ST. PAUL, Minn. — The MDA has reserved Minnesota Pavilion booth space at established tradeshows in 2017, offering discounted space to as many as 70 Minnesota food and beverage companies through the AGRI New Markets Program. The selected tradeshows offer access to a range of buyers and channels, from retail and food service, to natural and clean label, to the burgeoning craft beer, wine, and spirits markets.
Tradeshow events provide opportunities for brand-building, distribution expansion, and educational sessions. Minnesota Pavilion companies also have the opportunity to participate in export-focused buyer missions that include one-on-one buyer meetings.
“Tradeshows are one of the most effective ways for food and beverage companies to start building valuable relationships with potential buyers to help scale their business,” says MDA Agricultural Marketing Specialist Brian Erickson. “We’ve seen dozens of Minnesota companies meet new buyers, increase distribution, and bolster their sales through participation in Minnesota Pavilions. The MDA’s discount makes it possible for companies of all sizes to get involved and expand their markets with less risk.”
Food companies that participated in Minnesota Pavilion tradeshows last year projected an estimated average sales increase of more than $115,000 each (a nearly 20:1 return-on-investment).
Booth space is still available at four domestic tradeshows in 2017, including the National Confectioners Association Sweets & Snacks Expo, the National Restaurant Association (NRA) American Food Fair Pavilion, BAR 17 @ NRA, and the Summer Fancy Food Show. Contact Brian Erickson at 651-201-6539 for more information about the AGRI New Markets Program and to reserve your booth space today.
— Minnesota Department of Agriculture
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