Message from the President of MAFTO

Greetings

As the new President of MAFTO, I would like to give a brief overview of my professional background. After graduating from the University of Maryland, I began my career working retail and administration and worked my way up to sales management and operations in the Grocery, Home Center and Value classes of trade. I am currently with Advantage Solutions and manage the East Central Regional Sales Office for Grocery. My love of the industry leads back to our customers, clients, and associates. Our business is exciting and full of opportunity, and I enjoy the challenge of bringing positive results to all parties involved.

I am thrilled to be serving as MAFTO President in 2023. I will continue to lead the organization in excellence, as my predecessor, John Brennan did. Our Executive Team and Board of Directors is amazing, and they work tirelessly to plan and execute our fundraising events throughout the year all on a volunteer basis. A few of our signature events include our Annual Golf Outing, Retailer Dinner, Retailer Gala, Christmas for All Kids, and the Community Care Package Fundraiser.

As we head into the new year, I am excited about the opportunities that are in front of us. MAFTO’s foundation is our membership which is comprised of local manufacturers, brokers, retailers, wholesalers, distributors, and associated companies. The Mid-Atlantic Food Trade Organization is a 501c3 entity whose mission is to improve quality of lives through charity, education, scholarships, social events, and networking while advancing and promoting the culture of the food industry in the Delaware Valley. We have successfully awarded scholarships to families involved in the food community and to food marketing students at St. Joseph’s University. We have also supported organizations such as Philabundance and Small Things to help the food insecure. We look forward to seeing our success help others.

Our goals for 2023 are simple. The first goal is to get more retailers, CPG companies and brokers involved in MAFTO and our events. There is much opportunity out there to come together, network and support our communities and the future food industry leaders. The second goal is to raise additional funds in 2023 to be able to award more scholarships and help those in need. Our third goal is to continue the exemplary work of our committees within the organization that assist the community when the need arises.

I hope that MAFTO can count on you to be involved and active in our 2023 programs.

Best Wishes,
Jennifer Bergman