SFA's Cipriani Discusses Diversity Programs at Summer Show

The 2023 Summer Fancy Food Show, taking place June 25-27 at the Javits Center in New York, will feature a Diversity Pavilion of exhibitors with diverse ownership and focus on uplifting diverse voices in the specialty food industry. Aki Cipriani, VP of talent and culture at the Specialty Food Association spoke with SFA News Daily about what attendees can expect from some of these initiatives and look out for at the Show.

What can attendees expect from the (included) partnership at the Summer Fancy Food Show?

I’m thrilled to share that (included) will once again be featured at the Summer Fancy Food Show at the Javits Center. (included) is a membership collective of executives from underrepresented communities committed to amplifying BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) voices and brands in the specialty food industry. We will host ten new cohorts within our Diversity Pavilion: Down the Road Spice Co., Nowhere Bakery, Edie’s, Growee Foods, Yoro, Impact Food, Side Project Beef Jerky, Tochi Snacks, Uncle Waithley’s Beverage Company, and Jack & Friends.

How do you feel the relationship with (included) has developed?

SFA’s partnership with (included) is emblematic of our commitment to being an organization that champions Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity at our events and throughout the industry. In addition to participation in the Summer Fancy Food Show, (included) exhibitors receive SFA membership, promotion & marketing, and access to industry-related programming. But best of all, included members can establish meaningful and sometimes life-long connections with other BIPOC companies.   

What other programs is the Specialty Food Association running at the Show?

We will highlight several DEI exhibitors (non-included members) in our Summer Fancy Food Show Guide, mobile app, and on SFA’s website. Additionally, we will be offering an education session on “Diversity Buying: How it Works” at our Big Idea Stage and hosting a Diversity Reception for current and past (included) cohorts, (included) members, and current diversity pavilion exhibitors.