to its in-person Fancy Food Show 2021, which will take place September 27-29 at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York. Called Fancy Food 24/7, the digital component will run from September 27 through October 8.
The hybrid event will combine in-person and digital elements that allow different options for attending, and will showcase thousands of specialty food and beverage products.
“After a whirlwind of three successful Specialty Food LIVE! digital events over eight months, our industry is very excited to have the best of both worlds with a hybrid event,” said Bill Lynch, president of the SFA. “Whether navigating the show floor in person - or via Fancy Food 24/7 - buyers, makers, and press will have ample opportunity to make connections, discover new products, and virtually attend education programming.”
Here are some things to anticipate in September:
SAFFE – Safe at Fancy Food Events: procedures designed to keep the B2B community safe, the special SAFFE logo alerts and informs attendees about safety information.
Javits Center safety measures: social distancing measures will be in place and enforced, and masks must be worn inside the venue. Everyone at the Show must have their Show badge visible and, upon entry, must present one of the following:
Vaccinated individuals - proof of vaccination via a paper form, a digital application or through New York State’s Excelsior Pass.
Unvaccinated individuals - proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test result (PCR test within 72 hours or antigen test within 6 hours).
Fancy Food 24/7: running September 27-October 8, the digital component of Fancy Food Show 2021 provides access to exhibitors from around the world; education programming, and Main Stage events happening from October 4-8. Sessions include State of the Specialty Food Industry annual research; SFA Trendspotter Panel discussion; a panel highlighting retailers, and “The Basics Online," the popular course for beginners to the specialty food industry.
Incubator Village: up-and-coming, innovative makers from around the country.
What’s New at Fancy Food: products launched as of February 2020.
Product sampling: samples will be available on the Show floor via individual packages and distributed under strict safety measurements.
Food rescue: any remaining samples from the show will be donated by the Specialty Food Foundation to longtime SFA partner, City Harvest, New York City’s largest food rescue organization.
“The events industry plays a critical role in supporting New York’s economy, and we are excited that the Fancy Food Show will help to revitalize our businesses and lead our industry forward,” said Alan Steel, president and CEO of the New York Convention Center Operating Corporation, which operates the Javits Center. “We are honored to work with the event’s organizers and exhibitors to develop a safe and effective event that serves audiences around the world while reinforcing the importance of face-to-face business. See you in September!”
Related: Fancy Food Show 2021 to Take Place in September; Specialty Food LIVE! By the Numbers.