FEDA's Connection Corner is our networking space aimed at fostering connections focused on building relationships through networking among participants while enjoying refreshments.

The Young Industry Leaders Reception is an opportunity for emerging and established young leaders in the industry to reunite and network with their peers. For any member of FEDA’s Young Industry Leaders or conference attendees between ages 21 and 46.

Start networking over drinks and hors d’oeuvres at the conference’s opening reception.

Kick off the 2025 FEDA Annual Executive Leadership Conference with this opening night networking event!

FEDA's Connection Corner is our networking space aimed at fostering connections focused on building relationships through networking among participants while enjoying refreshments.

8:30-8:35 a.m.
Welcome and Chairman's Opening Remarks
Featuring FEDA Chairman Marc Tell, President, Sam Tell Companies

8:40-9:00 a.m.
State of the Industry Reports
Featuring Mark Rossi, CEO, Avanti Restaurant Solutions, and Erik Lampe, President and CEO, The Vollrath Company

9:00-9:55 a.m.
Dealer Focus: Supply Chains of the Future Presentation
Featuring Chad Autry, Professor of Supply Chain Management, University of Tennessee

10:25 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Keynote Presentation: From Good to Great Leaders
Featuring Jim Collins, Business Researcher and Author of Good to Great

These roundtable discussions will bring together dealers, manufacturers, and other industry representatives in parallel conversations to explore shared business challenges from their unique perspectives. Aligned with themes from the day’s general session speakers, the discussions will encourage open exchange, deeper understanding and new ideas for improving outcomes and driving growth.

Pickleball is a fun and easy-to-learn tennis-like game that is playable by all skill levels. Network with FEDA conference attendees over a doubles pickleball match. The event includes paddles, balls and beverages. Teams will be based on number of players on site.

Meet up with fellow conference attendees for a fun putting challenge at the Gainey Ranch putting course.

Enjoy refreshing cocktails and hors d'oeuvres as you mingle with fellow foodservice equipment and supplies industry professionals.

FEDA is again excited to be recognizing the unique achievements of members during the Gold Awards presentation. All winning companies will be featured in FEDA News & Views, the FEDA weekly newsletter, social media and other eblasts, and receive an insignia designating their specific honor to use in their own communications.

8:00-8:20 a.m.
Media Insights on the FE&S Industry
Featuring Joe Carbonara, Editor in Chief of FE&S Magazine.

FEDA's Connection Corner is our networking space aimed at fostering connections focused on building relationships through networking among participants while enjoying refreshments.

One of the most cited authors on the economics of information, Erik Brynjolfsson was among the first researchers to measure the productivity contributions of IT. Brynjolfsson's special guest presentation at the FEDA conference will focus on the future of artificial intelligence and what it means for businesses, the economy and the workforce. He’ll also share insights into how companies can harness the possibilities of new technology and the best ways to incorporate AI into business strategies.

10:00-10:35 a.m.
The Digital Economy, AI and the Future of the Workforce
Featuring Erik Brynjolfsson, Professor and Senior Fellow at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI, and Director of the Stanford Digital Economy Lab

The Early Tech Adopters is a work group of dealers that assesses the potential of technologies, including those developed by the DP+Q Partners, and shapes their development to ensure they meet the needs of the foodservice equipment and supplies industry.

FEDA will close out the 2025 conference with one final chance for attendees to network and meet with their peers and colleagues in a relaxed setting, perfect for decompressing after three days of learning and connecting. The Last Night in Scottsdale event will offer live music, food and drinks amidst the seclusion of the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale.