Kalamazoo, Mich., will once again welcome nearly 1,000 food industry professionals this March 24 to 25, 2026 for the The WMU Food Marketing Conference (The FMC). The FMC brings food marketing and CPG leaders together with talented students from Western Michigan University’s food marketing program. 

The conference centers on the latest trends, with a unique blend of seasoned experience and the next generation of food industry thought leadership.

“We are thrilled to host a great lineup of speakers who represent all facets of the food industry,” says Dr. Russell Zwanka, director of The FMC and WMU food marketing program. “The FMC has been a long-standing, well-attended conference because we bring expert speakers and big ideas to conference participants in a setting that encourages networking and personal connections. The caliber of our speakers and our food marketing students creates a great atmosphere. There is truly nothing comparable in the industry.”

The assortment of topics provides a special flavor to the event, including sessions about fresh ideas, industry shifts and solutions for the core challenges retailers and manufacturers face. The FMC agenda will address the following subjects: 

• The intersection between business and technology, including AI’s role in the food industry
• Market dynamics impacting natural, organic and specialty
• What consumers want: value, protein and information
• Disruption, change, innovation and transformation in the industry
• Health and wellness trends

“The corporate ladder doesn’t exist at The FMC,” says Zwanka. “Presidents, CEOS, vice presidents and directors of business network with all the conference attendees including our food marketing students. THE FMC is a hand-crafted professional experience that is welcoming and value-added for all.”

Reserve your spot at The FMC.

WMU food marketing: An appetite for success

With decades of experience in educating food marketing professionals, the WMU program is a leading force in the food and CPG industries. During the conference, Zwanka will provide an update about the program, its key features and outcomes for program graduates.

The opening of the Food Marketing Hub in late September has given the program a dedicated space for even more engagement with employers and industry partners and the opportunity for social activities that promote peer connections and a sense of belonging.

According to the WMU Career Outcomes Report:

•    100% of food marketing graduates participated in Experience-Driven Learning while earning their degree.
•    100% of food marketing graduates working full time are satisfied with their job.
•    100% of food marketing graduates had instructors who made them excited about learning.