As the dairy industry continues to innovate and evolve, the American Dairy Products Institute (ADPI) and the American Butter Institute (ABI) are preparing to address a number of industry challenges at the 2025 ADPI/ABI Annual Conference. Taking place from April 27 to 29 at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, the conference will give industry leaders, experts and stakeholders a unique opportunity to connect, learn and shape the future of dairy.
“The ADPI/ABI Annual Conference is known for being ‘Where the Dairy Industry Does Business,’” said Tara Anderson, vice president of marketing, ADPI. “Companies from around the world send employees that represent manufacturers, marketers, suppliers, distributors and brokers of dairy ingredients and products.”
Drawing power
For professionals in the dairy industry, the ADPI/ABI Annual Conference brings together more than 1,000 key players in the dairy industry — manufacturers, suppliers, regulatory bodies and academics — to discuss the latest trends, regulatory updates and emerging technologies.
The conference offers a wealth of opportunities for networking, collaboration and knowledge sharing, as well.
“As a long-standing organization with its roots in convening those in sales, marketing and technical services, the annual conference is a great opportunity for those in the dairy ingredients industry to spend a few days networking, meeting, planning and also gaining insights into relevant and timely topics facing our member companies today,” Anderson said.
Attendees will hear from a broad range of experts across the dairy supply chain, gaining insights into everything from the economic outlook for the dairy sector, to sustainability practices.
Highlights
One of the main draws of the ADPI/ABI Annual Conference is its lineup of speakers and discussion topics. The conference offers tracks with commercial-focused and technical-focused sessions, with industry veterans and thought leaders taking the stage to address a diverse array of issues affecting the dairy industry.
Session topics include the world market outlook, economic impacts on the FMMO, cybersecurity and sustainability, as well as deep dives into specific ingredients such as permeate and lactose, proteins, and what’s happening in the global regulatory space.
New in 2025, ADPI is offering pre-conference training through the DI360: Mini-Course. This will be a live, in-person sampling of the virtual Dairy Ingredients 360 Training Course, featuring three specially selected sessions on dairy ingredient standards, regulations, specifications, labeling, food applications, and the supply, demand and marketing of milk and whey ingredients.
Registration for the DI360 training is available as a stand-alone or an add-on to conference registration.
“It’s a great opportunity for anyone new to dairy to attend, as it will lead into our New to ADPI Reception before the conference officially kicks off Sunday evening,” Anderson said.
ADPI will also recognize recipients of its annual awards – the Award of Merit, and the Breakthrough in Dairy Ingredients Innovation – and announce its 2025 scholarship recipients during the conference.
Networking opportunities
The ADPI/ABI Annual Conference is not just about learning — it’s also about connecting. With hundreds of industry professionals in attendance, there are ample opportunities for networking and business development. Attendees can take advantage of various networking sessions, one-on-one meetings, and social events to foster new partnerships and strengthen existing relationships.
As the dairy industry continues to adapt to new consumer demands, sustainability initiatives and technological advances, the 2025 ADPI/ABI Annual Conference was developed to be an essential event for professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve. The conference aims to provide the tools, knowledge and connections needed to thrive in the rapidly changing landscape.
“We hope attendees will convene in Chicago to continue the tradition of making business happen at the annual conference,” Anderson said. “There will be plenty of time for networking and socializing, as well as the opportunity to hop over to the Magnificent Mile or Lake Michigan to enjoy all that Chicago has to offer.”
More details are available online at ADPI’s website.
