Agenda

Insights that matter. Connections that last.

With an agenda built by supply chain professionals in the restaurant industry, we're dedicated to delivering content that's both practical and actionable, adding real value to your experience.

Agenda

Thursday, May 15

 

11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Registration desk  is open 
 

11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Professional Headshots Available
 

1:45 - 2:35 p.m.

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 - 2:55 p.m.

Networking Break
 

2:55 - 4:25 p.m.

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 p.m.

Day One Wrap-Up
 

6:00 p.m.

Buses Begin Loading for Reception & Dinner
 

6:30 p.m.

Reception & Dinner
 

Friday, May 16

 

7:30 - 8:20 a.m.

Breakfast
 

8:30 - 8:35 a.m.

Opening Remarks
 

8:35 - 9:25 a.m.

Commodity Outlook: A Macro Overview of What's Moving Markets and Why it Matters 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 -10:15 a.m.

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 - 10:45 a.m.

Networking Break
 

10:45 - 11:45 a.m.

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.

11:45 a.m. - 12:25 p.m.

Lunch
 

12:35 - 1:25 p.m.

Beyond the Dashboard: How AI is Reshaping Foodservice Supply Chain, with Palantir Technologies

AI is no longer a distant concept—it’s actively transforming foodservice supply chains in ways few fully understand. In this thought-provoking discussion, a leader from Palantir joins an industry expert to 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 - 1:55 p.m.

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 landscape.

1:55 - 2:25 p.m.

Networking Break
 

2:25 - 2:55 p.m.

Eggs: Supply Challenges and What's Next for Foodservice with 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. A representative from 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 - 3:55 p.m.

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 p.m.

Closing Remarks