Things change fast in today’s business climate, with new government regulations, the vast competition, formulation updates, new tools and equipment—even staff. To stay on top and get ahead, the Tortilla Industry Association (TIA)’s 25th annual conference and expo at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, May 30-31, provided the latest information on the key topics the tortilla industry needs to not only survive, but to thrive and prosper.

Recognized as the most important event for anyone involved in the tortilla industry, the two-day event presented an exhibition featuring the latest technology, services, equipment, components, ingredients, packaging and systems exclusively for the tortilla and flatbread industry, as well as morning educational seminars, covering topics such as immigration reform, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and commodity prices.

This year’s theme, “A World of Tortillas,” focused on a variety of business topics, including running a factory profitably and efficiently, and food safety. The ample tradeshow spotlighted tortillas, flatbreads, wraps, chips and related equipment and materials, as well as offered attendees opportunities to network with buyers and sellers of products and services for the industry.

TIA CEO Jim Kabbani reports that the convention experienced a 10% increase in exhibitors and a 20% jump in attendance. The event also offered a platform on which visitors could find and compare products and services exhibited by several companies that are involved in the production of tortillas, flatbreads, wraps and chips.

Educational sessions also brought topics to light that are relevant for everyday tortilla manufacturing, such as ingredient functionality; recent changes to Obamacare; the latest on the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA); preventative controls for human food; and an update on commodity prices and recommended strategies.

Further conference details can be found at www.tortilla-info.com.