The 2023 Winter Fancy Food Show will focus on uplifting diverse voices in the specialty food industry. Aki Cipriani, VP of talent and culture at the Specialty Food Association spoke with SFA News Daily about what attendees can expect from some of these initiatives and look out for at the Show.
What diversity-related programs does the SFA have planned for the Show?
There are a variety of diversity programs being implemented at the upcoming Show. However, I would like to shed light on two specific programs: the Diversity Pavilion and (included).
The Diversity Pavilion will host exhibitors that are certified as one or more of the following: U.S. Veteran, Serviced Disability Veteran, LGBTQ, Disabled Person, Asian, Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, Native American or Alaskan Native, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise. This section of the show floor celebrates makers from traditionally underrepresented communities who are united by their shared passion for specialty food.
Building on its 2022 Summer Fancy Food Show success, we are thrilled that the (included) initiative will be part of the 2023 Winter Fancy Food Show. (included) is a membership collective of CPG companies led and mostly owned by Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian, and other CEOs of color dedicated to mutual success, advocacy for diverse representation, and a commitment to amplifying BIPOC voices and brands in the specialty food industry. The SFA continues to invest in creating a more inclusive specialty food industry and will sponsor 10 BIPOC makers from (included) at the 2023 Winter Fancy Food Show.
Will there be any way to identify the diverse-owned businesses that exhibit at the Show?
Exhibitors that self-declare diversity status will receive a floor decal and sign indicating “DEI Exhibitor.”
What does the Specialty Food Association hope to achieve by implementing diversity programs?
SFA’s diversity programs are the embodiment of our commitment to attract and retain employees, volunteers, third-party partners, and members that reflect diverse experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives to best serve the diversified profile of makers, buyers, distributors, brokers, and service providers in the food and beverage industry. We strive to create a culture of inclusion and belonging where all these individuals feel valued, respected, and have the opportunity to thrive.
Is there anything more you would like to share?
SFA is committed to being an inclusive organization that champions diversity and equity within our membership, at our events, and throughout the industry. Our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI) Committee will continue to explore opportunities to accomplish this overarching organizational goal.
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