SPEAKERS

With the midterm elections quickly approaching, this session will detail the political environment as the campaign season kicks into gear, driven by U.S. political analyst Eli Yokley's decade of research at Morning Consult. What issues will matter amid ongoing cost-of-living concerns — from energy to grocery bills? Which voters can candidates lean into? How will the contests impact public policy and legislation in the short- and long-term? Will the election outcomes impact the future of the MAHA movement? Join Eli Yokley as he discusses the current political vibes and possible pathways for election outcomes both nationally and in key states.

Food prices shape everyday decisions. This talk examines the drivers and consequences of food price inflation in the United States, from supply chain disruptions and shifts in consumer spending to the impact of tariffs, trade policy uncertainty, and geopolitical shocks that translate into real-world impacts at the grocery store. Beyond these traditional pressures, a new set of disruptors is compounding the picture, including the rise of GLP-1 medications reshaping household purchasing patterns, new dietary guidelines that discourage highly processed foods, and evolving consumer trends. Together, these forces are redefining what Americans buy, what they can afford, and what comes next.

Leadership in uncertain times isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being grounded enough to move, human enough to connect, and intentional enough to give people a reason to move with you. This keynote offers a practical, human-centered approach to leadership in challenging times. Drawing on behavioral science and decision-making research, Dr. Suzanne Johnson explores how leaders can stay grounded, regulate pressure, and create clarity through vision, meaning, and connection. Participants will leave with practical guidance for leading decisively, sustaining momentum, and supporting their teams when certainty isn’t an option.

It has been one year since the Administration launched a new tariff agenda and began efforts to remake how trading partners interact with the U.S. With one year of experience with legal, practical and regulatory matters, where does the flavor industry stand? What comes next? And most importantly, what can the flavor industry do to be as resilient and prepared for the future as possible. Doug McKalip will provide perspective and an outlook for the industry.

The food industry is entering a period of unprecedented scrutiny and transformation. Consumers, policymakers and health professionals are questioning not just what we eat, but how our food is made. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs), ingredient lists, labeling transparency and corporate responsibility are no longer niche concerns -- they are central to purchasing decisions and brand trust. Read more here.

The modern food consumer is evolving at an unprecedented rate, driven by a variety of factors ranging from technological advancements to economic conditions, health consciousness, and cultural shifts. This session will explore the behaviors and motivations of today's consumer, providing insights into their purchasing patterns, methods, and underlying reasons. We will examine the latest research findings and discuss potential future trends in the consumer landscape.