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NOVEMBER 2007

Illinois Department of Agriculture
Bureau of Marketing and Promotions

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Check out IDOA's FREE Event-based calendar that highlights Illinois events that are food, agribusiness and agritourism related.

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Monthly Company Highlight
Food Company Of The Month TEXTAgribusiness Company Of The Month TEXT

NOVEMBER COMPANY HIGHLIGHT

Food Company Of The Month Food Company of the Month

Agribusiness Company Of The Month Agribusiness Company of the Month

Sahagian & Associates

Sahagian & Associates has enjoyed 37 years of creative innovation, niche conceptualization and marketing of their products. Under the direction of its founder, Linda Sahagian, the company has broadened its products becoming an integral supplier to leading retailers internationally. Sahagian products fit nearly every marketing year-round and seasonal program. The trademarked Yard of ©, Foot of ©, Two Feet of, under the banner of "The Whole Nine Yards" confectionary and nutritional products have been manufactured by Sahagian for products ranging from Bubblegum and Licorice to Carmel Corn and Popping Corn. Sahagian takes pride in manufacturing 100% of its products and packaging in the U.S.A. Wherever possible, the company focuses on exploring a "Made in Illinois" product development program insuring the highest quality and freshness.

The key element in any successful company is paying attention to the customer. Every Sahagian customer is as unique as are their in-store needs and display requirements. From the convenience store to the leading department store, the listening pays off in superior inventory turns and profitability. "Having the best product and presentation is were we begin." says Linda Sahagian, "then, it's all about what the consumer experiences in the store. Our product has got to pop and wind up at the check out counter."

Success is always a team effort. "Our people make the difference", says Greg Stewart, Sahagian's Director of Sales, "Sahagian has excellent people involved with manufacturing, administrative and sales. We listen to the pulse of the market and are far more responsive and flexible than some of the candy biggies."

Internationally, Sahagian has forged partnerships. The market and the attractive exchange rates make Sahagian's products increasingly a value, globally. The company has paid attention to ingredients and has flexibility in labeling to make A Yard of Bubblegum©, A Yard of Licorice© and their complimentary Foot of© Bubblegum and Licorice winners worldwide.

Today Sahagian is headquartered in Oak Park, Illinois with administrative offices located at 124 Madison Street. Linda Sahagian is active in National Professional Associations and in her community serving on several civic and agency boards including the Village Manager's Association in a desire to make the community a better place for business and family life for generations to come.

You're encouraged to visit the Sahagian & Associates, Inc. website at www.sahagianinc.com or write Linda at linda@sahagianinc.com.

Sahagian & Associates, Inc.
124 Madison St.
Oak Park, IL 60302

CALL: (800) 327-9273
Local : (708) 848-5552
FAX: (708) 386-5959
Email: linda@sahagianinc.com


Kuipers Family Farms

It started with a 71 acre pumpkin farm. Soon, owners Wade and Kim Kuipers, bought a nearby orchard and merged into the 220 acre farm they are today. Now, ten years later, Kuipers Family Farm remains a highly favored attraction for friends and family of all ages. Whether you are looking for apple picking, pumpkin picking, or Christmas trees, Kuipers Family Farms offers it all-with a little fun mixed in of course.

During the fall months customers can wander through the apple orchard. Here, they can pick from over 20 varieties of apples such as McIntosh, Golden Delicious, and Granny Smith-to name a few. Don't forget to visit the sampling area to find which flavor you like best and maybe discover a new favorite!

It wouldn't be fall without pumpkins, so make sure to visit their U-pick pumpkin patch, or leave the picking up to them and select your prized pumpkin from the pre-picked bunch. Kuipers Family farms also have a selection of seasonal decorations and crafts such as homegrown squash, gourds, straw bales, and corn stalks to purchase to make your home festive.

There are many activities to partake in during your Kuipers Family Farm visit. In the fall, many visitors test their navigational skills while twisting and turning through the five acre, two mile long corn maze Kuipers Family Farm offers. After your walk, you can enjoy a pony ride, hay wagon ride, or let Spot and Stitch take you on a horse-drawn wagon ride. Feel like walking again? Take a wander through the Haunted Forest, climb the straw mountain, visit the petting coral or take a stroll through the Nature Walk.

When colder months hit, Kuipers Family Farms invites you out to venture through the U- cut or pre-cut Christmas tree farm to find your perfect tree. Whether it's feeding Holly the reindeer and friends, munching on their famous apple cider doughnuts, or sipping on cider, Kuipers Family Farms makes finding the perfect tree a great family experience. Don't forget to stop by the Orchard Shop for winter decorations. Also make sure to visit their on-site bakery - you won't be able to resist taking home some of those home baked pies, fresh cream & butter fudge, or their famous fresh apple cider doughnuts.

No matter what season, Kuipers Family Farms offers a true farm atmosphere while providing tons of activities for friends and family to enjoy!

Kuipers Family Farms
Maple Park, IL 60151
Phone: (815) 827-5200
Fax: (815) 827-4100
Website: www.kuipersfamilyfarm.com

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New Companies Added to MIS database

NEW Illinois Companies Added to the IDOA Database

Illinois is home to over 1,500 food and agribusiness companies. The Department of Agriculture (IDOA), Bureau of Marketing and Promotions has developed an online guide listing products that are produced, processed and packaged in Illinois. The listing can be found at: www.agr.state.il.us .

Company

Products

Annette's Gourmet Italian Chili

Annette's brand Italian chili (Available in 24 oz. glass jars).

Pronto Foods

Ethnic foods (Asian & Hispanic).

Pyramid Foods Inc./Butterly Baking Inc.

Cinnamon rolls, cinnamon roll sticks, cinnamon roll bites, cinnamon swirl cream cakes (cinnamon, apple cinnamon, lemon sunrise, pineapple crunch, cranberry orange); chocolate fudge brownies, palmiers, butter croissants, breakfast kits, salad creations, tuscan cheese bread, Easter cookie kit, pasta & sandwhich combos, and Bavarian style pretzel rolls.

Simply Sno Inc.

Sno Biz gourmet cotton candy; light and fluffy. Company focuses on flavor, not color!

Zarlengo's Italian Ice & Gelato

Italian Ice sqeeze tubes-real fruit, all natural in 4 oz. size; assorted flavors; Italian Ice cups-3-6 oz. size in assorted flavors; hand dipped ice cream bars-milk and dark chocolate; single serve gelato cups-3-6 oz. size assorted flavors.

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ONGOING EVENTS
Ongoing Events
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Branded Program:  BRANDED PROGRAM UPDATE

Don't let this opportunity pass you by... you can still apply for 2008 funds! The Branded Program is Food Export–Midwest's and Food Export–Northeast's cost-share funding program that reimburses eligible U.S. suppliers up to 50 percent of approved international marketing expenses. It's a great way to break into new export markets or continue developing established international channels. The Branded Program operates on a yearly basis. Go to www.brandedprogram.org today to see if you pre-qualify for 2007 and 2008, or to submit an amendment for additional funds for 2007! For more information on the Branded Program.

Kim Hamilton

kim.hamilton@illinois.gov

217/782-5809

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MARKET BUILDER PROGRAM

Finding the right market for your product is the key to exporting success! Exporters who are looking to secure their product in an international market, find new distributors or importers, and receive valuable feedback about their product, can now use the assistance of Market Builder –the service designed to meet an exporter’s market development needs and wants.

Food Export Association of the Midwest USA

info@foodexport.org

312/334-9200

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Keep Your Information Current on the IDOA database!

The Illinois Department of Agriculture maintains a database of food and agribusiness companies in Illinois. If you are currently on our database a copy of your company's information has been emailed, faxed or mailed to the contact listed on our database in the recent past.  This information allows us to help buyers locate suppliers in Illinois as well as communicate in a timely manner with companies regarding sales opportunities they can participate in such as shows, promotions, and other related activities.  Our goal is to annually update our information.  

Your company’s information is included in our On-line Buyers Directory as well as included in lists distributed through individual inquiries from buyers looking for suppliers of specific Illinois products.  We also offer a Trade Lead Service that allows for electronic distribution of leads that originate from various sources to your desktop in a timely manner.

Your company will also be informed through periodic email messages about our other programs and services that include:  Marketing Perspectives; On-line Buyers Directory; Domestic Marketing Assistance; Illinois Products Logo Program; Trade Shows; Promotional Events; Industry Tours; Seminars; and Grant Opportunities.

Listing on the database is FREE !  There are minimal fees associated with the various trade shows and promotional events throughout the year, but participation in these events is up to each individual company.

Any company – Food or Agribusiness – that produces, packages, processes or is headquartered in Illinois is eligible to be listed in our database and participate in our programs and services.

If you have any changes that you would like made to your company’s Profile Form, please send us a copy of the attached FORM as soon as possible and we will update your listing. Also if you know of a company that would like to be added to our database, pass on a copy of the form to them.

Fax it to:
217/524-5960

Mail To:
Illinois Department of Agriculture
Marketing and Promotion
State Fairgrounds, P.O. Box 19281
Springfield, Illinois 62794-9281

Company Profile

Delayne Reeves

delayne.reeves@illinois.gov

217/524-9129

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Buy Illinois Network

The Buy Illinois Network is intended to help Illinois business owners market their products and services, which in turn stimulates more in-state, business-to-business commerce.

Larry Aldag

larry.aldag@illinois.gov

217/524-3012

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Food Export Helpline

Ever needed one-on-one export assistance but didn't know where to turn? This unique MIATCO service provides midwestern companies with customized, one-on-one assistance on a wide variety of export-related topics. Whether you have a quick question about exporting or need long-term assistance, MIATCO's Food Export Helpline can be of service! For enrolling in this free service, our counselor can also conduct a top 25 market report for you product!

Participation Agreement

MIATCO

info@miatco.org

312/334-9200

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MONTH HEADING
September 2007
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9 - 14

Gourmet Food Trade Mission to Japan

Japan

Participation Agreement

Food Export Association of the Midwest USA

info@foodexport.org

312/334-9230

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17 - 19

Sweets and Snacks Buyers Mission

Chicago, IL

Flyer

Food Export Association of the Midwest USA

info@foodexport.org

312/334-9230

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27 - 29

Natural Products Expo East Buyers Mission

Baltimore, MD

Participation Agreement

Food Export Association of the Midwest USA

info@foodexport.org

312/334-9230

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Sept. 30 - Oct. 4

Illinois Grain Industry Tour

Illinois

The Illinois Department of Agriculture is inviting international grain leaders to participate in an educational and informational buyer's tour of Illinois' Grain Industry.

Terry English
Bobby Dowson

terry.english@illinois.gov
bobby.dowson@illinois.gov

217/785-0115 (Terry)
217/782-4755 (Bobby)

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October 2007
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5 - 8

Bakery Ingredients Buyers Mission
Tradeshow: International Baking Industry Exposition (IBIE)

Chicago, IL: October 5, 2007
Orlando, FL: October 6 - 8, 2007

Meet One-on-one With International Bakery Ingredient Buyers Who Want Your Products

This is an unparalleled, low cost opportunity to meet with bakery ingredient buyers, importers, distributors etc. that represent wholesale bakery plants, retail, in-house supermarkets, catering, restaurant/hotel and artisan bakers from around the world. The mission will be conducted in conjunction with the IBIE Show. Meetings will be held in Hotels in both Chicago and Orlando. You will have approximately 30 minutes to meet with each buyer that you have pre-selected prior to the mission. The one-on-one meetings will provide you with direct buyer feedback on your product’s international market potential.

FINAL DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION IS SEPTEMBER 24!

Kim Hamilton

kim.hamilton@illinois.gov

217/782-5809

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7 - 10

Bakery Ingredients Buyers Mission

Orlando, Florida

Kim Hamilton

kim.hamilton@illinois.gov

217/782-5809

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13 - 17

ANUGA

Cologne, Germany

The Illinois Department of Agriculture is coordinating Illinois companies’ participation in the USA Foods Pavilion at ANUGA in Cologne, Germany, October 13-17, 2007. ANUGA will be the key international food and beverage trade show in 2007, bringing exhibitors and buyers from almost all countries in the world together in one place. In 2005, 160,000 buyers from over 156 countries on five continents visited ANUGA. About 55% of the trade visitors were from countries other than Germany. Exhibiting at ANUGA can substitute for several weeks of round-the-world travel to meet with your actual and potential customers.

Kim Hamilton

kim.hamilton@illinois.gov

217/782-5809

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17

Illinois Food Expo

Drury Lane Theatre Center
Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois

The 4th Illinois Food Expo will be held Wednesday, October 17, 2007, in the elegant Ballroom at the Drury Lane Theatre Center, Oakbrook Terrace, IL, (a Chicago suburb) from 12:00 Noon – 4:00 p.m. The Expo is a food show designed to bring retail & food service buyers together with Illinois food manufacturers. The cost to participate is $350 (without electricity) or $425 (with electricity).

The Illinois Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Marketing and Promotion, is coordinating this show and will be inviting over 2,500 special food buyers to the show. These buyers represent major retailers, independent retailers, large and small wholesale suppliers, retail and foodservice distributors, convenience store distributors and wholesalers, food brokers, restaurants, hospitals, food service operators, colleges-universities, schools, state institutions and others.

Food product(s) will be sampled on an elegant buffet table, using chaffing pans & attractive serving trays, along with real chinaware & silverware.

All participating food companies will receive a list of the food buyers who are invited to the show, which will contain their names, addresses & telephone numbers.

Larry Aldag

larry.aldag@illinois.gov

217/524-3012

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23 - 25

Livestock Asia 2007

Malaysia

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) has blocked space at Asia’s fastest growing, international trade show for the feed, livestock and meat processing industries, Livestock Asia 2007. The show which is scheduled for October 23-25, 2007 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, is expected to welcome some 6,000 trade show visitors which will include: farmers, processors, feed millers, veterinarians, distributors and retailers.

Bobby Dowson

bobby.dowson@illinois.gov

217/782-4755

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2007 Women's Lifestyle Conference

Peoria, Illinois

The 2007 Women’s Lifestyle Conference will be held on Saturday, October 27th, 2007, at the Peoria Civic Center, Peoria, IL, from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Each year, approximately 10,000 women attend this one-day show. The Peoria Civic Center has added a new section to its facility and the show management company is adding additional booth spaces for the show this year.

The management firm of this show has contacted the Illinois Department of Agriculture to ask if we would organize an “Illinois Products” section at the show.

The cost to participate would be $250 per 10 ft. x 10 ft. booth space, (which includes electricity). (The normal booth space cost is $550 plus the cost of electricity). In addition, food companies who sample their food products will need to purchase a temporary public health permit for $35.

This is a selling show. It is recommended that you sample your food products as well, however, it is not required that you sample your food products.

Women who attend this show pay $6.00 at the door.

If you sample food products, you would have to meet all requirements of the Peoria Public Health Department.

Please contact Larry Aldag if you need additional information or have interest in participating in this show. SPACE IS LIMITED, CONSEQUENTLY REPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

Larry Aldag

larry.aldag@illinois.gov

217/524-3012

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29 - 31

IFE Americas - The 10th Americas Food & Beverage Show

Miami Beach Convention Center
Miami Beach, FL

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) is coordinating Illinois companies’ participation at the IFE Americas Show in Miami, Florida. The department has reserved booth space in the U.S. Pavilion.

Exposure to the Caribbean, South American, Central American, Canadian, and Mexican buyers, importers, exporters, distributors, and consolidators. Attendees will include retailers, distributors, consolidators, importers/exporters, wholesalers, food service operators, cruise line buyers, and hotel industry professionals.

Over 1,200 food and beverage importers, exporters, and distributors are based in Miami, and are constantly looking for new products to add to their lines. Miami’s geographical and transportation advantages make the city the leading food and beverage purchasing and distribution center in the Americas, serving as an ideal platform for market entry in this exciting region.

Sell to cruise line buyers who purchase food and beverage products for 3 million passengers annually.

Key visitors from 2006 were Auchan, Publix, Sysco, Whole Foods Supermarkets, Carnival Cruiselines & Royal Caribbean Cruises.

Kim Hamilton

kim.hamilton@illinois.gov

217/524-5809

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MONTH HEADING
November 2007
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4 - 7

Focused Trade Mission to Chile for Retail Products

Santiago, Chile

Explore the Possibilities of Growing your Business in the Rising Retail Food Market in Chile

Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast are offering a low-cost opportunity to U.S. exporters to meet with a variety of retail and wholesale buyers from Chile. The high peso exchange rate makes imported goods accessible to consumers in Chile.

Participation Agreement

Food Export Association of the Midwest USA

info@foodexport.org

312/334-9230

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6 - 9

Food Ingredients Trade Mission to Taiwan

Taipei, Taiwan

Discover Your Product’s Asian Export Potential

Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast are offering a low-cost opportunity to U.S. exporters to meet with a variety of retail and wholesale buyers from Asia. Suppliers of high-value products have seen export sales outpace domestic sales by a wide margin. Processors and manufacturers who can provide products meeting the increasing demand for improved performance and consumer appeal are in need of ingredient solutions.

Food Export Association of the Midwest USA

info@foodexport.org

312/334-9230

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9 - 14

Focused Trade Mission to the Middle East

Dubai& Kuwait

Meet With Middle Eastern Buyers Who Want Your Products

Meet with targeted foreign buyers one-on-one. Trade Missions are an excellent opportunity to travel internationally, learn more about your product’s export potential and build relationships with interested key importers from the Middle East.

Participation Agreement

Kim Hamilton

kim.hamilton@illinois.gov

217/782-5809

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12 - 13

PLMA Show

Rosemont, Illinois

The PLMA Show has been the premier event for private label products for over 25 years. With over 2,000 booths, it is the largest show of its kind.

The 2007 PLMA Show will feature more than 2,000 exhibit booths, representing manufacturers from 35 countries. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to enter the private label market or to expand your current private label sales.

Participation Agreement

Jim Mackey

jim.mackey@illinois.gov

217/782-2581

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December 2007
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3 - 6

India Processed Food and Food Ingredients Trade Mission

Mumbai, New Delhi, India

Discover Your Product’s Indian Export Potential

This Trade Mission is a cost effective and time-saving trip to help you identify business partners, explore the Indian market, and obtain feedback on your product from key Indian buyers, importers and distributors. During this mission, 20–25 Indian importers/distributors will be invited to see and taste your product.

Food Export Association of the Midwest USA

info@foodexport.org

312/334-9230

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January 2008
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10 - 12

Illinois Specialty Crop Conference

Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center
Springfield, Illinois

Illinois Specialty Growers Association

handley@ilfb.org

Phone 309/557-2107
Fax 309/557-3729

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17 - 18

MIDWEST Organic Production and Marketing Conference & Trade Show

Illinois Union on the Campus of the University of Illinois
Urbana, Illinois

Dan Anderson

aslan@uiuc.edu

Phone: 217/333-1588
Fax: 217/244-3219

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21 - 25

2008 NORTHEAST BUYERS MISSION

Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston

The Northeast Buyers Mission is the largest Buyers Mission of the year. The 2007 Northeast Buyers Mission brought together 83 U.S. suppliers with 26 buyers from 23 countries around the globe. U.S. suppliers walked away from the three-day event with an increase of nearly $400,000 in actual export sales and a potential for an increase of almost $2 million. Plus, twenty-two new distributorships were formed. For a minimal investment, these companies avoided costly and time-consuming international travel by meeting with qualified, interested buyers right here in the U.S. During the 2008 event, one-on-one matchmaker meetings with buyers from around the globe will take place at major hotels in Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston. Not only do these meetings help you establish new relationships and initiate new export sales, they provide an opportunity for you to gain valuable feedback on your product's potential in the various country markets.

Early registration deadline: November 29, 2007

Final registration deadline: December 15, 2007


Will Smith

wsmith@foodexport.org

312-334-9225

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January
23

Land of Lincoln Food Expo

Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds
Springfield, Illinois

The "2nd Land of Lincoln Food Expo" food show will be held on Wednesday, January 23, 2008, in the Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield, IL. This is a new location for the show…all exhibitors will be located in one large room.

The cost to participate is only $75.

Over 1,000 retail and food service food buyers representing major retailers, independent retailers, large and small wholesale suppliers, retail and foodservice distributors, convenience store distributors and wholesalers, food brokers, restaurants, hospitals, food service operators, colleges-universities, schools, state institutions and others will be invited to attend. Buyers located in downstate Illinois and also some buyers located in the Chicago area & even out of state will be invited. Illinois food companies participating in the show will receive a copy of the list of buyers who are being invited to the show.

Participating food companies are encouraged to sample their food products at the show. Electric skillets, microwaves, roaster ovens, etc., can be used to prepare/maintain food samples. A more than ample electric supply is available in the Orr Building. Limited refrigeration space and ice will also be available at no cost.

Please complete & return the "Interest in Participating" Form as soon as possible. An Exhibitor's Packet will be mailed at a later time. This show will provide a very inexpensive venue to promote Illinois food products to retail and food service food buyers. The Illinois Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Marketing & Promotion is coordinating this show.

Informational Flyer

Interest in Participation Form

Larry Aldag

larry.aldag@illinois.gov

217/524-3012

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MONTH HEADING
February 2008
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MONTH HEADING
March 2008
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1 - 2

10th Illinois Products Expo

Orr Building
Springfield, Illinois

Larry Aldag

larry.aldag@illinois.gov

217/524-3012

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2 - 4

Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association
(CRFA Show)

Toronto, Canada

The sign-up deadline for Illinois Dept. of Agriculture sponsorship is December 15th, 2007.

The CRFA Show [Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association] is the combination of the Canadian Food and Beverage Show and Hostex. The event is the largest food service show in Canada and Canada is our largest trading partner. If your company exports products (or wishes to) this show is an excellent opportunity to put your products in front of major buyers from the foodservice industry as well as many retail buyers. Products for catering, hotel, restaurant, and institutional trade are especially relevant at this show..

Jim Mackey

jim.mackey@illinois.gov

217/782-2581

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March
11 - 14

FOODEX Japan 2008

Tokyo, Japan

The Illinois Department of Agriculture will be sponsoring an Illinois stand within the U.S. Pavilion at FOODEX Japan 2008. The show will be held March 11-14, 2008, at Nippon Convention Center (Makuhari Messe) in Tokyo. FOODEX is the largest food and beverage show in Asia, which serves Japan’s $600 billion food market. FOODEX is also attracting an increasingly regional visitor profile, thus providing an outstanding opportunity for promoting your products to other Asian markets. Japan is an $8 billion export market for U.S. food, beverage, and seafood products. With a food self-sufficiency rate of only 40%, Japan is one of the most import-dependent markets in the world. As a result, high Japanese demand for foreign food and beverage products remains a constant, regardless of overall market conditions. Asia-wide trends begin in Japan. For foreign companies, entry into the Japanese market is often the first step to expansion across the entire Asia Pacific region.

Deadline is December 3, 2007.

Kim Hamilton

kim.hamilton@illinois.gov

217/782-5809

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April 2008
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April
23 - 25

SIAL Montreal

Montreal, Canada

SIAL Montreal will host over 700 exhibitors, and 15,000 buyers from all provinces of Canada and 80 other countries. Canada is the #1 market for U.S. consumer food products with consumer-ready products being the largest and fastest growing segment of Canada’s food imports. Canada is also the #1 export market for Illinois’ food products. SIAL Montreal may also be one of the best international shows for displaying your products to a worldwide audience. If your company wants to make inroads in Canada with the additional opportunity of some European buyers, SIAL Montreal may be a good tradeshow choice.

The sponsored booth price is only $2395.

The sign-up deadline is January 15th.

Jim Mackey

jim.mackey@illinois.gov

217/782-2581

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27 - 29

2008 U.S. Food Export Showcase

McCormick Place
Chicago, Illinois

U.S. Food Export Showcase Staying in Chicago for 2008

The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) officially announced that it will co-locate the U.S. Food Export Showcase (USFES) in Chicago in 2008. Together with the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade, Inc.'s (NASFT®) Fancy Food Show® and the Organic Trade Association's (OTA) All Things OrganicT, the co-location will create the largest display of specialty, ethnic, artisanal, natural, organic and American-made, ready-to-export food products in the U.S. The event, scheduled for April 27-29, 2008 at McCormick Place, is expected to draw large delegations of food buyers from North America and around the world.

The U.S. Food Export Showcase is designed to help small and mid-size food manufacturers tap into the growth potential of international markets. NASDA will work closely with its members, four affiliated state regional trade groups (Food Export Association of the Midwest, Food Export USA - Northeast, Southern US Trade Association, and the Western US Agricultural Trade Association) and FAS to offer food industry entrepreneurs an affordable way to reach food buyers from around the world.

The Illinois Dept. of Agriculture will again offer an Illinois Pavilion at the 2008 show. Please watch your e-mail for additional information as it becomes available.

FLYER

Kim Hamilton

kim.hamilton@illinois.gov

217/782-5809

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27 - 29

All Things Organic - Illinois Pavilion

Chicago, Illinois

All Things Organic™ draws focused industry buyers.
Organic is the FASTEST growing segment of the food industry, averaging 20% annual growth since 1997, while total US food sales increased only 3%. All Things Organic™ is growing just as fast – as the only event in the industry focused exclusively on organic products, it delivers a focused audience like no other trade show.

No other trade show delivers these buyers.
In 2008, All Things Organic™ will be co-located with the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade’s (NASFT) Fancy Food Show and the US Food Export Showcase at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois.

Attendees Have Buying Power…
90% of attendees on this show floor have buying power. From our direct marketing campaign through to show attendance, we cover the industry. As an exhibitor, you will be face-to-face and hand-to-hand with buyers from all sectors of the market looking to research and evaluate organic products, find new suppliers, and learn about the organic industry.

All Things Organic™ is your best opportunity to launch products, meet buyers, network with industry peers, increase distribution and show your commitment to the organic industry.

FLYER

Delayne Reeves

delayne.reeves@illinois.gov

217/524-9129

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May 2008
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May
5 - 7

2008 FMI Show

Mandalay Bay Convention Center
Las Vegas, Nevada

The Illinois Department of Agriculture is sponsoring an Illinois Pavilion at the 2008 FMI Show. The show will be held on May 5 - 7, 2008 and will take place at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

FMI is North America's largest food distribution show. Twenty-five thousand supermarket retailers, wholesalers, distributors, and importer/exporters from across North America & around the globe (133 countries) come to the FMI Show looking for food & beverage products. As an Illinois Pavilion participant at FMI, your company can be part of the largest state-sponsored area at the show. Top category buyers attend FMI to view many areas including food, beverage, pharmacy, general merchandis, & technology. FMI also promotes companies to get distribution in every retail outlet, such as specialty stores, mass merchants, department stores, convenience sotre, & supermarket chains.

Deadline is December 3, 2007.

Kim Hamilton

kim.hamilton@illinois.gov

217/782-5809

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May
14 - 16

SIAL China

Shanghai, China

SIAL China will bring over 22,000 trade visitors from across Asia to Shanghai, the new commercial platform for the region. With strong ties to the major mass retailers in China, SIAL China expects to pre-schedule over 400 individual meetings between exhibitors and qualified buyers. Exhibiting in the USA pavilion at SIAL China 2008 is a solid opportunity to tap the potential of the world’s most populous and fastest growing market. If your company does business in Asia or would like to explore the possibilities, this is a great opportunity.

The sponsored booth price is only $2500.

The sign-up deadline is January 15th.

Jim Mackey

jim.mackey@illinois.gov

217/782-2581

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May
17 - 20

2008 National Restaurant Association (NRA) Restaurant Hotel-Motel Show

McCormick Place
Chicago, Illinois

The Illinois Department of Agriculture is sponsoring an Illinois Pavilion at the 2008 NRA Show. The show will be held on May 17 - 20, 2008 and will take place at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois.

The American Food Fair will join the National Restaurant Show (NRA) to provide Illinois companies top exposure to the lucrative $537 billion restaurant and lodging business. The NRA Show is the largest single gathering in the world of foodservice and lodging professionals that include corporate executives, owners/operators, franchisees, managers and purchasing agents of foodservice, hotel/motel operations, cruise lines, airlines/commissary, entertainment concessions, military, and contract foodservice. The show includes more that 2,142 exhibitors and 73,500+ attendees from 50 state and 115 countries. More than 5,700 international buyers attend the show.

Deadline is December 3, 2007.

Kim Hamilton

kim.hamilton@illinois.gov

217/782-5809

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June 2008
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July 2008
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August 2008
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FOOTER

Illinois Department of Agriculture
Bureau of Marketing and Promotions

State Fairgrounds, P. O. Box 19281
Springfield, Illinois  62794-9281
Phone:  217/782-6675
Fax:  217/524-5960
Email: 
agr.markets@illinois.gov
Website:  www.agr.state.il.us

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