Industry executives from across the nation and 37 countries worldwide participated in SNAXPO 2007, the largest trade show for the snack food industry. The Snack Food Association’s annual convention was held March 24-27 at the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa in Hollywood, Fla.

“We’re here to meet our U.S. customers and also existing and new customers from other parts of the world,” commented Tom Barber, regional director-Americas, Aeroglide Corporation.

Moreno Grendene, export area manager, Mafin S.p.A., also enjoyed the opportunities provided by the show. “Our objective here is to evaluate the new trends and to have a better understanding of the complexity of the U.S. market,” he said. “We’re here to see the new things in order to understand the direction we have to take our future development. The networking here is something we also like. So far, it works.”

SNAXPO opened with an all-day Latin American Educational Program presented in Spanish, featuring discussions of industry trends, developments and issues of concern.

The day concluded with a Latin Themed Beach Party that included great food, a beachside bonfire, a live salsa band, Flamenco dancers and even hand-rolled cigars.

The keynote speaker on Sunday, March 25, was author Charles Fishman, who discussed the impact of Wal-Mart on the industry and the economy. Concurrent educational sessions, the presentation of the Circle of Honor Award, and an International Reception on the Show Floor also took place that day.

Monday featured an address by incoming chairman Tom Dempsey, executive vice president, Utz Quality Foods, Inc.; the annual State of the Industry report from Information Resources, Inc.; and a full day of trade show activity in the exhibit hall, which also was open for business Tuesday morning.

Attendees participated in the SnackPAC Tennis and Golf tournaments on Tuesday afternoon. The proceeds went to the SFA’s government affairs program. The 1st Annual Tribute to Sponsors & Exhibitors Reception and Gala was celebrated on Tuesday evening.

“We were delighted with the turnout and the quality of the presentations and discussions,” said SFA President & CEO Jim McCarthy. “Many exhibitors reported that the contacts made on the exhibit floor were worthwhile, that they were able to speak with decision-makers who were there to do business.”