NCDA&CS to host Food Business Conference May 8

RALEIGH – The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will host its first-ever Food Business Conference at the Alamance Cooperative Extension offices in Burlington. The marketing event is aimed at food business owners looking to expand their businesses.

"Food businesses are an important part of agriculture's $70 billion contribution to the state's economy," said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. "Events such as this are great opportunities for smaller food businesses to learn new ways to expand their operations."

The conference will feature seminars and panel discussions led by food entrepreneurs and NCDA&CS marketing specialists. Topics include building your brand, international marketing on a zero budget, protecting your assets, using smartphones and QR codes to get and keep customers, and giving effective presentations and in-store tastings.

Registration is open to existing food businesses. Early registration is $45 before March 31. The registration fee increases to $50 after March 31. All registrations must be received by May 1.

For more information or a registration form, go to www.ncagr.gov/markets/agribiz/, or call food business specialist Annette Dunlap at 919-707-3117.