WASHINGTON, DC — January 26, 2004 — The latest trends in food distribution, supply chain efficiency and updates on bioterrorism, country of origin labeling and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) highlight the 2004 Distribution Conference. Presented by the Food Marketing Institute (FMI), the conference will be held March 14–17, at the Kiawah Island Resort, Kiawah Island, SC.

“It is imperative for food retail and wholesale companies to keep up with emerging technologies and constantly changing consumer demographics,” said Conference Chair Gerry Greenleaf, vice president, distribution, Hannaford Bros. Co. “This conference is the ideal forum for distribution, logistics, warehousing and transportation executives to discuss the latest trends and challenges facing the industry today.”

The conference offers intensive, informative and interactive educational sessions and a full slate of business networking opportunities. Session topics include:

• Skills of a First-Line Supervisor…Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow — Ranking of the top competencies to watch for and evaluation tools and techniques for companies to put into action.
• Efficient Inbound Freight Management…from Purchase Order to Receipt Description — Improving management of inbound freight by enhancing product visibility across the supply chain.
• Backhaul Fairness — The Manufacturer and Distributor Customer Pick-Up/Backhaul Fairness Statement presents a framework to help retailers, wholesalers and suppliers reduce transportation costs and improve service industry-wide.
• The Supermarket Industry Speaks — Annual review of trends and issues impacting and changing the food retail and wholesale industry.
• Data Synchronization: Past, Present and Future — Logistics and distribution efficiencies uncovered by the six leading companies involved in the most recent ATKearney study.
• Impact of Country of Origin Labeling and Bio-terrorism Act on Business Practices — Latest information on the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 and the Public Health Security and Bio-terrorism Preparedness and Response Act and how they will impact the food industry and its distribution centers.
• Technology Role in Logistics…Substituting Information for Activity — Comparison of today’s technology with what was in place two years ago, including efficient use of resources, fuel efficiency, reduced trip times, and customer service enhancements.
• Supply Chain Efficiency and Effectiveness…Unlocking the Secrets of the Future Supply Chain — Real-life examples of innovative processes, systems and relationships that challenge traditional approaches to merchandising, logistics and store operations.
• Selection Accuracy — Selection accuracy and order fulfillment using technology and business processes.
• RFID Technology — Real-life application of Radio Frequency Identification technology, future opportunities and implications for your logistics and distribution organizations.
• Managing Health Care through Personal Wellness — Personal wellness and increased consumer health education to drive sales and reduce expenses related to health care costs.

A golf tournament, sponsored by The Facility Group, will kick off the conference on Sunday, March 14, from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. A companion’s tour of Charleston will also be offered.

For more information or to register for the Distribution Conference, please contact Pat Shinko (202-220-0705, pshinko@fmi.org) or Kaari Oberg (202-220-0716, koberg@fmi.org) or visit http://www.fmi.org/events/.