“Saving the Planet” or “Going Green” may seem like just lip service at times, but the International Dairy Deli Bakery Association knocked it out of the park at their recent show featuring several home run efforts.

As a result, IDDBA will be presented with the TSNN Best of Sustainability Award, sponsored exclusively by GES, at the 2019 TSNN Awards Nov. 15-17 in Dallas.

“IDDBA is honored to be recognized by the industry and TSNN for our continued sustainability efforts.  This is the culmination of planning and hard work by countless staff, exhibitors, board members and partners like GES”, said Bobbie Strohbusch, IDDBA Exhibits Director.   

Strohbusch added, “It is the expectation of those we serve in the industry and today’s consumer that we be environmentally conscious and forward thinking in efforts to create healthy and safe environments in all we do.  There is no doubt the bar is set high for the future.  Raising the bar is a win for all in our industry.”

IDDBA didn’t just do one sustainable effort during their show, held June 2-4 in Orlando, they accomplished a few below:

Carbon Offsets:

For 2019, IDDBA focused on reducing CO2 emissions. In prior years, IDDBA  ran approximately 50-60 trailers,  which consumed approximately 35-50 gallons of diesel fuel every day  over the two week time frame of show set up, show dates and tear down . This year, IDDBA ran refrigerated and frozen trailers off 208 volt, 60 amp, 3 phase electricity.  This created a diversion of approximately 326-389 tons of CO₂.  equating to 63-75 passenger vehicles driven for one year, 36-42 homes energy use for one year, and the ability to charge over 38-44 million smartphones.

Food Donations:

Every year after IDDBA’s trade show, its exhibiting companies are encouraged to reduce wasted food by donating their products to help those in need.  As IDDBA 2019 was hosted in Orlando, FL, the association collaborated with the city’s Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida to give back to the community.

Hundreds of exhibiting companies at the trade show generously provided donations. 176,315 pounds of food, was donated which translates to 146,870 meals. The food bank distributes these donations to more than 550 feeding partners that include food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, senior centers, daycares, and more throughout Central Florida.

The award will be presented onstage by GES at the 2019 TSNN Awards Gala at which the 50 fastest-growing shows for attendance and net square footage also will be celebrated. www.T-awards.com. “Environmental stewardship is a key focus of GES’ commitment to corporate social responsibility, and it’s rewarding to partner with the International Dairy Deli Bakery Association on unique sustainability initiatives,” said GES CSO Jeff Quade.

He added, “Together, through innovative planning, the 2019 IDDBA show diverted more than 300 tons of CO₂. Congratulations to IDDBA on winning the TSNN Sustainability Award. GES and our employees share your commitment to sustainability, and we look forward to achieving even greater results in the future.”

The IDDBA is the leading trade association for the dairy, deli, and bakery buyers and sellers. IDDBA is committed to developing programs and services that support its members and the industry.  In addition to its renowned trade show, its focus is on research, training, and professional development.

TSNN is partnered on the TSNN Awards with Visit Dallas. A full list of sponsors can be found HERE