The official numbers are in, and it looks like just about every previous Dairy-Deli-Bake (IDDBA) show record has been broken by this year’s turnout.
As we previously reported in our own IDDBA experience, the show was held in the huge Georgia World Congress Center space in Atlanta, Georgia. My perception before of exactly how big the show floor was has now been humbled thanks to the actual tally.
The registered attendee record of 8,727 was blown away by this year’s 9,322 registrations, while the sold-out expo’s booth count set a new score at 1,902.
Among the 740 companies represented, roaming attendees included top-tier retail buyers, merchandisers, executives, food manufacturers, brokers, distributors, and additional leading industry professionals, according to a press release.
As we listed in our previous coverage, the show not only included displays for all aspects of the industry, but also key speakers and insights. Notable names on the extensive list included:
IDDBA Chairman of the Board, Dave Leonhardi, and IDDBA President and CEO Mike Eardley were also among the insightful speakers.
Incorporating both new and traditional aspects of the expo, the IDDBA’s Show & Sell Center was reportedly a success, featuring live demonstrations, tastings, and innovative merchandising while incorporating IDDBA’s new-this-year Show & Sell Center Workshops. Another new feature was a redesigned New Product Showcase, where exhibitors were able to display new items in a special area for increased floor presence.
The benefits of the show aren’t over just because the show is. Attendees can still use the myIDDBA App to network, access speaker materials, and other resources, and if you enjoyed our one-on-one interviews with both the CEO of 100+ year old Finlandia Cheese Emma Aer and the Marketing Director for Alexian Alexandra Groezinger, there’s still more to come.
So stay tuned.
