Group interaction and dialogue is a key part of the Summit.

Mike Wigell, founder of the FSES, had a vision that industry leaders could actually get together and solve problems rather than just hear about them.  "The industry is full of events where you go, hear the problems, and then leave without any real discussion of how to solve them" was a familiar line from Mike as he built the conference early on.  Mike believed that if you brought a group of people together, kept it small, and had representation from all links in the supply chain, honest dialogue and information sharing could result from such a setting.

The FSES has evolved into an invitation only event for leaders in the foodservice industry.  Attendance is limited to 80 people to obtain the intimacy and interaction of the event.  As many have experienced in the past, the uniqueness of the conference is the open dialogue and idea sharing that truly leads to business results.

The first year of the conference, 1996, was attended by approximately 20 individuals in the industry.  The culture of the conference over the years has evolved into a tightly connected group that extend their relationships throughout the year to make a noticeable impact on the industry and help each other when needed.  It is in this spirit that the conference planning committee maintains the integrity of the event to adhere to Mike's vision.

Testimonials:

Jeff Sinelli  CEO  Whichwich
The Foodservice Economic Summit puts you in a place, both mentally and physically, to think about the industry that we all love.  It is important to take a few days a year and breakaway with both operators and vendors to challenge and learn together.  If you are a leader of a company, you owe it to yourself and your team to take advantage of this event...and leave a better person, friend, and leader for participating.
John Taylor  Team Panera- Panera Bread Company
I have found the Foodservice Economic Summit to be one of those rare opportunities to engage current suppliers and (prospective) business partners in developing real and actionable food & beverage projects.  The agendas and activities support opportunities for enhanced interaction and real communication.  With "limitless" choices today for meetings, workshops, and conferences, this one should be at the top of everyone's list.
Phil Costner- COO La Madeleine ,Country French cafe
The Foodservice Economic Summit is one of the most useful and meaningful events I have attended in several years. The group is diverse enough to gather information and opinion from a broad base of perspectives, yet intimate enough that meaningful dialogue is the norm. The leadership of the Foodservice Economic Summit just plain “gets it!”
George Katakalides – CEO, Daphne’s Greek café
 “Challenging times require deeper focus. Deeper focus requires the thought and stimulation of sharing that the people of Foodservice Economic Summit bring to the table. The Summit provides a fun and picturesque environment for the sharing of ideas, and building relationships that support that deeper process. I look forward to my next opportunity to attend!”
Mary Cusick- Sr Vice President Restaurant Marketing- Bob Evans Restaurnts
"The opportunity to informally spend time with business partners, as well as those who may potentially be partners, is invaluable.  The casual setting in an inspiring location is a compelling mix."
Peter Roskovich, PrincipalBlack Diamond Catering and Adams Ribs
Over the past two years I have attended the FSES in Sun Valley, Idaho. From the first night at River Run Lodge the group embraced my wife and I and made me feel  like  one of the gang.  From that night forward things only were better, from the incredible Keynote speakers to riding up the lift someone you just meet in the morning session.  I was meeting and talking to industry leaders on a first name basis and sharing all kinds of information. What a great learning experience!