The organizers behind the International Dairy Deli Bakery Association’s upcoming IDDBA 2024 show said the three-day event was designed to be the place where the industry comes to see the latest trends and newest solutions.

Slated for June 9-11 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, the association’s annual industry-only show is expected to draw more than 9,000 attendees, representing 28 countries.

IDDBA also expects a sold-out show floor, with 800-plus exhibiting companies that operate within the world of dairy, deli, bakery, c-store and foodservice. The organization developed its large-scale show to help industry professionals foster relationships, grow business, and experience the latest products and trends in the market.

With members from roughly 1,500 companies – from small independents to global corporations – the non-profit association aims to foster economic growth by providing year-round opportunities for professional dialogue, education, the exchange of industry data and selling occasions.

A prominent part of IDDBA 2024 in Houston will include large dairy companies that supply retail dairy aisles and specialty cheese departments. Many dairy industry heavy hitters will be exhibiting, including California Milk Advisory Board, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin and the Illinois Department of Agriculture. Plus, the show will have dedicated sections for equipment and business services.

The annual experience was developed to attract serious buyers, merchandisers, and executives passionate about food and the industry, by offering insights and networking.

“IDDBA, for us, is a great place to interact with our buyers, merchandisers and our customers – and also with people here at the industry to see what’s new and what’s going on,” said David Stearle, president of Vermont Creamery at Land O’Lakes, Inc., and vice president of sales – US dairy foods.

Historically one of the most popular portions of the event is What’s In Store Live, which shines a spotlight on technology and innovation. IDDBA bills it as an interactive marketplace that is designed by a number of industry experts. It includes representative bakery, cake, cheese and prepared foods cases.

In 2023, IDDBA and RATIONAL USA teamed up to create a combination culinary and networking internship program to show students the world of foodservice outside of the standard restaurant path, where they can experience “Kitchen Quality of Life,” a unique work-life balance enjoyed by retail foodservice professionals.

Culinary students will work side-by-side with both industry mentors and chefs to creatively set up and run the What’s in Store Live! area. Students are asked to be present at the show for four days, three of which will be working days, with a day off to walk the show, network and engage with mentors and other attendees.

Show organizers also are bringing back the Visionary Pavilion, which gives smaller, upstart businesses that are first- and second-year exhibitors the chance to present their innovations and concepts.

Additionally, the Digital New Product Showcase offers a glimpse into innovation and trends through cutting-edge products, packaging and services.

IDDBA said attendees are encouraged to download its IDDBA app, which functions year-round. The IDDBA mAPPed feature allows show attendees to find out more about exhibitors and guide them to the right booths. The app can also access the organization’s education resources and data at any time.