Upcoming Events
Registeration Closes Soon for the Supply Chain Expert Exchange Spring Conference in Chicago
Connect with your restaurant supply chain peers May 15 - 16, 2025 at the Swissotel Chicago during the Supply Chain Expert Exchange Spring Conference!
With an agenda developed by leaders working in foodservice supply chain, this is the only conference created by and for restaurant supply chain professionals.
The conference is only open to operators and those who work in supply chain management for restaurant or hospitality companies.
All restaurant operator attendees will receive free admission to the National Restaurant Association Restaurant Show, May 17-20.
Register For the Spring Conference Here.
AGENDA - Thursday, May 15th
11:00 AM – 1:30 PM Registration Desk is Open
11:00 AM - 1:30 PM Photographer Headshots are available
1:30 PM Conference Begins
1:45 PM – 2:35 PM Growth, Supply Chain and Leadership: A Conversation with Mike Manzo, C.O.O. of Jersey Mike's Franchise
Few brands have achieved the level of growth and consistency that Jersey Mike’s has under the leadership of Mike Manzo, Chief Operating Officer. In this candid, on-stage conversation, Mike shares the supply chain decisions, leadership philosophies, and operational strategies that have helped fuel the company’s expansion. From supplier partnerships to managing complexity at scale, hear firsthand what it takes to build and sustain a high-growth brand in today’s market.
2:35 PM – 2:55 PM Networking Break
2:55 PM – 4:25 PM Interactive Networking and Problem Solving Roundtables: Choose your Conversation
Connect with peers, tackle key challenges, and exchange ideas in this curated networking and problem-solving session. Choose from three expert-led discussions, each designed to dive into critical foodservice supply chain topics. This is your opportunity to engage with others facing similar challenges, share ideas, and walk away with fresh perspectives and actionable solutions. Each session is interactive, Q&A-driven, and focused on what matters most to you.
4:30 PM Wrap up, Day 2 Preview
6:00 PM Busses depart for offsite dinner and reception
AGENDA - Friday, May 16th
7:30 AM – 8:20 AM Breakfast
8:30 AM – 8:35 AM Opening Remarks
8:35 AM – 9:25 AM Commodity Outlook: A Macro Overview of What's Moving Markets and Why it Matters with with John Barone, President, Market Vision Inc.
The only certainty in today’s market? Things are moving fast. Join John Barone, President of Market Vision and leading commodity analyst, for a timely, no-nonsense breakdown of the key macroeconomic forces shaping foodservice supply chains. From commodity price volatility to tariffs, inflation, and supply shocks, John will unpack the trends that matter most—and what they could mean for your sourcing, costs, and strategy in the months ahead. If you’re making procurement decisions, this is a session you can’t afford to miss.
9:25 AM – 10:15 AM A Conversation with Andrea Cherng, Chief Brand Officer at Panda Restaurant Group: Brand Growth, Supply Chain and Partnerships
Andrea Cherng, Chief Brand Officer at Panda Restaurant Group, sits down for an in-depth interview on what it takes to scale and sustain one of the largest restaurant brands in the country. Joined by Roland Ornelas, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Panda Restaurant Group and Brock Furlong, President & CEO at Stampede Culinary Partners, this discussion will explore how supply chain strategy, brand vision, and supplier relationships come together to fuel Panda’s success. Hear firsthand how a major operator navigates growth, manages partnerships, and adapts to a rapidly changing industry.
10:15 AM – 10:40 AM Networking Break
10:40 AM – 11:50 PM Commodity Breakout Sessions - The Markets Shaping Your Supply Chain: Grains & Oils, Dairy and Protein (Choose 2)
Go beyond the big picture and take a closer look at the commodity categories directly affecting foodservice supply chains. In this interactive breakout session, choose two of three expert-led discussions on Grains & Oils, Dairy, and Protein. These deep-dive conversations will examine key price drivers, supply chain pressures, and sourcing challenges, providing a more granular perspective on what’s happening now and what to watch for in the months ahead. Each session includes an open Q&A, giving you the chance to discuss specific issues impacting your procurement strategy.
Choose two of three expert-led discussions:
• Grains & Oils with Bill Lapp (Advanced Economic Solutions)
• Dairy with Eric Meyer (HighGround Dairy)
• Protein with Len Steiner (Steiner Consulting Group)
11:50 PM – 12:30 PM Lunch
12:35 PM – 1:25 PM Beyond the Dashboard: How AI is Reshaping Foodservice Supply Chain
AI is no longer a distant concept—it’s actively transforming foodservice supply chains in ways few fully understand. In this thought-provoking discussion, explore how AI-driven technology is optimizing procurement, forecasting, and supply chain operations for major restaurant and QSR brands. What’s real, what’s next, and how can supply chain professionals think differently about technology’s role in their business? This session provides a high-level but candid look at the power and potential of AI in foodservice.
1:25 PM – 1:55 PM State of the Restaurant Industry Amid Uncertainties, with Chad Moutray, Vice President Research and Knowledge, National Restaurant Association
Restaurant operators continue to grapple with rising costs and a more cautious consumer base—two factors that directly impact profitability. While consumer spending has shown resilience, bolstering U.S. economic growth, ongoing policy and economic uncertainties could challenge the outlook. This session will highlight the current state of the restaurant and foodservice industry, offering key insights into the economic and political landscape, including tariff, supply chain and other political uncertainties.
1:55 PM - 2:25 PM Networking Break
2:25 PM – 2:55 PM Eggs: Supply Challenges and What's Next for Foodservice with Nate Hedtke of the American Egg Board
Egg supply has faced significant disruption, with HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) and other industry pressures creating uncertainty for procurement teams. Nate Hedtke of the American Egg Board, will provide a comprehensive update on the current state of egg production, supply availability, and key industry challenges affecting foodservice operators. With eggs being a critical ingredient across menus, this session will offer valuable insights on what’s happening now and what could be ahead.
2:55 PM – 3:55 PM Keynote Speaker: Mark Bowden, Body Language Expert and Best-Selling Author, Stand out, Win Trust and Gain Credibility every time YOU speak!
The best negotiators, leaders, and relationship builders know that communication goes far beyond words. Mark Bowden, world-renowned expert in body language and human behavior, will take the stage to reveal how nonverbal cues shape every interaction—whether with suppliers, vendors, or your own team. In this high-energy, engaging session, Mark will demonstrate how you can project confidence, build trust faster, and take control of the room—before you even speak. Walk away with practical techniques you can immediately apply to strengthen negotiations, enhance leadership presence, and sharpen your influence in any setting.
3:55 PM – 4:00 PM Conference Wrap-up
Past Events
Mark Bowden, Spring Supply Chain Expert Exchange Conference Keynote
Great supply chain management isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. How you communicate, how you're perceived, and how you handle high-pressure conversations can make all the difference in negotiations, supplier relationships, and team leadership.
That’s why we’re excited to announce Mark Bowden, world-renowned body language expert, bestselling author, and top-rated speaker, as the keynote speaker at the Supply Chain Expert Exchange Conference, May 15-16 at the Swissotel Chicago.
Mark has trained business and political leaders, worked with Fortune 500 companies, and advised organizations like American Express, Toyota, NATO, and even the US Army. His expertise in nonverbal communication will give you a practical, immediately useful edge in negotiations, contract discussions, and managing complex relationships.
Join us in Chicago for strategies that will help you strengthen trust, command the room, and recognize the unspoken signals that influence every deal and decision.
Watch this video to learn more and register today!
Orlando Fall Conference November 5 - 6
UPDATE:
We have rescheduled the Supply Chain Expert Exchange Fall Conference for Wednesday, November 6th, immediately prior to Market Vision in Orlando. If you were registered to attend the October conference, you have already received email from Kayost@restaurant.org with information on how to re-book your hotel room. The room block closes Monday, October 28 at 5:00 PM EST.
If you are planning on attending both conferences, please book your flight to be here for the Conference Opening at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 6 at the latest. Our Welcome dinner and reception will be held Tuesday evening November 5th at 6:30pm.
NEW AGENDA:
Tuesday, November 5
6:30 PM - 9:00 PM Opening Reception/Dinner and Registration
Wednesday, November 6
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Breakfast & Registration
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Informal Networking
11:00 AM - 11:10 AM Opening Remarks
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM CEO Spotlight: Paul Macaluso, Another Broken Egg Cafe
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM Lunch
12:45 PM - 1:15PM Making the Move: People Management
1:15 PM - 2:05 PM How to Sharpen Your Decision making Skills with Dhamu Thamodaran
2:05 PM - 2:15 PM Networking break
2:25 PM - 3:20 PM Networking Roundtables, 2 rounds
3:20 PM - 3:55 PM Emerging Issues Discussion - Carl Mount, Jack in the Box
3:55 PM - 4:00 PM Conference Wrap-Up
Spring 2024 Supply Chain Expert Exchange Conference May 16-17 in Chicago, Register Now!
Connect with your restaurant supply chain peers May 16 - 17, 2024 at the Swissotel Chicago for the Supply Chain Expert Exchange Spring Conference!
With an agenda developed by your industry peers, this is the only conference created by and for restaurant supply chain professionals.
The conference is only open to restaurant operators and those who work in supply chain management for restaurant or hospitality companies.
The first 100 restaurant operators who register for the conference and book their room using the link in their confirmation email will receive a complimentary standard hotel room the night of Thursday, May 16.
All restaurant operator attendees will receive free admission to the National Restaurant Association Restaurant Show, May 18 - 21.
Register Here!
Agenda
General Session – Zurich Ballroom
Meals – Vevey
Networking Breaks – Zurich Pre-Function
Reception & Dinner Thursday Evening – Offshore Rooftop (Transportation Provided)
Thursday, May 16
11:00 a.m.
Registration Desk Opens
Zurich Registration
2:00 p.m.
Conference Welcome & Kick Off
Speaker: Kristi Kingery, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain, Tropical Smoothie Cafe
2:15 p.m.
Operational Excellence with Charles Watson: Navigating Growth At Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Join us for an in-depth conversation with Charles Watson, CEO of Tropical Smoothie Cafe, as we delve into the operational strategies and logistics that have propelled the brand to over 1,300 cafes in 44 states. Gain insights into the leadership philosophies and decisions that have guided one of the fastest-growing restaurant franchises in the U.S and the critical role supply chain plays. This conversation will be a blend of professional wisdom and personal narrative, offering a unique perspective on achieving success in the foodservice sector during uncertain times.
3:15 p.m.
Networking Break
3:45 p.m.
Traceability – How prepared are you for FSMA Implementation?
This session offers a unique lens on traceability from the viewpoints of operators, distributors, and suppliers. Learn from the experiences of industry peers as we navigate the complexities of implementing robust traceability systems to meet FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act) requirements. Discussion will include insights that may even transform your view, highlighting the benefits awaiting on the other side of compliance.
4:25 p.m.
Day One Wrap-Up
Speaker: Dessi Zaneva, Vice President of Strategic Sourcing, Jersey Mike's Franchise Systems, Inc.
6:00 p.m.
Buses Begin Loading for Reception & Dinner at Offshore Rooftop
6:30 p.m.
Reception & Dinner
Offshore Rooftop, 1000 E Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
Friday, May 17
7:30 a.m.
Breakfast
8:30 a.m.
Opening Remarks
Speaker: Kristi Kingery, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain, Tropical Smoothie Cafe
8:40 a.m.
Navigating Commodities: Economic Forces, Trends and Your Questions Answered
Speaker: Dhamu Thamodaran, Advisor, National Restaurant Association Supply Chain Expert Exchange
Experience Dhamu's distinctive, data-driven, and engaging take on the ever-evolving commodities market. You’ll get practical knowledge geared for the unique foodservice needs, deepening your understanding of market dynamics for strategic decision-making. This year, the format adds a fresh twist: after a 30-minute overview, the floor will open for a Q&A session. So come prepared with your questions to make the most of this opportunity!
9:30 a.m.
Regulatory Roadmap: What’s ahead for the Foodservice Supply Chain
Speaker: Laura Abshire, Director of Food and Sustainability Policy, National Restaurant Association
Are you ready for the next Prop 12? This session covers the latest rules and upcoming regulations shaping the foodservice industry. Learn how these changes could influence operators and their supply chain partners, equipping you with the knowledge to prepare for future challenges and adapt pathways for success.
10:00 a.m.
Networking Break
10:40 a.m.
Distribution – TBD
11:20 a.m.
What is Keeping Supply Chain Executives Up at Night?
Moderator: Joel Neikirk, Chief Executive Officer, Restaurant Services, Inc
Panelists:
Kirsten Michulka, President and Chief Executive Officer, Independent Purchasing Cooperative
Anissa Mandell-Chance, President, ARCOP, Inc.
James Butler, Senior Vice President & Chief Supply Chain Officer, Brinker International
This session addresses the pressing concerns and challenges facing today's foodservice supply chain leaders. We’ll cover a range of hot topics, from emerging issues and government regulations to the next significant challenges on the horizon. Hear from leading supply chain executives as they share insights and predictions on what lies ahead in our post-COVID world.
12:00 p.m.
Lunch
1:00 p.m.
Roundtable Discussions
Our most popular session! Learn from industry peers, share your own experiences and grow your network while discussing what’s most important to you. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with peers in a small group format and participate in two roundtable discussions each lasting 30 minutes. Table guides will ensure lively and interactive conversations, making sure everyone has a chance to share and take away actionable solutions.
2:30 p.m.
Networking Break
3:00 p.m.
Session - TBA
4:00 p.m.
Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence
In this discussion our speakers will explore how emerging technologies and digital advancements are reshaping security and privacy landscapes. With a focus on practical implications for the foodservice supply chain, you’ll get insights on the complexities of data protection, mitigating cybersecurity threats, and leveraging AI for enhanced operational efficiency.
4:40 p.m.
Closing Remarks
Fall 2023 Supply Chain Expert Exchange Conference
Join us October 16-17, 2023, in Orlando, Florida for the National Restaurant Association Supply Chain Expert Exchange Fall Conference.
Learn from industry leaders, share your own experience, and grow your network so you’ll be ready to face the industry’s most pressing challenges.
We’re excited to once again be hosting the event prior to the Market Vision Fall conference giving the restaurant supply chain community the opportunity to network with and learn from leaders in the foodservice industry.
Don’t miss the ONLY event created by people that run restaurant supply chains.
Monday Oct 16
3:00 PM Registration desk opens
6:15 PM – Welcome Networking Reception and dinner at the beautiful Rosen College of Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida. Transportation will be provided.
Tuesday October 17:
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Opening Remarks
9:15 AM - From Data to Action: Understanding Key Economic Indicators with Dhamu Thamodaran, Advisor, National Restaurant Association Supply Chain Expert Exchange
In today's highly competitive and rapidly changing food service industry, understanding and effectively managing economic indicators is essential for optimizing the supply chain. In this conference session, Dr. Dhamu Thamodaran will shed light on the crucial economic indicators that foodservice professionals must grasp, monitor, and interpret to make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and drive efficiency throughout their supply chain.
10:05 AM - Navigating Difficult Conversations: Having difficult conversations can be challenging, but with the right mindset and effective communication strategies, we can transform them into valuable opportunities for growth, understanding, and building stronger relationships. This panel, brought to you by the Women’s Foodservice Forum (WFF), will offer insights from senior leaders sharing their personal experiences and lessons learned that have helped them to navigate challenging conversations, cultivate candor and move forward with mutual understanding and trust, both personally and professionally.
10:55 AM - Networking Break
11:25 AM - Solutions Focused Networking: Get ready to supercharge your networking game while problem solving with peers during the first of two separate Roundtable Networking sessions. We’ve designed this time for you to share ideas and solutions to common problems in the foodservice supply chain industry while expanding your professional network. In each session, you can join a targeted discussion from the topic list below to get fresh perspectives on industry-specific challenges. These conversations will be facilitated so that everyone has a chance to share and take something valuable away.
12:05 PM - Lunch
1:00 PM - Shift Your Brilliance – Act Like an Employee and Think a CEO (Creative Engagement Optimist) With Simon Bailey. Shift Your Brilliance invites every team member to be accountable for their performance, lead without a title, embrace a fluid career vision rather working in-person, remotely, or as a hybrid. Be a transformational thinker by doing common work in an uncommon way. Based on his bestseller – Shift Your Brilliance – Harness the Power of You, Inc. Every attendee will receive a complimentary copy of Simon’s book Shift Your Brilliance.
1:50 PM - A Conversation with Kevin Hourican, Sysco CEO: Kevin will sit down with Charlie Lousignont and share his professional journey to lead the world's largest foodservice distributor which began with his graduate degree in Supply Chain Management. He will talk about his own professional development and offer his perspective on keys to success. Kevin will discuss best practices from his experience in the retail sector and how that can be applied to Foodservice. He will also share insight on how suppliers and buyers partnerships have changed since the pandemic and how technology is reshaping our industry.
2:40 - Afternoon Session: More Solutions Focused Networking: The learning and networking continue! In our second Roundtable Networking session, we're revisiting the same engaging topics from the morning session. This gives you the opportunity to dive deeper into focused discussions and gain fresh perspectives on industry-specific challenges. Table guides will ensure lively and interactive conversations, making sure everyone has a chance to share and take away actionable solutions.
3:15 PM - Networking Break
3:45 PM - Negotiations - How to Increase the Value of your Deals with Brian Buck, Chief Executive Officer, Scotwork
Upskill your negotiators with this engaging session presented by Brian Buck, the CEO of Scotwork®, the world’s number one independent negotiation consultancy. This interactive program will delve into the art of negotiating and drive home the five things you should be doing to increase the value of your deals. You will gain valuable insights, practical tips, and proven strategies to enhance your negotiation prowess in both personal and professional settings. Don't miss this opportunity to refine your skills and empower yourself as a proficient negotiator.
4:50 PM - Conference adjourns