As the global food and beverage industry continues to navigate shifting trade dynamics, evolving consumer demands, and post-pandemic recovery, the America Food & Beverage Show and Conference stands out as a crucial platform connecting exporters, manufacturers, distributors, and buyers across the Western Hemisphere.
In this exclusive interview, a British senior analyst specialising in international trade and the food sector speaks with Alice Ancona, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the World Trade Centre Miami. With over two decades of experience in advancing international trade policy, economic development, and export facilitation, Ms. Ancona plays a central role in shaping the strategic direction of one of America’s most prominent trade events.
Interview
- What sets the Americas Food & Beverage Show apart from other major food industry exhibitions across the United States?
The Americas Food & Beverage Show is the only U.S.-based trade event specifically focused on the Americas—connecting North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Organized by the World Trade Center Miami, the show emphasizes accessibility for small and medium-sized enterprises, providing turnkey exhibition options and unmatched access to international buyers. Notably, 87% of buyers have purchasing influence and 49% do not attend any other U.S. show, making this event uniquely effective for exhibitors seeking real ROI. The Show’s scale, diversity, and targeted approach to regional trade make it an essential platform for food and beverage professionals.
- How is this year’s edition reflecting current trends such as sustainability, plant-based innovation, or the rise in health-conscious products?
The 2025 edition highlights emerging consumer trends through curated seminar sessions, the New Products Showcase, and live demonstrations. A strong focus has been placed on sustainability, plant-based innovation, and health-conscious options across product categories—from frozen and dairy to seafood and snacks. Exhibitors are encouraged to showcase new launches aligned with these themes, supported by targeted marketing efforts and high-visibility opportunities including Center Stage demos and digital engagement via the mobile app and online platform.
- What kind of opportunities does the show offer to international food and beverage producers aiming to enter the U.S. market?
International producers gain access to thousands of pre-qualified buyers, importers, distributors, and retail chains seeking new products. With buyers coming from over 120 countries, the show serves as a vital entry point into the competitive U.S. market as well as the rest of the Americas. The all-inclusive turnkey booth packages and value-added marketing tools—such as digital exhibitor showcases and personalized appointment scheduling—lower the barrier to entry and ensure meaningful engagement. Additionally, conference sessions cover U.S. compliance, labeling, and logistics—critical know-how for market entry.
- Miami has become a strategic hub for trade between North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean. How significant is this location for the success of the show?
Miami is more than just the venue—it’s a strategic advantage. With its multilingual, multicultural business environment and geographic proximity to key global markets, Miami functions as the commercial bridge between the Americas. The city’s status as a trade and logistics hub reinforces the show’s regional relevance and attracts high-level decision-makers from across the hemisphere. Florida’s $1.72 trillion GDP, over 140 million visitor market and a leader in growth in consumer spending further amplify the show’s market impact.
- Can you tell us more about the calibre of buyers attending this year and the categories they are most actively sourcing?
Buyers attending the show represent a high-caliber mix of retail chains, specialty stores, import/export firms, and foodservice distributors. Key product categories being sourced include frozen foods (43%), snacks (43%), seafood (39%), dairy products (36%), meat products (34%), and beverages—both alcoholic (32%) and non-alcoholic (29%). These buyers supply a range of global regions, including the U.S. (31%), Latin America (30%), the Caribbean (16%), and Europe/Middle East (11%). The show’s appeal to decision-makers ensures strong purchasing outcomes for participating brands.