[Camp Hill, PA] – The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA) is excited to announce the 2025 PFMA Annual Conference, taking place May 13-14, 2025, at the stunning Omni Bedford Springs Resort. This premier event brings together industry leaders, retailers, wholesalers, and suppliers for two days of expert insights, invaluable networking, and industry innovation.
Set against the backdrop of the Omni Bedford Springs Resort, this year’s conference blends historic elegance with modern convenience. Nestled in Pennsylvania’s scenic countryside, the resort boasts over 200 years of hospitality, breathtaking mountain views, natural mineral springs, a world-class golf course, and top-tier amenities.
Conference Highlights
- Session #1: Supporting a Neurodivergent Workforce
This session will explore how businesses can create inclusive workplaces and support neurodivergent employees. Featuring David Simonetti, Senior Director of Store Operations at Wawa; Leslie Long, Executive Director of Popcorn for the People; Dianne Malley, Director of Community Impact, AJ Drexel Autism Institute; Dana Barone, M.A., VR Specialist Supervisor/InVEST Project Director, PA Department of Labor & Industry, Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.
- Session #2: From Response to Recovery: Crisis Communication and Coordination
Learn how to navigate crisis situations, protect your business, and effectively communicate during emergencies. Featuring Jeff Maybray, Regional Asset Protection Manager at Northeast Shared Services; Christine Heyser, Mass Care Coordinator at PA Department of Human Services; Katie Murphy, Senior Manager of Business Continuity & Resilience at C&S Wholesale Grocers; and Molly Dougherty, External Affairs Director at PA Emergency Management Agency (PEMA).
- PFMA Wholesaler Meeting
- Mini Trade Show
A showcase of the latest products and services from top suppliers, offering a firsthand look at cutting-edge industry solutions.
- Lisa Dell’Alba Food Industry Trailblazer Award
Recently renamed in honor of former PFMA President Lisa Dell’Alba, this award recognizes outstanding leadership in the food industry. This year’s recipient is Tom Charley of Charley Family Shop ‘n Save, a dedicated industry leader and PFMA board member.
- Golf Outing
Attendees can enjoy a round on the historic Old Course at Omni Bedford Springs, one of America’s most iconic golf courses—perfect for networking in a relaxed setting.
- Cocktail Reception & Dinner
An evening to connect with industry peers, celebrate achievements, and strengthen relationships.
“The PFMA Annual Conference is about bringing people together—sharing ideas, making connections, and learning from each other. With expert speakers, a dynamic trade show, and the incredible setting of Omni Bedford Springs Resort, it’s a great opportunity to grow your business and strengthen our industry.” Alex Baloga, PFMA President & CEO.
With an unparalleled venue, insightful sessions, and valuable networking opportunities, the 2025 PFMA Annual Conference is an event you won’t want to miss.
📅 When: May 13-14, 2025
📍 Where: Omni Bedford Springs Resort
🎟️ Register now: pfma.org/2025AC
Secure your spot today and be part of PA’s premier food and beverage industry event!
- Expert Panel Sessions: Join industry leaders for engaging discussions on key topics, including workforce inclusion and more. Details to come!
- Mini Trade Show: Explore the latest products, services, and innovations from top suppliers in the industry.
- Cocktail Reception & Dinner: Network with peers over cocktails, followed by a formal dinner celebrating industry achievements.
- Lis Dell’Alba Food Industry Trailblazer Award: Join us as we honor a distinguished industry leader with this year’s Trailblazer Award—recipient to be announced soon!
- PFMA Wholesaler Meeting: A dedicated session for wholesalers to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the industry.
Agenda
DAY ONE | Tuesday, May 13, 2025
9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. | Golf Course
Golf
Noon-3:00 p.m.
Vendor set-up
(Optional. Must register in advance.)
9:00-4:00 p.m.
Free time (non-golfers)
3:00-4:00pm
Wholesalers meeting
(PFMA wholesalers only)
4:00-9:00 p.m.
Mini trade show vendor tables
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Cocktail Reception
Mingle with colleagues and trade show vendors.
6:30-8:00 p.m.
Dinner & Lisa Dell’Alba Food Industry Trailblazer Award
8:00-9:00 p.m.
After Dinner
Drinks and vendor mingle
DAY TWO | Wednesday, May 14, 2025
7:30 a.m.
Registration opens
8:00-9:00 a.m.
Buffet Breakfast
9:15-10:15 a.m.
Session #1
Supporting a neurodivergent workforce, presented by
- Dave Simonetti – Sr. Director, Wawa, Inc.
- Leslie Long – Executive Director, Popcorn for the People
- Dianne Malley – Director of Community Impact, AJ Drexel Autism Institute
- Dana Barone, M.A. – VR Specialist Supervisor/InVEST Project Director, PA Department of Labor & Industry, Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation
10:30-11:30 a.m.
Session #2
From Response to Recovery: Crisis Communication and Coordination
- Jeff Maybray – Regional Asset Protection Manager, Northeast Shared Services
- Christine Heyser – Mass Care Coordinator, Pennsylvania Department of Human Services
- Katie Murphy – Senior Manager, Business Continuity & Resilience, C&S Wholesale Grocers
- Molly Dougherty – External Affairs Director, Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency
Moderated by: Maria Maggio – VP/GM, Food Trade News
11:45 a.m.-Noon
Annual Meeting
(All attendees welcome)
Noon-1:00 p.m.
Lunch
1:15 -2:45 p.m.
Board Meeting
(PFMA board members only)
