Date: May 14, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM EST
Location: Charlotte Convention Center Hall B
Venue Address: 501 S College St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Customers receive automatic price discounts on all eligible products delivered from 6/2/25 – 7/26/25 just for attending the show. They don’t have to commit to these items at the show to get the discount; it will happen automatically. Off – invoice discounts are not offered to program accounts with contract pricing.
Please Note: Adults Only
As part of our commitment to providing a professional environment for all guests, no children under the age of 18 are permitted in our shows. Culinary Students under 18 are welcome at the show after 1:00pm. One adult chaperone per 10 students is required.
Attend presentations and earn free Continuing Education Unit (CEU) credits.
ANFP and ACF members can earn up to 3 continuing education units (CEUs) by walking the exhibits. Watch for the post show email to request your certificate.
“Peak Productivity: Practical Tips to Empower your Team”
10:00 – 10:30 am
In today’s competitive landscape, maximizing productivity is essential for non-commercial foodservice operations. Yet, with fast paced day to day activity, it’s easy to ignore the fundamental principles that drive efficient operations. This seminar focuses on the power of “back to basics” productivity tips you can implement today for your non-commercial foodservice success.
CEU: .5 ANFP, .5 ACF
“Food Safety Face-Off”
10:45 – 11:15 am
Game-on! This interactive seminar takes a game-style approach to reviewing common food safety violations and the rules that keep everyone safe. Learn to avoid costly citations and gain winning strategies for a safe and secure foodservice operation.
CEU: .5 ANFP, .5 ACF
A fully revamped presentation line-up for independent operators and their teams. A new food show experience that educates AND inspires!
“Hiring and Retention Strategies” – Patrick Cairoli, North American Customer Success Manager, Gordon Food Service
10:00 am
Are you struggling to find good hires? Many industries are facing the same challenge. Let’s discuss some effective strategies like understanding your competition, unpack how today’s potential employees view benefits and expectations, communication methods and even setting the stage for longevity on that important first day. Adapting and staying consistent with these strategies can make a significant impact. Remember, “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” Let’s work through this together!
“Swicy Food Rules” – Patrick Cairoli, North American Customer Success Manager, Gordon Food Service
11:30 am
We’re going to be diving deep into the delicious world of ‘swicy’ – a tantalizing blend of spicy and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. We’ll explore how this exciting culinary concept can elevate your dishes with unique flavor profiles from around the world. And to get your creative juices flowing, we’ll be sampling a variety of swicy ingredients, and showing how they can create some truly unforgettable signature dishes.
“Menu Engineering Strategy” – Patrick Cairoli, North American Customer Success Manager, Gordon Food Service
1:00 pm
In today’s competitive restaurant landscape, maximizing profitability is crucial for any owner/operator. This presentation delves into the powerful tool of menu engineering, empowering you to transform your menu from a simple list into a strategic profit driver. Learn how to analyze your offerings, optimize food cost percentages, and achieve a healthy balance between food cost percentages and contribution margins. Additionally, we’ll explore the importance of standardized recipes and operating procedures in ensuring consistent quality and efficient execution.
Customers can park for free at the NASCAR Hall of Fame parking garage located next to the convention center. Please bring your parking pass to the Information Booth at the Show for parking validation.
Immerse yourself in a captivating journey of flavors and culinary delights as our shows transports you to vibrant kitchens, sizzling stovetops, and mouthwatering dining experiences, leaving you hungry for more.
© 2025 Gordon Food Service. All Rights Reserved.