Food Industry Leaders Gather in Kalamazoo for Conference

Experts discuss affordability and value as top concerns amid economic challenges.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 7:00am

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Food industry leaders, students, and experts are meeting in Kalamazoo, Michigan this week for a major conference to discuss current trends in the sector. Dr. Russell Zwanka, director of the food marketing program at Western Michigan University, says affordability and providing value to consumers will be among the top topics of conversation as the economy contracts.

Why it matters

The annual food industry conference in Kalamazoo brings together key players to discuss pressing issues facing the sector, which has been impacted by factors like rising fuel costs and economic uncertainty. Insights from the event can help shape strategies for food producers, retailers, and consumers.

The details

Major companies like Amazon, Keurig, Dr Pepper, and Kellenova have sent representatives to the sold-out conference at Western Michigan University. Discussions will focus on how fuel price increases will impact consumers and the industry's ability to provide value amid economic challenges.

  • The food industry conference is taking place this week in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

The players

Dr. Russell Zwanka

Director of the food marketing program at Western Michigan University.

Amazon

One of the major companies that sent representatives to the Kalamazoo conference.

Keurig

One of the major companies that sent representatives to the Kalamazoo conference.

Dr Pepper

One of the major companies that sent representatives to the Kalamazoo conference.

Kellenova

One of the major companies that sent representatives to the Kalamazoo conference.

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What they’re saying

“How will fuel increases be passed on to the consumer, or will they be able to be passed on to the consumer? That will always come up. Value. I would say consumers are always seeking value. And as the economy contracts even more, the push towards value becomes more front and center.”

— Dr. Russell Zwanka, Director of the food marketing program at Western Michigan University

The takeaway

As the food industry grapples with economic headwinds, this conference in Kalamazoo provides a platform for key stakeholders to strategize on how to maintain affordability and deliver value to consumers during challenging times.