It is obvious our industries have found ways to combine resources, capitalize on the strengths of brands and accept the challenges to adapt to the ever-changing needs of customers. The same can be illustrated through the strong partnership of the three IPPE organizers: U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY), North American Meat Institute (NAMI) and American Feed Industry Association (AFIA). As global companies become more multi-species protein providers and allied industries have responded by offering combined, branded products and services that cross segments as well, IPPE focuses its efforts on providing a venue that brings suppliers and customers together to transact business, see new products and technology, and participate in seminars and workshops led by key industry and education experts.

The 2016 edition of IPPE was the fourth year of the partnership for our organizations. Combining our efforts in representing meat and poultry processing and production, further processing and packaging, egg production and animal feed manufacturing has led to four consecutive years of growth and success. The 2016 IPPE experienced a record 1,301 exhibitors, covering 465,000 square feet of exhibit space, and a second consecutive year of attracting more than 30,000 attendees. An early sampling of feedback shows that 46 percent of the respondents purchased products or services during the show or will purchase after the show. A record number of attendees participated in a variety of topics from the 85 hours of educational programs offered. Students participated in the College Student Career Program hoping to find employment with more than 43 interviewing companies in our exciting industries. In the end, it all comes back to bringing together more quality suppliers with more of the industries’ decision makers to build, expand and improve efficiencies that led to the success of 2016 IPPE.

As our organizations work together to build upon the need for greater opportunities in sharing ideas, knowledge and experience in providing a connection to the global animal protein industry, it is our goal to provide farm-to-table coverage of animal agriculture. Sustainability, animal welfare, food safety and all of the other important world consumer issues will remain a priority as we look forward to planning a larger and an even more successful 2017 IPPE. NP