WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7
7:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
Silent Auction
The SHFM Foundation auction raises funds to promote and educate college students on the merits of onsite foodservice and hospitality. Bid High and Bid Often! |
7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
Registration |
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. |
Innovation Showcase Exhibitor Set Up |
8:00 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. |
Breakfast Sponsored by David Rio Chai and Tea & Middleby |
8:45 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. |
Opening General Session Unlocking Limitless Possibility: The Power of Yes, And... DreamJoyPossibility Sponsored by Aramark and Hoshizaki Alliance Seb Terry, Speaker, Author In this high-energy and deeply human session, Seb Terry shares a practical framework for unlocking limitless possibility — even amid rapid change and evolving workplace expectations. Through storytelling, humor and audience interaction, Seb explores how personal growth, bold action and meaningful connection help us embrace uncertainty, spark creativity and ignite the best in others. Attendees will leave inspired to think differently, lead boldly and create ripple effects that positively impact the workplace and communities we serve. The goals we dare to speak aloud have a way of finding their moment. Don't hold back — whether it's personal, professional or something for the community, please share one bucket list goal that you'd like to achieve this year. It may be shared with conference attendees. You never know what's possible.
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10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. |
Innovation Showcase
The innovations are coming — don't miss your window. This year, sponsors exhibit at two dedicated times, bringing the freshest products and services straight to the floor. These are your moments to connect with key industry representatives and see what's shaping the future of foodservice. Please be sure to show your support to our generous sponsors, who have made this conference possible, by browsing their innovations! |
10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. |
Student / Fellow Session |
12:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. |
President’s Luncheon Sponsored by Infuse Hospitality LLC Enjoy lunch while we honor the best in the industry and recognize SHFM award winners! |
2:00 p.m. |
Silent Auction Finale
Last chance to snag incredible items—get your final bids in now for the SHFM Foundation! |
2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. |
General Session Yes—And...Getting Practical with A.I. AIHands-OnFuture-proof Sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company and Sodexo Joseph Schumaker, FCSI, Founder CEO, FoodSpace® Dive deep into how AI is transforming our industry — from big-picture trends to practical, day-to-day applications. You’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of where AI stands today, what’s possible moving forward and how to integrate it into your own work. Plus, hear real-world use cases that bring these ideas to life.
To get the most out of this session, we encourage you to bring a laptop or tablet. This session will include interactive, hands-on elements.
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3:15 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
Work Catch-Up Break |
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. |
Hunger Games
Thank you to our Hunger Games sponsors! Back by popular demand, Hunger Games will feature six events that will test your skills and ability to perform as a team. The team earning the most points wins. Best of all, proceeds from this year’s event will benefit Care for Real. Get ready to compete and raise money for a great cause. Not interested in competing? Pack toiletry kits to support Care for Real. All materials and supplies will be provided for you to assemble. Hunger Games and packing are an additional fee when you register for conference. Learn more. |
6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. |
Palmer Pre-Dinner Pour
A drink before you go! Cheers to a night out in Chicago before you head out to dinner. From there, the city is yours. |
6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. |
Experience Chicago – Curate Your Evening
An evening designed to let you experience Chicago, your own way! Whether it’s steaks, deep-dish pizza or that can’t-miss neighborhood spot everyone’s talking about, this is your chance experience the city alongside colleagues, clients and industry friends. Chicago restaurants book quickly, so we encourage you to start making dinner reservations now and lock in your plans early. Then, head back for late-night reception (details below). If you’re attending solo or new to the SHFM community, don’t worry — we’ll have opportunities to help make connections and ensure everyone feels part of the experience. Additional details will be shared closer to conference. What would a Chicago Local do for dinner? We asked fellow attendees for recommendations, they’ve got you covered. |
9:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. |
Empire Dessert Lounge & Nightcap
Sponsored by Global Payments, High Liner Foods, Hatco Corporation, & Mr Bing Foods Inspired by the legendary Bertha Palmer — known for her grand entertaining style and role in shaping Chicago’s hospitality scene — this late-night gathering brings attendees back together for cocktails, dessert and conversation in the Empire Room. |
Legends Only
Hunger Games is back!
Six team challenges and big energy all in support of Care for Real. Not a competitor? Cheer loud or pack snack bags for a great cause.
Register for Hunger Games when you register for conference.
