2017 IFDA Distribution Solutions Conference

Utility Reefers Spotlight Food Safety

The International Foodservice Distributors Association’s (IFDA) Distribution Solutions Conference (DSC) is a key venue to showcase solutions that can make the foodservice supply chain more efficient, safe and profitable.

Held at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland from October 15 – 17, this year’s event was themed “Work Smarter, Better, Faster”. It offered numerous workshops on various topics, including regulatory compliance and effective strategies to comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Utility showcased two high-spec’d 3000R refrigerated trailers built for US Foods and Richmond Restaurant Supply.

“The conference’s theme Work Smart, Better, Faster is something we take to heart at Utility,” said Craig Bennett, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing. “For example, ‘better’ is what you see in our 3000R refrigerated trailer design. It reflects an on-going commitment to build reefers that exceed FSMA requirements. Our commitment begins with our foam mandrel process. It provides a 360 degree, 100% void-free foam insulation that delivers optimum thermal efficiency. It’s also noteworthy that the interior of our reefer is without fasteners. This eliminates potential points of entry for moisture and pathogens to enter into the wall of the trailer.”

On the final day of the event, it was announced that the 2018 Conference will feature an enhanced focus on innovation and disruptive technology, including an Innovation and Technology Pavilion on the show floor, an Innovation & Technology Track, and a keynote address from Ray Kurzweil, one of the world’s leading inventors, thinkers, and futurists. Additionally, IFDA announced the launch of a new C-Suite Executive Summit that will coincide with the conference going forward. Next year’s event will take place in San Antonio, TX on October 28 – 30, 2018.