Currently, I am responsible for the operations of my family’s small business, GR Catering, in which we handle a wide variety of events from weddings, corporate luncheons, and private house parties. On September 25th, 2018 I attended my first food expo held at the Convention Center in downtown San Diego. This food expo was held by my company’s food purveyor Shamrock Foods who, provided a great showcase of delicious foods. From this event I was able to network with different vendors, observe the current state of food trends, as well as become a more competent manager within my profession.

Attending the Shamrock Foods Expo provided me with a great experience to enhance my skills and knowledge pertaining to the food industry. This event provided me with a great platform to practice communicating with various sales representatives from over 50 companies, discussing pricing of various products, today’s food trends, and establishing relationships. Additionally, the sheer amount of products and presentations opened my mind to endless possibilities for new food items that I would like to implement into GR Catering’s menus. Overall, the Shamrock Food Expo was a great experience in enhancing my skills and expertise as a food manager. Discussions with various industry professionals along with observing products and presentations has had a strong impact on how I will approach my job moving forward.