Autumnal tumult

We kicked off the European vacation period with our Summer Barbecue. It was well-attended with a lively vibe and the food was oh so tasty: our networking barbecues are always one of the highlights of the year. And because business never stops, there was of course lots of swapping of business cards.

We tried to take a group photo again this year, but the platform has got too small (or the group has got too big, depending on your point of view!). Luckily we’ve uploaded the photos online so that you can nevertheless get an impression of the atmosphere and the large number of attendees.

The holiday period is now behind us (for most of us at least) and the tumult is about to begin again. This autumn, as every year, there are virtually back-to-back events. You hardly have time to clear up after one trade show before you’re setting up for the next one.

And of course, it’s time to start preparing for 2015: going through all the sales leads and promotional activities from the trade shows and deciding on your communication strategy. Should you focus even more heavily on digital? It’s a hectic time of the year for me too, but my team and I have recharged our batteries and we’re ready for action.

Luckily, amidst all this, there’s still time for a little relaxation. You can relax ‘constructively’ on our company visits – such as to ROVC in early October: ‘Find that much-needed technician’ including an interactive workshop. Or join me on our visit to NIZO Food Research in November, which is themed ‘Successful Reformulation’ and includes a presentation on virtual product development. Needless to say we will receive a tour of the facilities and the Pilot Plant, where we will see, touch and sometimes even taste new approaches and techniques for successful reformulation.  

Another date for your diary is 26 November 2014. That’s when we are organising the ‘Smaakstampei’ tasting event in Ede, which will once again feature surprising food products from various companies.

This autumn, the OSV and YFM associations are once again offering a good mix of ‘need to know’ and ‘nice to know’ activities. Seize those opportunities!

Saskia Stender