DENVER, Colo. – June 14, 2024 – The American Cheese Society (ACS) is thrilled to announce that its 41st Annual Conference, “Cheese For Real,” will be held in Buffalo, New York next month, from July 10-13, 2024. This highly anticipated event brings together cheese makers and industry professionals from across the nation to celebrate the vibrant and growing market for world-class American-made cheeses. 
 
The conference is a cornerstone event for 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 engage in a variety of educational sessions and networking events designed to inspire and empower the next wave of industry leaders. 
 
"We are so excited to be in Buffalo, New York, this July for our 41st Annual Conference," said ACS Executive Director, Tara Holmes. "This year’s theme, ‘Cheese For Real,’ embodies our dedication to authenticity, quality, and the rich traditions that define American cheese making. We look forward to welcoming our members and celebrating the incredible contributions of our community to the culinary world." 
 
This year’s conference is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors, including our Marquee Sponsors: Gourmet Foods International (GFI), Lactalis USA, and Wegmans. Their commitment to excellence and support for the cheese industry plays a pivotal role in making this event a success, “We’re excited to sponsor the ACS Conference in Buffalo, New York,” said Cathy Gaffney, Vice President – Specialty Cheese, Deli & Kosher of Wegmans. “For the past 20 years, we’ve seen American cheeses grow in incredible ways. At Wegmans, we’re dedicated to supporting the cheese community and bringing people together to improve quality, food safety, and education. This conference is the perfect place for sharing ideas and making connections that help support the continued growth of American cheeses.” 
 
Highlights of the ACS 2024 Annual Conference will include: 

• Educational Sessions: Covering a wide range of topics from cheese-making techniques and trends to sustainability and marketing strategies. 
• Cheese Tastings and Pairings: Showcasing a diverse array of American-made cheeses, paired with wines, beers, and other accompaniments. 
• Networking Opportunities: Facilitating connections between cheesemakers, retailers, distributors, and enthusiasts. 
• Awards Ceremony: Celebrating the best in American cheese with the prestigious ACS Judging & Competition Awards. The Award 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 welcome the opportunity to recognize and elevate the names of exceptional American cheese makers. By acknowledging their hard work and artistry, we can help expand their reach beyond their local area, enabling their businesses to flourish and giving them a chance to create something that can be passed down to the next generation of dairy farmers and cheese makers. These awards and acknowledgments are not just symbols of success, but also serve as a foundation for growth and a testament to the shared commitment in North and South America towards sustainable farming, positive animal welfare, 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. Attendees 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 craft, 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 

Press passes are available to qualified individuals upon request. Contact Endsley Eggert at endsley.eggert@civicamanagement.com.