The QCS 2023 Annual Conference, which took place in Orlando, Florida, from October 22-24, showcased the importance of value in partnership. The three-day event included educational sessions, networking opportunities, and an awards ceremony for member and supply partner companies. The 2023 conference, themed Value in Partnership, opened with QCS Purchasing Cooperative President and CEO Ken Klug and QCS Board Chairman Bill Meier welcoming attendees, providing an overview of the coop’s performance, and touching on 2024 strategic plans.

“Encouragement and support for each other is key to the long-term success of our cooperative—this was the intentional theme of this year’s conference,” said QCS Board Chairman, Bill Meier, who is also president of Excel Bottling Company.

Keynote speaker Jimmy Yeary, country music singer and songwriter, demonstrated to the more than 300 attendees why forming meaningful relationships and connecting with others is essential. The talented Yeary wrote a song on the spot during his keynote presentation, using attendee responses to his questions to create the lyrics.

“The impressive consistent growth and success of our cooperative is testimony to strong supply partnerships that deliver greater efficiency to our member-owners,” said Ken Klug, QCS CEO. “We celebrate with our member-owners and supply partners and are optimistic that the positive momentum can provide a strong 2024 and empower members to be the best in class in the food and beverage industry.”

What did attendees like most about the conference?

“The contacts made.”
“I liked the supply partner showcase. People were engaged.”
“Meeting with similar companies to share experiences.”
“The one-on-one discussion opportunities: coffee breaks, side-meetings, breakfast meetings (group or separate), category leader tables, table-top displays, gala dinner, and afternoon/evening talks.”
“Loved it! We engage with suppliers we never thought we could utilize.”
“We found 5-6 new relationships we now will use through QCS. “
“The supply partner showcase was a great introduction (as a first-time attendee) to many supply partners we can engage with.”

---

---