The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) Convention is one of the most significant industry events dedicated to frozen and refrigerated food products in the United States. This annual gathering brings together manufacturers, retailers, distributors, suppliers, and industry professionals under one roof to explore the latest trends, innovations, and opportunities in the frozen and refrigerated foods market. The convention is an essential platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and business growth.

Venue and Location

The NFRA Convention is held at the prestigious Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, located in National Harbor, Maryland, just outside Washington, D.C. This world-class venue offers over 600,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and is renowned for its stunning views of the Potomac River. National Harbor is a vibrant waterfront destination with an array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making it a convenient and attractive location for attendees.

Date and Time

The NFRA Convention typically takes place over three days during the fall season, with dates announced each year well in advance. Attendees should check the official NFRA website for the most current schedule. The event generally runs from early morning through late afternoon, featuring a combination of exhibit hours, keynote presentations, educational sessions, and networking opportunities.

Product categories featured

The convention showcases an extensive range of frozen and refrigerated food categories, including:

• Frozen meals and entrees
• Refrigerated dairy products such as cheeses, yogurts, and milk alternatives
• Frozen seafood and meat products
• Refrigerated beverages and juices
• Frozen desserts and snacks
• Plant-based and specialty frozen/refrigerated foods
• Innovative packaging solutions for frozen and refrigerated products
• Equipment and technology related to cold chain management and storage

This broad product mix attracts a diverse audience of exhibitors and visitors from all segments of the supply chain.

Visitor profile and attendance

The NFRA Convention draws an estimated 1,000 to 1,500 attendees each year. These include buyers and category managers from leading grocery chains and supermarkets, manufacturers looking to launch new products, suppliers of ingredients and packaging, logistics and cold storage providers, and industry consultants. The event fosters an environment conducive to establishing new business relationships and strengthening existing partnerships.

Nearby hotels and accommodation

For attendees traveling to the NFRA Convention, several hotel options are available within close proximity to the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center:

• Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center — The official convention hotel, offering luxurious rooms with scenic views, modern amenities, and direct access to the convention center. Staying here provides unmatched convenience for event participants.
• MGM National Harbor — A high-end resort and casino located a short walk away, ideal for visitors seeking upscale accommodations and entertainment options.
• The Westin Washington National Harbor — Located just across the river, it offers comfortable rooms and shuttle services to the convention venue.
• Nearby Marriott, Hilton, and Holiday Inn properties — Various hotels in National Harbor and nearby Alexandria provide a range of accommodation styles and budgets.

Booking early is recommended to secure the best rates and availability during the convention dates.

Cost and registration details

Registration fees for the NFRA Convention vary depending on the attendee’s role and the timing of registration. Early bird rates are often available for industry professionals who register well in advance. The cost typically includes access to all exhibit halls, keynote sessions, educational workshops, networking receptions, and some meals. Additional fees may apply for specialized seminars or VIP events. Interested participants should consult the official NFRA website for the most accurate and up-to-date registration pricing and policies.

Benefits of attending the NFRA Convention

Attending the National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association Convention offers numerous advantages for professionals in the frozen and refrigerated food industry:

• Industry insights and trends: Attendees gain valuable knowledge from expert-led sessions about market developments, consumer behavior, and technological advancements shaping the future of frozen and refrigerated foods.
• Product discovery: The convention floor features the latest product innovations and packaging designs, providing retailers and buyers an opportunity to identify new items to enhance their offerings.
• Networking opportunities: The event fosters interaction among suppliers, manufacturers, retailers, and service providers, allowing participants to build meaningful connections that can lead to collaborations and business growth.
• Educational sessions: In-depth workshops and seminars provide actionable strategies for marketing, merchandising, supply chain management, and regulatory compliance.
• Brand visibility: Exhibitors benefit from high visibility among targeted buyers and industry influencers, strengthening brand presence in a competitive market.

Perks and additional attractions

Besides the core event activities, the NFRA Convention often features social events such as welcome receptions, awards ceremonies, and themed dinners, creating a relaxed environment for informal networking. Attendees also enjoy access to the National Harbor area, which offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. The convenient location near Washington, D.C., also provides an opportunity to explore cultural landmarks and museums for those extending their stay.

Travel tips and recommendations

• Plan travel and accommodation well in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes.
• Utilize hotel shuttles or local transit services to commute between hotels and the convention venue.
• Dress business casual for meetings and formal sessions; consider comfortable footwear for walking the exhibit hall.
• Bring plenty of business cards and promotional materials if exhibiting or networking.
• Take advantage of the educational offerings by pre-registering for workshops of interest.

The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association Convention in National Harbor is an essential event for anyone involved in the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. Its strategic location, comprehensive product categories, and valuable networking opportunities make it an ideal platform for advancing business goals, discovering new trends, and staying competitive in a fast-evolving market. Whether you are a manufacturer, retailer, supplier, or industry expert, attending the NFRA Convention offers unparalleled benefits that can shape the future of your organization.

For detailed information on event dates, registration, and accommodations, as well as to book your tickets, please visit the official website: https://www.nfraweb.org