Business View Magazine | June 2022

170 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 9, ISSUE 6 local fairs and shows. Thus, the work of the IAFE is very diverse. To meet the needs of all members requires scalability in educational programming in addition to meeting niche market needs. To meet member needs and to drive industry innovation, the professional staff of the IAFE works with a robust committee structure. There are 13 committees focusing on educational programming activities. Another eight committees are focused on administrative functions and specific activity programming. Altogether, in 2022 there are nearly 800 individuals serving on these committees to ensure the education, information and networking opportunities provided through the Association will meet the needs of the members. And what are those needs today? Again, the scope is as diverse as the membership, but top priorities for 2022 – 2024 include: technology (how to use it, finding affordable platforms, going cashless), safety and security (the current turmoil and unrest within many communities following the pandemic has impacted guest behavior at public events), marketing (understanding how to reach audiences when communication channels are fractured and segmented), and the role of the fair in bridging the information (and perception) divide between the people who are producing food and fiber and today’s consumer. The IAFE addresses these needs through multiple channels. Regular communication is key, and thus three times per week a short, e-mail called the News Brief is sent to all members. This typically contains links to three or four news items of interests about members, as well as action links to upcoming IAFE events or learning sessions. The Fairs & Expos magazine