Cheese Professionals Head to Buffalo, New York for American Cheese Society Conference

The event brings together cheesemakers and industry professionals from across the country

PUBLISHED ON June 23, 2024

DENVER, Colo. — The American Cheese Society (ACS) is excited to announce that its 41st annual conference, “Cheese For Real,” will be held in Buffalo, New York, next month, July 10-13. This highly anticipated event brings together cheese producers and industry professionals from across the country to celebrate the dynamic and growing market for world-class American cheeses.

The conference is a key event for the ACS, reflecting our unwavering commitment to education and innovation within the cheese industry. As the market continues to evolve, the ACS Annual Conference serves as a platform to prepare new generations of members to lead and innovate. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational sessions and networking events designed to inspire and empower the next wave of industry leaders.

“We are very excited to be in Buffalo, New York, in July for our 41st annual conference,” said Tara Holmes, executive director of the ACS. “This year’s theme, “Cheese For Real,” embodies our commitment to authenticity, quality and the rich traditions that define American cheesemaking. We look forward to welcoming our members and celebrating our community’s incredible contributions to the culinary world.

This year’s conference is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors, including our brand sponsors: Gourmet Foods International (GFI), Lactalis USA and Wegmans. Their commitment to excellence and support of the cheese industry plays a central role in the success of this event. “We are thrilled to sponsor the ACS Conference in Buffalo, New York,” said Cathy Gaffney, Wegmans Vice President – ​​Specialty Cheeses, Deli & Kosher. “Over the past 20 years, we have seen American cheeses grow in incredible ways. At Wegmans, we are committed to supporting the cheese community and bringing people together to improve quality, food safety and education. This conference is the perfect place to share ideas and make connections that help support the continued growth of American cheeses.

Highlights of the 2024 ACS Annual Conference will include:

• Educational sessions: Covering a wide range of topics from cheesemaking techniques and trends to sustainability and marketing strategies.
• Cheese tastings and pairings: Featuring a diverse lineup of American-made cheeses, paired with wines, beers and other accompaniments.
• Networking Opportunities: Facilitate connections between cheesemakers, retailers, distributors and enthusiasts.
• AWARDS CEREMONY: Celebrate the best in American cheese with the prestigious ACS Judging & Competition Awards. The awards ceremony is sponsored by Gourmet Food International. “The American Cheese Society Judging and Competition holds a special place for GFI. As founding members of the ACS, we are pleased to have the opportunity to recognize and elevate the names of outstanding American cheese producers. By recognizing their hard work and artistry, we can help extend their reach beyond their local area, allowing their businesses to thrive and giving them the chance to create something that can be passed down to the next generation dairy producers and cheese makers. These awards and recognitions are not only symbols of achievement, but also serve as a foundation for growth and demonstrate the shared commitment in North and South America to sustainable agriculture, animal welfare positive and the craft of cheesemaking,” said Brian Scott, President of GFI.

Buffalo, known for its rich history, vibrant culture and culinary scene, provides the perfect backdrop for this year’s conference. Participants will also have the chance to explore the city’s renowned attractions and enjoy its hospitality.

Join us in Buffalo this July to celebrate the craftsmanship, creativity and community that define American cheese. For more information and to register for the conference, please visit: https://www.cheesesociety.org/conference/conference-2024.

About the American Cheese Society
The ACS is the leading organization supporting the understanding, appreciation and promotion of artisan, farmhouse and specialty cheeses produced in the Americas. With 2,300 members, the ACS provides advocacy, education, business development and networking opportunities to cheesemakers, retailers, enthusiasts and the broader industry. ACS strives to continually improve the quality and availability of cheese in the Americas. Since its founding in 1983, the ACS has proudly hosted the largest annual educational conference and world-renowned cheese judging and competitions in North America. ACS is a 501(c)6 nonprofit organization headquartered in Denver, Colorado. To learn more about ACS, please visit www.cheesesociety.org or contact 720-328-2788.

— American Cheese Society