You can also attend workshops geared specifically towards growers. The morning Wholesale Success Workshop will teach growers about the needs of buyers and also include a section on food safety taught by the USDA. You will also hear from Rock Star Farmers who will tell their story of successfully selling into Wholesale Markets. Afternoon panels include discussions with restaurants and school food administrators who are seeking local food.
Here’s the lineup:
Trade Show floor open 1-6
Workshops
10-11:15 AM Preparing for Wholesale Success
Helping farmers understand the needs of wholesale buyers, including food safety requirements.
* Jerry Berney - USDA
* Bob Scaman - Goodness Greeness
* Jim Slama - Family Farmed Expo
11;30 12:45 Rockstar Farmers
Four leading farmers share their experiences at growing & selling wholesale and/or direct.
* Tom Beddard - Lady Moon Farms
* Richard de Wilde - Harmony Valley Farms
* Adam DeGroot - Co-owner of Triple A Farms
* Vicki Westerhoff - Genesis Growers
2:00-3:15 Greening Your Restaurant
Tips on greening your restaurant from leading experts who have done it. Learn about greening facilities, operations and maintenance from the water you use to the furniture you choose..
* Jason McLeod – The Elysian Hotel
· Randy Zweiban – Province
· Dan Rosenthal – Green Restaurant Association (moderator)
3:30 – 4:45 Getting Local Food & Drink Into Your Restaurant
Farmers, restaurants, and distributors have a discussion about ways to further connect local food with restaurants.
* Cleetus Friedman – City Provisions
* Bruce Sherman – North Pond /Chefs Collaborative
* Danny McGowan - Big Bowl
* Rink DaVee – Green & Green
· Ron Cropper – Goodness Greenness (moderator)
6 pm - Meet the Buyers Networking Reception
There are small, mid-size and large scale buyers attending, depending on your niche. It’s a great way to build relationships with new buyers in the hot Chicago Market for local food!
7 pm Localicious Party
|
