Kosherfest, the renowned trade fair for the kosher-certified food industry, has made a significant announcement regarding its future. After a long-standing tradition of hosting the event at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, New Jersey, Kosherfest has declared that it will no longer continue the show.
Since its inception in 1989, Kosherfest has been a highly anticipated gathering featuring an expansive exhibition hall, informative lectures, captivating cooking demonstrations, an exciting culinary competition among celebrity chefs, and the prestigious presentation of new product awards. However, the organizers have decided to bring an end to this longstanding event, marking a significant shift in the landscape of the kosher-certified food industry.
Read full statement below:
“After extensive discussions with our consultant, bellwether exhibitors and very thorough analysis, we have made the difficult decision to discontinue Kosherfest,” the company announced. “Due to today’s changing supermarket category manager buying responsibilities and the elimination of the kosher buyer in many major supermarket chains, exhibitors feel Kosherfest has run its course and there is no longer significant ROI to justify exhibiting at the show.”
Within supermarket chains, the kosher food category increasingly falls under the grocery buyer’s responsibility, Kosherfest says. As this buyer is responsible for sourcing and purchasing a wide array of products, they are more likely to attend food events displaying items not just exclusive to kosher. “A certified kosher only food show such as Kosherfest is too niche for their attendance,” the company explains.
All exhibit space deposits received for this year’s show will be refunded within the next 2 – 3 weeks.”
Zev Brenner brought on his show Menachem Lubinsky, the founder of Kosherfest 33 years ago and they discuss the termination of the annual event.
