Author: Natalie Limm

Innovation Takes Center Stage in Frozen and Refrigerated Categories

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kate Landis
717-657-8601
[email protected]

HARRISBURG, Pa., March 12, 2025 – The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) is pleased to announce the finalists for its second annual Penguin Pitch: Emerging Brand Contest. The competition, launched last year, continues to spotlight innovative and standout brands in the frozen and refrigerated food categories, recognizing exciting new products entering the market.

“The innovation from this year’s finalists reflects the continued evolution of frozen and refrigerated foods,” said Tricia Greyshock, President & CEO of NFRA. “These brands are creating new opportunities for growth. Each finalist brings something unique to the table, whether through sustainable ingredients, bold flavors, innovative packaging, or solutions that meet evolving consumer demands.”

The 2025 Penguin Pitch Finalists include:

• Actual Veggies: Super Fries
• CitraPac Inc.: Nature’s Premium Parfait Pearls
• CVT Inc.: CVT Soft Serve
• Fat and Weird Cookie Company: Stuffed Mega Cookie Dough Bites
• Frönen: Salted Caramel Frozen Dessert Pint
• Jesse & Ben’s: Tallow & Sea Salt House-Cut Fries
• Maia Yogurt: Kids No Sugar Added Pouch (Blueberry)
• MyForest Foods: MyBacon

The grand prize winner will be announced later this summer and will be awarded a coveted product showcasing opportunity at Café NFRA during the 2025 NFRA Convention (October 18-21, Orlando, FL). The Café offers an invaluable setting to feature products to industry leaders and retail partners over the course of three days. Three Honorable Mention awards will also be announced: Most creative packaging; most disruptive product; and most unique promotional campaign.

For more information about the NFRA Penguin Pitch and to follow updates on this year’s finalists, click here.

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About National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA)

NFRA is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. NFRA sponsors national promotions ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen (January), March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties (June/July); and provides consumer information such as food safety guidelines, meal preparation tips, recipes and sweepstakes opportunities through its Easy Home Meals consumer website and social media properties. To learn more, visit nfraweb.org.

March Frozen Food Month Highlights Culinary Innovation, Convenience and Savings

For Immediate Release
Kate Landis
717-657-8601
[email protected]

HARRISBURG, Pa., March 7, 2025 – The way Americans cook is evolving, and the freezer aisle is leading the charge. Once seen as just a place for convenience meals, today’s frozen food options provide fresh-tasting ingredients, chef-inspired meals, and budget-friendly solutions for every lifestyle. And with March Frozen Food Month here, it’s the perfect time to explore everything frozen has to offer.

To view the multimedia assets and survey information click here.

“For decades, frozen foods have been a trusted solution for busy families, offering quality, variety, and affordability,” said Tricia Greyshock, President & CEO of NFRA. “From quick-prep meals to flash-frozen produce, frozen foods help consumers save time, reduce waste, and enjoy delicious meals on their terms. March is the perfect time to explore the convenience and innovation happening in the frozen food aisle.”

Recent consumer research underscores the growing importance of frozen foods in American households:

• Nearly three-fourths of consumers (73%) agree they can make an affordable and tasty meal using items from their freezer.
• 78% of consumers say price is the biggest factor in their grocery decisions, reinforcing the value frozen foods offer.
• 83% of shoppers say frozen foods make meal planning easier, reinforcing how essential they are for busy households.

Throughout March, retailers nationwide will offer special promotions on frozen foods, making it an ideal time for consumers to stock up on favorites and discover new options. NFRA’s Easy Home Meals website and social media channels will feature recipe inspiration that showcases the versatility of frozen foods for every meal occasion. Plus, read the latest Easy Home Meals Registered Dietitian blog post on March Frozen Food Month: Celebrating the Benefits, Convenience and Innovation of Frozen Favorites.

Shoppers can also participate in NFRA’s $10,000 sweepstakes, with a chance to win one of 18 First Prizes of $500 supermarket gift cards or the Grand Prize of a $1,000 supermarket gift card.

For more information about March Frozen Food Month, recipe ideas, and the $10,000 Sweepstakes, visit EasyHomeMeals.com.

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About National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA)

NFRA is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. NFRA sponsors national promotions ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen (January), March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties (June/July); and provides consumer information such as food safety guidelines, meal preparation tips, recipes and sweepstakes opportunities through its Easy Home Meals consumer website and social media properties. To learn more, visit nfraweb.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kate Landis
717-657-8601
[email protected]

Harrisburg, PA (February 10, 2025) – The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) is proud to announce the launch of its groundbreaking First Penguin Leadership Program, an elite leadership development initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. Alongside this milestone, NFRA is thrilled to unveil its inaugural class of industry rising stars, a distinguished group of professionals poised to shape the future of the categories.

Named after the “First Penguin” concept—coined by Carnegie Mellon professor Randy Pausch to recognize those who take bold risks in pursuit of progress—this exclusive program is designed to empower high-potential leaders with critical industry knowledge, leadership acumen, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

“The First Penguin Leadership Program represents NFRA’s deep commitment to fostering innovation and leadership within the frozen and refrigerated foods industry,” said Tricia Greyshock, President & CEO of NFRA. “This initiative will help build a strong leadership pipeline, ensuring that our categories remain at the forefront of retail and consumer trends.”

A Transformative Leadership Experience
The First Penguin Leadership Program is a yearlong, immersive experience that blends leadership development with deep industry insights. Participants will gain unparalleled access to executive mentorship, guided industry learning, and hands-on case study projects, culminating in a high-profile group presentation at the 2025 NFRA Convention in Orlando, FL.

The program will feature:

• Exclusive Leadership Workshops – Featuring top industry executives, leadership topics, and business strategists
• Retail & Supply Chain Immersion – Guided store visits and discussions on category management, shopper insights, and merchandising strategies
• High-Impact Networking – Connections with industry veterans, NFRA board members, and peers across manufacturers, retailers, and sales agents
• Executive-Level Recognition – Graduation and recognition at NFRA’s flagship event, the NFRA Convention

Introducing the First Penguin Inaugural Class
The 2025 First Penguin Leadership Class is composed of a select group of exceptional rising stars, representing future leaders from across NFRA member organizations. These individuals were chosen for their leadership potential, industry expertise, and commitment to driving innovation in frozen and refrigerated foods.

2025 First Penguin Leadership Class:

1. Samantha Beam – Commercial Development Manager, Nestlé USA
2. Cody Besgrove – Senior Analyst, Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG)
3. Eddy Birth – Broker Manager – Large Outlet West, Mars Ice Cream
4. Navi Bola – Sr. Manager, Product Development, Own Brands, Albertsons Companies Inc.
5. Stevie Bryk – Sr. Market Research Development Analyst, Schneider National
6. Ryan Busse – Account Executive, Palermo Villa Inc.
7. Tony D. Caloroso – Business Development Manager, Schraad Sales & Marketing
8. Conor Carpenter – Senior Brand Manager, Kellanova
9. Paula Colatriano – Account Executive, JOH
10. Michael Crawford – National Account Manager, Rich Products
11. Grace Donnelly – Business Manager, Acosta Sales & Marketing
12. Jeremiah Freeman – Dairy Manager/Assistant Store Manager, Babbs Supermarket
13. Peter Fulton – Senior Sales Manager, Lactalis Retail Dairy
14. Armin Hadziomerovic – Category Manager, Houchens Food Group
15. Tyler Harvey – Regional Sales Manager, Dairy Farmers of America
16. Lisa Heard – Brand Manager, InnovAsian Cuisine
17. Jasmine Herazo – Account Executive, Quirch Foods
18. Alexis Herbert – Business Manager, Daymon Worldwide
19. Casey Hom – Director, Business Planning, The Coca-Cola Company
20. Sandra Horn – Director of Sales Development – Perishables, CA Ferolie
21. Peggy Jackson – Director of Brand Marketing, Simek’s
22. Shane Jacobson – Sr. Category Manager – Frozen, Associated Food Stores
23. Natalie Larson – Manager, Strategic Partnerships, United States Cold Storage
24. Kim Larsson – Director of Sales, Painterland Sisters
25. Daniel Menkens – Sr. Director of Sales – Albertsons Team, Alliance Sales and Marketing
26. Anne Wallis Nelson – Associate Marketing Manager – Digital, The Pictsweet Company
27. Kristin Niles – Sr. Manager – Business Unit Sales & Strategy – Frozen Meals & Frozen Mexican Foods, The Kraft Heinz Company
28. Alyssa Panzarella – Director of Marketing, Mrs. T’s Pierogies
29. Isabelle Steiner – Regulatory Manager, Rosina Food Products
30. Jamie Yobbi – Category Manager – Dairy, Giant Eagle

NFRA’s Continued Commitment to Leadership Development
The launch of the First Penguin Leadership Program aligns with NFRA’s broader mission to support the industry’s growth and cultivate the next generation of executives, innovators, and changemakers. By equipping emerging leaders with the insights and skills necessary to navigate today’s complex retail and supply chain landscape, NFRA is investing in the future success of the frozen and refrigerated categories.

Join the Movement
Industry leaders and organizations interested in supporting the First Penguin Leadership Program are encouraged to contact NFRA for sponsorship and mentorship opportunities. Applications for the 2026 class will open in December 2025.

For more information, visit www.nfraweb.org or contact Tricia Greyshock at [email protected].

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About National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA)
NFRA is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. NFRA sponsors national promotions ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen (January), March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties (June/July); and provides consumer information such as food safety guidelines, meal preparation tips, recipes and sweepstakes opportunities through its Easy Home Meals consumer website and social media properties.

Research Shows Health Benefits, Promotions, and Digital Integration Driving Frozen and Dairy Purchase Decisions

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kate Landis
717-657-8601
[email protected]

HARRISBURG, Pa., (February 3, 2025) – The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) today released findings from its most recent comprehensive consumer behavior study, revealing shifts in how Americans grocery shop. The research, conducted in partnership with Morning Consult, surveyed 2,200 U.S. adults and analyzed behaviors and purchase motivators.

 “Convenience, inspiration, and sustainability are shaping shopping behaviors, providing exciting opportunities for retailers and manufacturers to engage customers through personalized marketing, digital tools, and innovative merchandising,” said Tricia Greyshock, NFRA President & CEO. “NFRA remains committed to delivering these insights to help drive growth in the frozen and refrigerated food industry.”

Below are the significant insights:

Health and Quality Drive Dairy Purchases

• Hormone-free and antibiotic-free attributes are critical, with 62% of respondents highlighting their importance when selecting dairy products. In contrast, only 47% emphasized the importance of organic labeling.
• Health benefits such as probiotics and high protein content were a leading motivator for trying new dairy products (33%), followed by discounts (29%) and personal recommendations (28%).

Promotions Spark Interest in Frozen Foods

• Special offers, discounts, or promotions were the top motivator (34%) for purchasing frozen products, followed by curiosity about new flavors (28%) and recommendations (28%).
• Taste remains a key deciding factor, influencing frozen food purchases across categories, including frozen vegetables, meats, and snacks.

Consumer Behavior in Grocery Shopping

• When shopping in-store, nearly half (48%) of consumers navigate directly to familiar sections, with 46% browsing aisles for inspiration.
• Online grocery shoppers rely heavily on search functions (37%) and category browsing (36%), with 24% referring to past orders for convenience.

Recipe Exploration as a Driver for New Product Trials

• Over half (52%) of consumers explore new recipes to add variety, often finding inspiration from online recipe websites (42%) and social media platforms (40%).
• Consumers expressed interest in grocery stores enhancing meal inspiration with sections featuring ready-to-eat ideas (71%) and themed recipe displays (62%).

Generational Preferences

• Gen Z and Millennials are more likely to leverage apps or online resources when grocery shopping, while Baby Boomers prefer traditional navigation methods like store signage or printed recipes.
• Younger generations also place more value on innovative packaging and trendy food attributes when making purchasing decisions.

Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing Matter

• Attributes such as environmentally friendly packaging (58%) are increasingly significant, reflecting a growing consumer demand for sustainable food options.

These findings underline the importance of health-conscious messaging, promotional campaigns, and meal-planning resources in driving consumer engagement in the frozen and refrigerated food categories. Retailers and manufacturers have opportunities to connect with shoppers through personalized marketing, technology-driven tools, and enhanced in-store experiences.

For additional information, contact Kate Landis at [email protected] and visit www.nfraweb.org to learn more about the National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association. Complete research findings and actionable recommendations are available to NFRA members.

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About National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA)

NFRA is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. NFRA sponsors national promotions ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen (January), March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties (June/July); and provides consumer information such as food safety guidelines, meal preparation tips, recipes and sweepstakes opportunities through its Easy Home Meals consumer website and social media properties. To learn more, visit nfraweb.org.

Agency to Drive Digital Innovation for NFRA’s Consumer Brand Easy Home Meals
HARRISBURG, Pa. (January 31, 2025) – The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) has selected quench as its strategic creative agency partner, effective January 2025. The collaboration kicks off with an integrated digital campaign for Easy Home Meals, NFRA’s consumer engagement platform, aimed at driving awareness and engagement for the categories.

The partnership will focus on developing innovative social and influencer marketing strategies to showcase the frozen and refrigerated foods categories through year-round promotions and consumer outreach initiatives.

“With consumers increasingly seeking convenient, nutritious meal solutions, NFRA is well positioned to showcase the innovation and growth happening in our industry,” said Tricia Greyshock, NFRA President and CEO. “quench demonstrated deep category understanding and creative approaches that will help us connect with and remind consumers about the benefits of frozen and refrigerated foods.

EasyHomeMeals.com serves as the digital hub for frozen and refrigerated food inspiration, reaching millions of consumers annually through its website, social media channels, and extensive media network. The platform delivers trending content, meal planning solutions, tips and tricks, as well as consumer sweepstakes and giveaways during key promotional periods including January’s ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen campaign, March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties.

“The Frozen and refrigerated categories represent modern mealtime solutions,” said quench CEO Michael Pavone. “Our campaign will spotlight the quality, convenience and innovation benefits these products offer today’s consumers”

quench is part of Pavone Group, a full-service marketing group with offices in Philadelphia, New York, Atlanta, and Harrisburg, Pa. Pavone Group is an independent agency network made up of several niche agencies, each one sharing resources and expertise to benefit Pavone Group’s client needs.

About National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA)
The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. NFRA sponsors national promotions ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen (January), March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties (June/July); and provides consumer information such as food safety guidelines, meal preparation tips, recipes and sweepstakes opportunities through its Easy Home Meals consumer website and social media properties.

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Industry Competition Seeks Standouts in Frozen & Dairy

HARRISBURG, Pa. (January 9, 2025) – The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) announces its 2025 Penguin Pitch: Emerging Brand Contest, designed to solicit and showcase innovation in the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. The competition, which debuted last year, officially launched on January 1, 2025, and will evaluate this year’s entrants based on taste, innovation, and market strategy.

“NFRA’s Penguin Pitch celebrates brands that are rethinking and reshaping the future of our categories,” says Tricia Greyshock, President and CEO of NFRA. “We’re looking for something that not only excites retailers and consumers, but addresses an unmet need, is unique, and truly represents the exciting innovation happening in our industry.”

The grand prize winner will receive a complimentary tasting table at Café NFRA during the 2025 NFRA Convention, October 18-21, in Orlando, Florida. Valued at $7,000, the Cafe offers emerging brands a unique opportunity to showcase their products directly to industry decision-makers.

“Winning NFRA’s Penguin Pitch last year was a game-changer for Big Mozz. The exposure we received at Café NFRA connected us directly with key industry leaders and opened doors to new retail partnerships,” said Marlon Weinberg, Director of Retail Sales at Big Mozz. “Being recognized for our innovation has helped solidify our brand as a standout in the frozen aisle.”

Additional Categories:
This year’s contest will also honor winners in three distinct categories:

• Most Creative Packaging
• Most Disruptive Product
• Most Unique Promotional Campaign

Eligibility and Timeline:

• Companies must have entered retail within the past ten years.
• Annual retail sales for the product must range from $100,000 to $2 million as of February 1, 2025.
• Participants must be NFRA members in good standing or join by March 1, 2025.

For complete rules and entry forms, visit our website. Entry deadline is February 10, 2025.

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About National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA)
NFRA is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. NFRA sponsors national promotions ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen (January), March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties (June/July); and provides consumer information such as food safety guidelines, meal preparation tips, recipes and sweepstakes opportunities through its Easy Home Meals consumer website and social media properties.

NFRA Invites Families to ReDiscover Frozen and Dairy Aisles to Jumpstart Their New Year’s Resolutions 

For Immediate Release

Kate Landis
717-657-8601
[email protected]

HARRISBURG, Pa., (January 2, 2025) — As millions of Americans begin tackling their New Year’s resolutions today, new research reveals the frozen and dairy aisles are becoming important destinations for achieving health, budget and convenience goals. According to a survey commissioned by the National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA), 66% of Americans say pre-portioned ingredients help them achieve their health goals, while 75% cite cost savings as a top reason for choosing the frozen and refrigerated aisles – signaling a continued shift in shopping and eating habits.

“New Year’s resolutions can be tough to maintain, especially when juggling busy schedules and tight budgets,” said Tricia Greyshock, President & CEO of NFRA. This survey highlights the ways frozen and dairy items can offer practical, delicious snacking and meal options that make it easier to eat healthfully, save money, and deliver meals on the table efficiently.

Smart Solutions for Today’s Families
Parents are emerging as sophisticated category shoppers, with 77% using pre-portioned ingredients to meet family health goals. The research reveals clear strategic planning:

• 52% use January to reorganize their freezer and refrigerator spaces for the year ahead
• 50% have switched to yogurt from traditional snacks for healthier choices
• 68% rely on frozen options to streamline busy morning routines
• 78% leverage bulk buying for budget management while reducing waste

Generation-Defining Changes
Beyond simple convenience, younger consumers (Gen Z and millennials) are revolutionizing how these aisles are used:

• 76% turn to frozen foods to explore global flavors and expand their culinary horizons
• 88% prioritize meals that can be prepared in 45 minutes or less
• Year-over-year data shows sustained growth in frozen food purchases among Gen Z and millennials, up from 2023 levels

Health and Value Convergence 
The research demonstrates how health goals and budget consciousness are increasingly linked:

• 66% of Americans rely on pre-portioned ingredients to support health goals
• 67% cite bulk buying as key to managing budgets while reducing food waste
• Most popular, budget-friendly essentials:
  • Milk (52%)
  • Cheese (51%)
  • Yogurt (48%, with notably higher adoption among parents at 55%)

Meeting Modern Lifestyles
Time optimization remains crucial, with consumers seeking solutions that fit their busy lives:

• 58% prioritize healthful eating as part of their “New Year, New You” goals
• 42% of parents specifically seek time-saving snack or meal options for school morning routines
• 49% have increased frozen food purchases due to rising costs, showing practical adaptation to economic pressures

ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen
The findings are part of NFRA’s ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen campaign, which encourages consumers to revisit the frozen and refrigerated aisles to rediscover familiar favorites, explore new innovations, and find exciting ways to make meal prep easier and more enjoyable.

Looking for a quick and easy way to get started? The ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen Inspiration Guide and Easy Home Meals recipe library are bursting with ideas to transform everyday ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Users can also conquer the kitchen with engaging video tutorials and handy recipe hacks to build culinary confidence and become a master of meals. NFRA is also giving away 12 coupon books valued at $600, and a chance to win the $10,000 ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen Sweepstakes to explore all the new products, innovation, and breadth the aisles offer.

For more meal information on how frozen and refrigerated dairy products can support a healthy, convenient, and affordable lifestyle, visit the National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association’s website at EasyHomeMeals.com. 

About NFRA
The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. From promoting healthful eating to providing solutions for time-strapped families, NFRA connects consumers with innovative food options for every lifestyle.

Survey Methodology
The NFRA commissioned Atomik Research to conduct an online survey of 2,005 adults throughout the United States, including 1,002 parents of children under 18. The survey, conducted from November 7-12, 2024, has a margin of error of +/- 2 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.

For Immediate Release

Kate Landis
717-657-8601
[email protected]

HARRISBURG, Pa. (October 23, 2024) – The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) elected its Association Officers and Members of the Board of Directors for 2024-2025 at its Annual Board of Directors meeting on October 5, 2024.

Tracy Aquila, Vice President, Merchandising, Southeastern Grocers, has been elected to serve as Chair of the Board. Aquila has served on the Board of Directors since 2019 and served as Chair-Elect from 2023-2024. Aquila is also a member of the Honorable Order of Golden Penguins.

Tracy Aquila commented on her new role, saying, “I am honored to serve as Chair of the Board for NFRA at a time when consumers are seeking convenience, quality, and value. As we navigate the evolving landscape of our industry, I look forward to working with our talented board and members to drive innovation and sustainable growth. Together, we’re well-positioned to lead the frozen and refrigerated foods industry into its next chapter of success.”

Other officers announced at the meeting were: Bill Kynast, Chobani Global Holdings, Chairman-Elect; Lindsey Hickey, Simek’s, Treasurer; Shannon Gilreath, Rich’s Consumer Brands, Secretary; Tony Battaglia, Lactalis American Group, Vice Chairman – Refrigerated and Scott Evans, Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG), Vice Chairman – Frozen.

Newly elected to the Board of Directors were: Yuliya Day, Kraft Heinz Company; Tom DiPuccio, Acosta Sales & Marketing; Joe Karl, General Mills; David Rosen, Coca-Cola North America; Angela Rosenquist, InnovAsian Cuisine; Jorge Silva, Campbell’s Distinctive Brands and Chris Wilkerson, The Pictsweet Company.

Re-elected to the Board of Directors was Todd Bostian, Lowes Foods LLC, who begins his second term. A full list of 2024-2025 Board of Directors, Advisory Directors and Council Members can be found here.

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About National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA)

NFRA is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. NFRA sponsors national promotions ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen (January), March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties (June/July); and provides consumer information such as food safety guidelines, meal preparation tips, recipes and sweepstakes opportunities through its Easy Home Meals consumer website and social media properties. To learn more, visit nfraweb.org.

For Immediate Release

Kate Landis
717-657-8601
[email protected]

Record-Breaking Attendance and Valuable Forums Mark Successful Event

HARRISBURG, Pa. (October 23, 2024) – The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) recently concluded its 2024 Convention, setting new benchmarks for industry engagement and business opportunity. Held in National Harbor, MD, the event brought together over 1,700 frozen and refrigerated foods industry professionals.

“The 2024 NFRA Convention exceeded our expectations,” said Tricia Greyshock, President & CEO of NFRA. “We set a new record for participation at this key industry event, including attendance from over 100 organizations that sent representatives for the first time. The high level of engagement we observed demonstrates the continued value our members, and the industry at large, place on in-person collaboration. This year’s Convention provided an ideal setting for productive business meetings, informative presentations, and important industry recognition that you can’t find anywhere else.”

Over 6,500 business appointments were conducted during the event, underscoring NFRA’s commitment to optimizing attendees’ time and productivity while out of the office. The NFRA Convention offered a platform for more than 50 manufacturers and emerging brands to showcase the latest innovation in frozen and dairy at the highly anticipated Taste of Excellence opening reception.

Key highlights from this year’s event include:

• Café NFRA: Serving as a hub for networking and collaboration, Café NFRA provided attendees with a dynamic setting to connect and experience offerings from both emerging and established brands.
• Industry Insights: Attendees heard from industry experts, including Brian Beaulieu (ITR Economics), Brian Kay (Numerator), and Ken Harris (Cadent Consulting Group), who provided valuable market and consumer insights and economic forecasts.
• Golden Penguin Awards: The prestigious 2024 Golden Penguin Awards recognized exceptional achievements in marketing and merchandising within the frozen and refrigerated foods industry, spotlighting innovative strategies that have driven success. This year’s Top Marketers, recognized for their contributions, include March Frozen Food Month – Local Association: Frozen & Refrigerated Food Council of Northern California, Manufacturer: TruFru; Retailer: Rouses Markets, Sales Agent: JOH, Wholesaler: UNFI; June Dairy Month – Local Association: Frozen & Refrigerated Food Council of Northern California, Manufacturer: Land O’Lakes, Retailer: Houchens Foods Group and Rouses Markets, Sales Agent: Schraad Sales & Marketing, Wholesaler: C & S Wholesale Grocers; Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties – Manufacturer: Dippin’ Dots, Retailer: Brookshire Grocery Company. View the Top Marketer video here.
• Frozen Food Hall of Fame: William Kitchens, retired Partner at Arnall Golden Gregory LLP and former General Counsel of NFRA, and H.V. “Skip” Shaw, retired President & CEO of NFRA, were inducted into the Frozen Food Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame, established in 1990, recognizes individuals who have greatly benefited the industry through their dedication and hard work.
• Penguin Pitch Competition: Big Mozz was crowned NFRA’s 2024 Emerging Brand of the Year in the inaugural Penguin Pitch Contest. Additional recognition went to MingsBings for “Most Unique Promotional Campaign,” Lopaus Point for “Creative Packaging,” and Wow Bao for “Most Disruptive Product.” Entries for the 2025 contest will be accepted beginning in January.
• Annual Membership Meeting: During the 80th Annual Membership Luncheon, NFRA elected its association officers and members of the Board of Directors for 2024-2025, with Tracy Aquila of Southeastern Grocers serving as Chairman of the Board.

Mark your calendars for next year! The 2025 NFRA Convention will be held at the Orlando World Center Marriott in Orlando, FL, October 18-21, 2025. Registration opens March 1, 2025.

For more information about NFRA and future events, please visit www.nfraweb.org.

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About National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA)

NFRA is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. NFRA sponsors national promotions ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen (January), March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties (June/July); and provides consumer information such as food safety guidelines, meal preparation tips, recipes and sweepstakes opportunities through its Easy Home Meals consumer website and social media properties. To learn more, visit nfraweb.org.

HARRISBURG, Pa. (September 11, 2024) – The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) today announced the winners of its 2024 Golden Penguin Awards, recognizing outstanding marketing and merchandising in the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. Entries are judged by a panel of marketing professionals who look for creativity, clarity, and effectiveness when supporting these promotional months. Winning entries and campaigns feature measurable results and innovative approaches executed in March, June, and July.

A total of 140 awards will be presented across the three promotional periods, showcasing the industry’s commitment to innovation and consumer engagement.

2024 Award Highlights:

• March Frozen Food Month: 29 Gold, 23 Silver
• June Dairy Month: 28 Gold, 26 Silver
• Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties: 15 Gold, 19 Silver

“This is where the top of the top are recognized. From large-scale national campaigns to inventive local promotions, each entry reflects the dedication and creativity that make our industry thrive,” said Tricia Greyshock, President & CEO of NFRA.

The Golden Penguin Awards recognize various categories, offering multiple opportunities for participation:

• In-Store Display
• In-Store Event
• Community Involvement
• Social Media Campaign
• Private Brand Campaign
• Retail Dietitian Wellness Program
• Overall Marketing Campaign (with subcategories for Retailer, Wholesaler, Manufacturer, Sales Agent, and Local Association)

Gold winners will be honored at the NFRA Convention, October 5-8, 2024, in National Harbor, MD. The Convention will culminate with the Golden Penguin Awards Luncheon on October 8, where the highest-scoring entries in each Overall Marketing Campaign subcategory will be unveiled as this year’s Top Marketers.

“The Golden Penguin Awards are more than just peer recognition; they’re a showcase of innovative best practices that drive our industry forward,” added Tricia Greyshock. “We look forward to celebrating these achievements that inspire excellence in frozen and refrigerated foods marketing and merchandising.”

View the complete list of winners and for more information about the awards, visit https://www.nfraweb.org/.

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About National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA)
NFRA is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. NFRA sponsors national promotions ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen (January), March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and Summer Favorites Ice Cream & Novelties (June/July); and provides consumer information such as food safety guidelines, meal preparation tips, recipes and sweepstakes opportunities through its Easy Home Meals consumer website and social media properties. To learn more, visit nfraweb.org.