Aug 1, 2005
WASHINGTON, DC — August 1, 2005 — An intensive, 40-session education program and a broad-ranging exposition featuring top food industry suppliers will highlight the 2005 Productivity Convention and EXPO, the premiere annual event designed for food distribution professionals working in the areas of transportation, information technology, human resources and logistics.
     

Jointly sponsored by the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) and the International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA), the convention will be held October 23-25 at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.
     

Under the theme “Delivering Solutions for Competitive Advantage,” the convention will feature speakers from across the industry — retail and wholesale operators, foodservice distributors, consultants, government officials and experts from various disciplines — addressing key subjects such as transportation and distribution logistics, technology and human resources. Sessions will be presented in multiple formats, including general sessions, workshops, roundtable discussions and idea exchanges.   
     

The overall theme is built around a series of distinct issues:


  • Advances in transportation and distribution systems are dramatically changing food distributor operations, improving bottom line results, service levels and accuracy.


  • Technologies such as radio frequency identification, wireless communications, voice-driven delivery systems and automation are a reality and forever changing the supply chain.


  • Contemporary human resources and labor relations concepts are delivering top line results.


  • New industry approaches and equipment enhancements are driving risk management successes and improving workplace safety.

The convention will feature an exhibit floor with 150 supplier companies, the unveiling of new industry research, tours of distribution facilities and a variety of networking and special events, including the 19th Annual Truck Driving Championship.

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2005 FMI/IFDA Productivity Convention and EXPO
Event Fact Sheet

Multifaceted Education Program Divided Into Eight Distinct Modules


  • Disaster Recovery Planning

  • Financial Management for Warehousing and Distribution

  • Voice Technology in Distribution

  • Warehouse Management Systems and Warehouse Automation

  • Industry Research and Best Practices

  • Safety and Risk Management

  • Human Resources and Labor Relations

  • Supply Chain Technology and Supply Chain Issues

Idea Exchange Breakfasts


Informal roundtable breakfast discussions centered around contemporary industry topics — will be held on Monday morning, October 24.


“Great Idea” Sessions


Moderated discussions where ideas on improving distribution operations can be put on the table, discussed and explored in a friendly, relaxed environment — will be held the afternoon of Monday, October 24. There are forums tailored for foodservice distributors and for retail distributors.

Productivity EXPO


The Productivity EXPO will feature more than 150 product and service providers that support food distribution operations. Vendors will include companies specializing in material handling equipment, facility design, pallets/containers, transportation, information technology and communications software and more.


Distribution Facility Tours


Tours of distribution facilities operated by Publix Super Markets, Inc. and SYSCO Food Services of Central Florida, Inc., will give convention attendees a unique opportunity to gain operational insights on the distribution systems, procedures, technologies and special practices in use at these facilities. Pre-registration is required.


19th Annual Food Industry Truck Driving Championship


Drivers from foodservice distributors, retail food wholesalers, self-distributing chain retailers and food manufacturers will compete in the 19th Annual Food Industry Truck Driving Championship, a three-part “roadeo” October 21-23 immediately before the convention opening. The competition includes a written exam, driving competition and pre-trip safety inspection. Drivers will compete in three separate categories: 20/22-foot straight truck, 28-foot tractor-trailer and 48-foot tractor-trailer.


Breakthrough Research


Data from two new FMI research reports — the 2005 Distribution Center Benchmark Study and 2005 Transportation & Fleet Maintenance Study — will be unveiled. In addition, results from two new IFDA research reports will be shared, including the new IFDA Operations Benchmark Report and the 2005 Distributor Productivity Financial Report. These studies report the latest benchmark results for warehouse and transportation costs, productivity, service levels and other key areas.


Networking and Social Events


Networking and social events are available on each day of the convention.


For complete details, please visit the Productivity Web site at www.productivityconvention.com.