Unlocking Growth with Foodservice: PBFA Partners with NetWorld Media for Industry Events in 2025
Written by: Hannah Lopez
The Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA) is excited to announce an impactful collaboration with NetWorld Media Group, unlocking a wealth of opportunities for PBFA members to engage with the broader foodservice and franchise industries in 2025. Through this partnership, PBFA members will gain exclusive access to discounted sponsorships, prominent industry events, and enhanced visibility in key media outlets.
Upcoming Events & Opportunities for PBFA Members
This year, PBFA members have the opportunity to participate in several major industry events, gaining valuable exposure and networking opportunities:
1. Restaurant Franchising & Innovation Summit (RFIS) – March 11-13, 2025 | Myrtle Beach, SC
PBFA is partnering with the Restaurant Franchising & Innovation Summit (RFIS) to bring plant-based innovation to the forefront of the fast casual and quick-service restaurant (QSR) industries. As part of this partnership, PBFA members receive 10% off sponsorship opportunities, including exhibit spaces within the Plant Based Foods Pavilion. This pavilion will serve as a central hub for plant-based brands to connect with restaurant leaders looking to expand their menu offerings.
Additionally, members can receive 10% off advertising on NetWorld Media platforms such as FastCasual.com, boosting their reach within the industry.
A key sponsorship opportunity within the event is the 2025 Menu Trends: Can You Really Please Everybody? panel discussion. This session will explore:
- Hyperlocal and seasonal menus.
- Plant-based and flexitarian options.
- Popular global flavors.
- Health-conscious and wellness-driven dining.
- Personalized and experiential menu elements.
PBFA members can sponsor or moderate this panel, offering an unparalleled chance to establish thought leadership while networking with key industry executives.
Confirmed Panelists:
- Joel Bulger | Chief Marketing Officer | WOWorks
- Daniel Camp | Director of Culinary | Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
- Shawn Lalehzarian | Co-Founder & CEO | The Red Chickz
- Evonne Varady | Co-Founder | Clean Eatz
2. Fast Casual Executive Summit – October 2025
The Fast Casual Executive Summit is a must-attend event for foodservice leaders looking to stay ahead of industry trends. PBFA members will once again have the chance to take advantage of discounted sponsorship and speaking opportunities, helping plant-based brands position themselves at the forefront of menu innovation and sustainability.
3. Additional Industry Events & Media Partnerships
Through PBFA’s collaboration with NetWorld Media, members can leverage new advertising opportunities across digital platforms and industry-leading publications. These include features on FastCasual.com, QSRweb.com, and PizzaMarketplace.com, ensuring greater brand exposure and consumer engagement.
Why This Matters for PBFA Members
This strategic partnership provides plant-based brands with unparalleled access to restaurant executives, culinary leaders, and franchise operators actively seeking innovative menu solutions. Whether through exhibiting at events, moderating discussions, or utilizing NetWorld Media’s expansive digital reach, PBFA members can expand their influence within the foodservice industry like never before.
Don’t miss out on these unique opportunities to drive brand growth and industry impact. Interested in sponsorships or speaking engagements? Contact Hannah Lopez, Head of Marketplace Development at hannah@plantbasedfoods.org for more information.