We are the Food Distribution Research Society, Inc.

In these changing times, it is critical that academia, government, and industry continue to work together in food distribution to foster the industry growth. Food Distribution Research Society (FDRS) is the only body of scholars and practitioners in the United States dedicated to the study, monitoring and sharing of knowledge about the dramatic changes that are taking place in the global food system.

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A Message From Our President Dr. Samuel D. Zapata

Dear Members and Friends of FDRS,

As the current president, I would like to welcome you to the Food Distribution Research Society (FDRS). If you are already a member, we are grateful for your contributions to advancing the understanding of challenges and opportunities related to the production, processing, distribution, marketing, and consumption of food products. If you are not yet a member, I encourage you to join our vibrant and multidisciplinary society.

For over 56 years, through strong collaboration among academia, industry, and government, FDRS has been at the forefront of innovation in the food sector. A future marked by environmental, resource, political, economic, social, and technological uncertainties requires us to work together to adapt to adverse conditions and seize new opportunities. The diverse skills and expertise of our members will be in high demand to address complex issues such as evolving food policies, rising production costs, depleting resources, new trade regulations, supply chain challenges, and shifting consumer preferences.

At our recent annual conference in San Diego, California, we witnessed the richness of relevant food-related topics presented by faculty, students, and industry partners. Our conference continues to serve as a platform for generating new ideas and addressing emerging issues with direct implications for the long-term sustainability of our food system. None of this would be possible without the dedicated leadership of our board of officers and directors. Their countless hours of planning make our annual conference (and our society) a reality. Please join me in thanking them for their selfless service.

My role as president is to continue strengthening the noble and unique mission of FDRS: fostering the growth and sustainability of the food industry. Do not hesitate to reach out if I or our society can be of assistance.

I encourage you to take advantage of the many professional and academic opportunities FDRS offers, including attending our next annual conference, publishing in our academic journal, participating in the Student Food Marketing Challenge, applying for scholarships and service awards, and engaging in limitless networking opportunities.

I wish you a productive year ahead. Your dedication and passion make our world brighter!

 

 

 

FDRS Food Marketing Challenge Student Reviews

See what students have to say about their Food Marketing Challenge experience at the annual FDRS Conference.
(Swipe left for more reviews.)