IFMA The Food Away from Home Association: Market Research Report

Background

Overview

IFMA The Food Away from Home Association, formerly known as the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association, is a trade association established in 1952. The organization serves as a pivotal hub for the $1.5 trillion food-away-from-home (FAFH) industry, encompassing manufacturers, distributors, operators, and service providers. Its mission is to empower, nurture, and connect the diverse stakeholders within the FAFH ecosystem, fostering collaboration and innovation to meet consumer needs.

Mission and Vision

• Mission: To be the agent of change leading a dynamic, transparent, and engaged Food-Away-From-Home community that will help grow members' businesses.

• Vision: To champion an inclusive food-away-from-home ecosystem that collaborates to build innovative solutions that advance the industry.

Industry Significance

The FAFH sector includes a wide array of establishments such as restaurants, fast food outlets, cafes, bars, schools, hospitals, and other institutions. In 2023, consumer spending on FAFH reached $1.5 trillion, accounting for 58.5% of total U.S. food expenditures—a historic high that highlights Americans' increasing preference for dining out due to lifestyle changes and convenience factors.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

IFMA aims to unite the entire FAFH ecosystem to address critical industry challenges, promote best practices, and drive innovation. By expanding its membership to include operators, supply chain partners, and service providers, the association seeks to enhance collaboration and create a more integrated industry.

Areas of Specialization

• Membership Expansion: Broadening membership to encompass all segments of the FAFH industry.

• Industry Collaboration: Facilitating partnerships among manufacturers, operators, distributors, and service providers.

• Educational Initiatives: Offering webinars, conferences, and resources to keep members informed about industry trends and best practices.

Key Technologies Utilized

The association leverages data analytics and industry insights to provide members with valuable information on market trends, consumer behavior, and operational efficiencies. Partnerships with organizations like Datassential enhance the association's ability to deliver comprehensive sales intelligence and market forecasts.

Primary Markets Targeted

IFMA focuses on the entire FAFH industry, including:

• Operators: Restaurants, cafeterias, schools, hospitals, and other foodservice establishments.

• Manufacturers: Companies producing food products, equipment, and supplies.

• Distributors: Entities responsible for delivering products to operators.

• Service Providers: Organizations offering services such as technology solutions, consulting, and logistics.

Financials and Funding

As a non-profit trade association, IFMA's funding primarily comes from membership dues, event revenues, and partnerships. Specific financial details, including total funds raised and recent funding rounds, are not publicly disclosed. The capital is utilized to support member services, educational programs, industry research, and events that foster collaboration and innovation within the FAFH sector.

Pipeline Development

While IFMA does not develop products or services in the traditional sense, it plays a crucial role in facilitating industry-wide initiatives and collaborations. Recent efforts include:

• FSMA 204 Compliance: Partnering with Starfish to accelerate traceability and compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Rule 204, providing members with tools to meet regulatory requirements.

• Industry Forecasts: Releasing annual forecasts, such as the 2026 projection of a 1.1% inflation-adjusted increase in supplier purchases, to inform members about market trends and assist in strategic planning.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

IFMA utilizes proprietary platforms like IFMA Scope®, an interactive portal that offers real-time segment and market demographic information, aiding members in business planning and decision-making.

Significant Scientific Methods

The association employs data analytics and market research methodologies to provide insights into consumer behavior, market dynamics, and operational efficiencies. Collaborations with research firms like Datassential enhance the depth and accuracy of these insights.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

• Phil Kafarakis: President & CEO. With over 30 years in the food industry, Kafarakis has held leadership roles in both manufacturing and industry advocacy, focusing on driving innovation and collaboration within the FAFH sector.

• Ben Wexler: 2024 Board Chair. As President of Custom Culinary, Wexler brings extensive experience in foodservice manufacturing and has been instrumental in expanding IFMA's membership and industry initiatives.

Recent Leadership Changes

In February 2025, IFMA appointed Peter Romeo as Managing Editor. With 46 years of journalism experience, Romeo leads the association's editorial strategy, delivering key insights and industry news to the food-away-from-home community.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The FAFH industry is characterized by its vast size and diversity, encompassing a wide range of establishments and services. Economic uncertainties, such as inflation and supply chain disruptions, impact consumer spending and operational costs. However, the sector demonstrates resilience, with projections indicating moderate growth despite challenges.

Competitor Analysis

IFMA operates in a collaborative environment rather than a competitive one, aiming to unite various stakeholders within the FAFH ecosystem. Its role is to facilitate partnerships and provide resources that benefit all members, rather than competing with other organizations.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

IFMA has established several key partnerships to enhance member value and industry impact:

• Starfish: Partnered to accelerate traceability and FSMA 204 compliance, offering members tools to meet regulatory requirements.

• Datassential: Selected as a preferred partner for food-away-from-home sales intelligence, providing members with access to industry insights and market forecasts.

• Bar & Restaurant Expo: Debuted the IFMA Pavilion at the 2025 Bar & Restaurant Expo, connecting industry leaders and showcasing innovations in the FAFH sector.

Operational Insights

IFMA's strategic focus on inclusivity and collaboration positions it uniquely within the FAFH industry. By uniting manufacturers, operators, distributors, and service providers, the association fosters a comprehensive approach to addressing industry challenges and driving innovation. This holistic perspective enables IFMA to offer resources and initiatives that cater to the diverse needs of its members, enhancing their competitiveness and operational efficiency.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, IFMA aims to:

• Expand Membership: Continue to grow its diverse membership base to include all segments of the FAFH industry.

• Enhance Collaboration: Facilitate deeper partnerships among industry stakeholders to address challenges and seize opportunities.

• Drive Innovation: Lead initiatives that promote technological advancements and best practices within the FAFH sector.

• Support Compliance: Provide resources and guidance to help members navigate regulatory requirements and industry standards.

Contact Information

• Website: foodaway.org

• Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

• Headquarters: Two Prudential Plaza, 180 N. Stetson Ave., Suite #2250, Chicago, IL 60601