Coffee Association of Canada Conference Announces Arlene Dickinson as Keynote

November Conference Expected to Sell Out Again

Toronto, ON – June 18, 2024 – The Coffee Association of Canada (CAC), a pivotal force in the nation’s thriving coffee industry, is thrilled to announce its 2024 Conference – themed “Coffee Unites” – being held on Thursday, November 14th at Angus Glen. The annual event, which sold out in 2022 and 2023, has been moved to a larger venue and is featuring Canadian business icon, Arlene Dickinson, as the keynote speaker.

Keynote Speaker: Arlene Dickinson

“Arlene is not just a visionary entrepreneur; she’s an iconic Canadian business leader,” said Robert Carter, President, Coffee Association of Canada. “Many of us know Arlene from her role as a dragon on CBC’s Dragons’ Den, however as the Founder and General Partner of District Ventures Capital, she’s deeply immersed in the food & beverage and health & wellness sectors, making her insights invaluable to our Conference.”

“Coffee brings people together over shared moments,” said Arlene. “It is a beloved beverage that serves as a powerful catalyst in uniting people worldwide. I look forward to delving into the power of relationships and how strong connections can empower us all.”

Unique Fireside Chat with Arlene and Tony Chapman

Hosting for the third year in a row is media personality, Tony Chapman. Tony and Arlene were both recently inducted into the Small Business Champion Hall of Fame. These two icons will enjoy a “fireside chat” at the end of Arlene’s presentation; a unique moment that you won’t experience elsewhere.

Exhibitor Marketplace and Speakers

The Conference is an all-day event that includes an exhibitor marketplace, panels, presentations and of course, coffee. This year’s agenda includes Sylvain Charlebois (The Food Professor); Benjamin Tal (Managing Director and Deputy Chief Economist, CIBC Capital Markets); a Data & Insights Panel with Circana and Dig Insights; CAC’s Charity of the Year (2024) Grounds for Health, and more.

2024 Conference Sponsors include Title Sponsor, Dairy Farmers of Canada; Signature & Coffee Sponsor, Keurig Dr Pepper Canada; and Speaker Sponsors – JM Smucker, Monin Canada and Swiss Water.

Celebrating the Canadian Coffee Industry with CAC Awards

For the second year, the CAC will also be recognizing winners in their Coffee Awards program. Inaugural winners in 2023 were: Muna Mohammed, Eight50 Coffee (Innovative Achievement); Balzac’s (Small Chain-Big Impact) and Michael Higgins and Paul Higgins Jr., Mother Parkers Tea & Coffee (Lifetime Achievement). Nominations for the 2024 Awards will be opening in September.

Get Your Tickets before they Sell Out!

Conference details, tickets and sponsorship information can be found on the CAC website: https://coffeeassoc.com/annual-conference/

About the Coffee Association of Canada:

The Coffee Association of Canada is a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement and enjoyment of coffee in Canada. For over 20 years, the CAC has been a champion for its diverse membership, including roasters, retailers, importers, suppliers, and coffee aficionados. Our vision is to be the industry expert and advocate for the Canadian coffee community, ensuring a prosperous future for the coffee industry. Follow the CAC on LinkedIn and X (Twitter).

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