The State of the Industry presentations featured new insights from Mark Rossi, CEO and founder of Avanti, and Erik Lampe, president and CEO of The Vollrath Company, into the key challenges and trends dealers and manufacturers are tracking. 

The Tech Talks at the 2025 FEDA Annual Executive Leadership Conference cut through the noise with high-impact, real-world insights from senior technology leaders in the industry. Andre Fidellow, chief technology officer at Mission Restaurant Supply, shared proven approaches for using automation — particularly within ERP systems — to eliminate inefficiencies, overcome data challenges and enable growth. Next, Jamie Head, chief information officer at Parts Town, explored how robotics, AI-powered SKU management and predictive digital platforms are reshaping high-volume distribution by delivering greater control and higher customer satisfaction at a faster pace than ever before.

Following the Tech Talks, Erik Brynjolfsson, a digital economy expert and the special guest speaker at the 2025 FEDA Annual Executive Conference, joined Fidellow and Head for a fireside chat. The trio answered questions about how businesses are using AI and automation in their operations and methodologies for effective implementation.

J Schneider, managing director at Dorn Group, leads a discussion about the future of the supply chain in the foodservice equipment and supplies industry. Panelists include Chad Autry, associate dean of faculty and research at the University of Tennessee's Haslam College of Business; Jameel Burkett, CEO of Burkett Restaurant Equipment; Brian Kadel, vice president of dealer sales at Refrigerated Solutions Group; and Kevin Brink, vice president of LTL solutions at Kuehne+Nagel.

Chosen as one of the "Greatest Living Business Minds" by Forbes, Jim Collins has spent more than a quarter-century learning what separates good enterprises from great ones. The results of his research have served as the basis for his seven best-selling management books, including Good to Great. At the 2025 FEDA conference, Collins demonstrated how FEDA members can use the flywheel concept to develop models for generating momentum and building sustained success.

At the 2025 FEDA Annual Executive Leadership Conference, Joe Carbonara, editorial director for Foodservice Equipment & Supplies and restaurant development + design magazines, gave a presentation providing media insights into the foodservice equipment and supplies industry.

One of the most cited authors on the economics of information, Erik Brynjolfsson was among the first researchers to measure the productivity contributions of IT. Brynjolfsson's special guest presentation at the FEDA conference focused on the future of artificial intelligence and what it means for businesses, the economy and the workforce. He also shared insights into how companies can harness the possibilities of new technology and the best ways to incorporate AI into business strategies.