The Refrigerated Foods Association (RFA) Exhibition is one of the most anticipated events in the refrigerated and prepared foods industry. Held annually in the United States, the RFA Exhibition brings together manufacturers, suppliers, processors, and distributors to explore the latest innovations in refrigerated food technologies. The exhibition is more than just a trade show—it is a hub for networking, education, and discovering cutting-edge solutions that address food safety, packaging, shelf-life, automation, and sustainability.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Savannah, Georgia, the RFA Exhibition offers an immersive experience for anyone involved in the cold food supply chain. Whether you are a start-up brand, a long-standing processor, or a professional seeking insight into industry trends, the RFA Exhibition offers a valuable platform to grow your business and knowledge base.
Venue details and location insights
The upcoming Refrigerated Foods Association (RFA) Exhibition will be hosted at the Hyatt Regency Savannah, located in the historic downtown district. The venue offers a modern setting with spacious conference rooms, advanced AV setups, and scenic views of the Savannah River, creating a conducive environment for both networking and business development.
Venue Address:
Hyatt Regency Savannah
2 W Bay Street
Savannah, GA 31401, USA
This central location allows easy access to the airport, local hotels, and many of Savannah’s charming attractions, including River Street, historic homes, and southern cuisine hotspots.
Date and time of the event
The RFA Exhibition is typically held in late February or early March, depending on the annual calendar. For the upcoming edition, the tentative dates are February 23 – 26, 2025.
Timing:
- Conference Sessions: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Exhibition Hall Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Networking Dinners and Receptions: Evening slots (Invitation-based)
These dates may be subject to change based on scheduling and availability. Attendees are encouraged to register early and check the official website for confirmed details.
Product categories and exhibitor highlights
The RFA Exhibition features a comprehensive showcase of products and services across all sectors of the refrigerated food supply chain. From raw material sourcing to final packaged products, the event reflects the evolving demands and solutions in the cold foods industry.
Primary product categories include:
- Refrigerated and prepared foods
- Cold storage equipment
- Packaging and sealing solutions
- Temperature monitoring systems
- Food safety and sanitation technologies
- Automation and robotics in food processing
- Ingredients, preservatives, and clean label alternatives
- Supply chain and logistics management software
Many renowned exhibitors and suppliers from North America and beyond participate in this exhibition, launching new products and demonstrating live solutions tailored for food safety compliance, waste reduction, and enhanced productivity.
Expected visitor count and audience profile
The Refrigerated Foods Association (RFA) Exhibition typically attracts over 1,000 industry professionals from across the USA and internationally. This includes:
- Refrigerated food manufacturers
- R&D professionals and food scientists
- Packaging and equipment suppliers
- Cold chain logistics providers
- Quality assurance and safety officers
- Retail and food service representatives
- Regulatory consultants and compliance managers
The highly targeted audience profile ensures meaningful connections, business opportunities, and actionable insights for all attendees.
Nearby hotels and accommodations
Savannah, being a top travel destination, boasts a wide range of hotels near the RFA venue to suit every budget. In addition to the host hotel—Hyatt Regency Savannah—visitors can explore nearby lodging options such as:
- The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront – A luxurious riverfront hotel known for its rooftop bar and artistic interiors.
- Hotel Indigo Savannah Historic District – A boutique hotel just a 5-minute walk from the venue.
- Marriott Savannah Riverfront – A modern choice offering upscale amenities and views of the river.
- The DeSoto Savannah – A charming historic hotel located in the heart of Savannah, ideal for a more local feel.
- Holiday Inn Express Savannah Historic District – A budget-friendly option with convenient access to both the venue and city attractions.
Early booking is advised, especially as the exhibition dates approach, due to the high demand from attendees and tourists.
Cost of attendance and registration
Registration costs for the RFA Exhibition vary depending on the attendee category. Typical pricing includes:
- RFA Members: $495 – $695 (full access)
- Non-Members: $695 – $895
- Exhibitor Fee: From $1,200 (booth packages)
- Day Passes: Limited availability (approx. $250 per day)
Registration fees cover entry to all conference sessions, access to the exhibit floor, scheduled meals, receptions, and networking events. Early bird discounts and group rates are also available through the official portal.
Benefits of attending the RFA Exhibition
Attending the Refrigerated Foods Association (RFA) Exhibition is not just a business trip—it’s an opportunity to advance your understanding of where the refrigerated food industry is headed. Here’s why professionals from all over attend this event:
- Networking with industry leaders: Build strategic relationships with key decision-makers from top food companies, suppliers, and service providers.
- Educational sessions: Participate in seminars, panels, and workshops covering FDA updates, labeling trends, shelf-life extension techniques, and more.
- Live technology demos: See real-time applications of automated packaging systems, cold chain tracking, and robotics in food handling.
- Innovative product exposure: Discover new ingredients, smart packaging materials, and sustainable solutions that improve product quality and reduce operational costs.
- Industry benchmarking: Gain insights into best practices and standards that can be implemented in your own processes.
- Collaborative learning: Engage in discussions with peers and experts who share common challenges and solutions in the refrigerated foods segment.
Perks for exhibitors and sponsors
For businesses exhibiting at the RFA Exhibition, the perks are equally impressive. Sponsors and booth holders benefit from:
- Direct access to high-level decision-makers
- Lead generation from qualified buyers
- Media exposure via RFA marketing materials
- Priority speaking slots during technical sessions
- Inclusion in the RFA exhibitor directory
- Logo placements on banners, digital boards, and event merchandise
Custom sponsorship packages allow tailored brand visibility across the event duration.
Things to do in Savannah after the event
Savannah is one of America’s most enchanting cities. After your time at the exhibition, take some time to explore:
- River Street: Cobblestone pathways filled with local shops, pubs, and riverfront dining
- Forsyth Park: A perfect spot to relax under the trees and enjoy the iconic fountain
- Historic District: Walk among antebellum homes, ghost tour stops, and charming squares
- Telfair Museums: Immerse in southern art and culture
- Savannah Culinary Scene: Sample famous southern dishes like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and pecan pie at acclaimed restaurants
Where to register and book your tickets
To explore more details, register as an attendee or exhibitor, and book your tickets, please visit the official website of the Refrigerated Foods Association Exhibition: