It’s hard to believe that we’re already off to a fast start this year, and it’s February. So many projects, events and new takes on old classics are in the works this month, as we prepare for more tradeshows, meetings and spring conferences. In planning for the spring convention season, don’t forget to check out the latest coverage on SNAXPO 2012, March 16-19, in Phoenix at the Phoenix Convention Center. Celebrating 75 years of success, the Snack Food Association will again be host to what is likely the largest, most comprehensive tradeshow devoted exclusively to the international snack food industry. SNAXPO 2012 will bring owners, executives and buyers from every segment in snacks, and is one of the best opportunities to drive new business, generate leads and promote your brand. Exhibiting at the show will expose you to more than 1,500 domestic and international snack food management professionals from more than 50 countries. From networking receptions and member meetings to educational sessions, new and emerging equipment technology and processes, and a Latin American program conducted entirely in Spanish, the action-packed event should not be missed.
On tap this month is a visit to Kangaroo Brands, a family-owned and operated Milwaukee bakery/snack producer that produces a variety of pita products including a hot new line of light and crunchy pita chips that are as tasty and better-for-you as they are innovative. Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery takes a tour of Kangaroo’s “chip plant,” a 72,000-sq.-ft. production facility devoted specifically to the company’s prosperous snack business. New packaging and extended shelf-life technologies factor into the developments at the facility, as do new flavor introductions, speedy throughput and value pricing. They are all reasons why Kangaroo Brands is “pocketing” our 2012 Snack Manufacturer of the Year award.