July 18, 2023

US pork industry players gather in Wisconsin, US, for 27th National Pork Industry Conference

US pork producers and allied industries across the value chain recently gathered at the Kalahari Resort in the Wisconsin Dells, southern Wisconsin, the United States, to attend the 27th annual National Pork Industry Conference (NPIC).

The theme of the conference was "Sustainability = Profitability and Viability." Attendees participated in various educational seminars covering animal welfare, pork production, industry financial health and policy topics such as California Proposition 12 implementation.

Building on that, National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) president Scott Hays moderated a panel with NPPC subject matter experts to discuss the pressing policy issues of the US pork industry and the proactive efforts the association is taking to address them.

Panelists included Kelly Cushman, vice president of domestic policy; Michael Formica, chief legal strategist; Cody McKinley, vice president of state and national relations, and Jeff Pigott, vice president of industry relations. The panelists covered a range of topics including what's next with California Proposition 12, state ballot initiatives and the work with food service and retail leaders, and provided a behind the scenes view of the important work that NPPC staff does to advance the interests of pork producers.

Additionally, NPPC chief executive officer Bryan Humphreys joined National Pork Board CEO Bill Even for a fireside chat. The CEOs discussed the distinct roles of the two organisations, how they work together to sustain pig farming and expand markets for US pork exports.

Humpherys highlighted the work NPPC does that focuses on representing producers before state, federal and international officials responsible for legislation and regulations concerning farming, production and expanding trade. Even discussed the National Pork Board's work with Pork Checkoff-funded research, promotion and consumer information projects.

Building on the fireside chat, both CEOs were joined on stage by Jack Hubbard, a co-owner of Berman & Company, to discuss industry efforts to address challenges from industry opponents targeting US pork producers and the opportunities for each to work together and coordinate their efforts to advance the industries priorities.

- Swineweb