Conference highlights included industry awards, a fireside chat and technology panel
Some of the most influential voices in New Jersey’s food retail and distribution industry gathered at Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino on April 8 for the New Jersey Food Council’s (NJFC) Annual Trade Relations Conference.
The theme of the conference was “Emerging Technology & Emerging Opportunities,” giving the state’s preeminent food industry leaders the opportunity to examine the future of trade relations and emerging technologies in this critical space.
“Trade relations is a key mission of the Food Council; it is the significant business relationships between food retailer, supplier, c-store operator, broker, co-op, and wholesaler members that drives our beyond-essential $136 billion food distribution industry in New Jersey,” said Jason Read of Wawa, chairman of the NJFC Board of Directors.
As is the tradition, the annual conference exemplifies NJFC’s dedication to staying ahead of emerging trends and shaping the next generation of ideas in food distribution, he added.
The conference celebrated NJFC’s successful campaign to encourage New Jersey legislators to pass the Organized Retail Theft Bill, which Gov. Phil Murphy signed April 1. The sweeping legislation, driven by NJFC at every turn, increases penalties for certain types of retail theft.
“I want to recognize the magnificent passage of the NJFC-inspired Organized Retail Theft Bill,” NJFC President Linda Doherty said in her opening remarks. “It was an amazing display of NJFC collaboration with our Loss Prevention members and Board members who invested so much effort into this impactful outcome.”
Matt Lipowski of J&J Snacks accepted the Jimmy Ostling Trade Relations Award at the event, a special recognition given annually to an individual who brings together all aspects of the food business, stimulates thoughtful ideas, enhances trade goals, participates actively in Food Council priorities and supports the overall mission of the statewide association.
In addition to his role at J&J Snacks, Lipowski serves as Vice-Chair of the Leadership Development program at NJFC, allowing him to build on his passion for engaging with emerging talent in the food industry.
Presenting the award was none other than its namesake, Jimmy Ostling, who was a former colleague of Lipowski’s at BIMBO Bakeries.
“Throughout Matt’s career, he has demonstrated a deep understanding of trade relations, ensuring that partnerships between manufacturers, retailers, and customers are built on trust, collaboration, and mutual success,” Ostling said. “Beyond his professional achievements, Matt’s dedication to mentorship and leadership development is truly inspiring.”
Following the award presentation, Joe Fantozzi, President of Allegiance Retail Services, took the stage for a fireside chat alongside Lou Scaduto Jr., President & CEO of Food Circus Supermarkets, where the two industry veterans had an in-depth discussion about the hot topics of the conference.
Attendees also heard from a talented panel of visionaries using technology to enhance how food retailers interact with customers and collaborate with suppliers. The panel was moderated by Lawrence Inserra III, president of Inserra Price Rite.
“Our panel of industry experts examined the cutting-edge tools and trends currently shaping the future of food trade,” Inserra said. “By examining these trends, we aimed to provide valuable perspectives on the evolving intersection of technology and commerce—helping businesses adapt, innovate, and seize new growth opportunities in today’s competitive marketplace.”
The panel of experts included:
● Nawshi Williams, VP of Analytics & Insights, CROSSMARK
● Kenny Olson, VP of Growth/Product Strategy, In-Store Connect by Quad
● David McIntosh, Chief Connected Stores Officer, Instacart
The conference concluded with a “Curtain Closer” golf outing held April 9 at Galloway National Golf Club in Galloway Township.
