March 29-31, 2026 | Dallas, TX
Hyatt Regency Dallas

SCHEDULE

Dive into the SNX schedule—choose your day to explore.

Sunday, March 29
Monday, March 30
Tuesday, March 31

Sunday, March 29, 2026

  • 8:30 - 9:30am
  • Pryor Crockett

Executive Committee Meeting (by invitation only)

  • 10:00am - 12:00pm
  • Bryan Beeman B

Board of Directors Meeting (by invitation only)

  • 12:00 - 8:00pm
  • Marsalis Hall

Registration Open

  • 12:00 - 5:00pm
  • Marsalis Hall

Experience Zone: Supplier Setup

  • 1:00 - 4:00pm
  • Bus Pickup at 12:30 at Trinity Crossing

Top Golf Networking Event

  • 5:00 - 6:00pm
  • Reunion Ballroom Foyer

Welcome Reception

  • 6:00 - 7:00pm
  • Reunion Ballroom EFGH

Keynote: Snack Category Overview

Join us for a highly informative overview of the current state of the snack category with longtime SNAC International collaborator, Sally Lyons Wyatt of Circana. A great complement to all the other offerings of SNX, Sally’s insights are a can’t-miss feature of this important industry gathering.

Sally Lyons Wyatt
Global Executive Vice President and Chief Advisor, Consumer Goods & Foodservice Insights, Circana

Sally Lyons Wyatt is the leading global consumer packaged goods and foodservice industry advisor. She is a go-to expert and frequent keynote speaker on future-forward consumer and retail insights, industry trends, and a multitude of topics related to F&B, Nonfood, sustainability, emerging categories, and more. Lyons Wyatt also leads a global team of industry experts. She is frequently quoted about the latest trends and insights in national business media outlets such as The Today Show, The Wall Street Journal, CNBC, Financial Times, and leading CPG trade media publications.

In her prior role as EVP and practice leader for Circana’s Global CPG division, Lyons Wyatt drove integrated client initiatives and managed the company’s center store and produce account teams. She has more than 30 years of industry expertise in partnering with Fortune 500 clients. She leverages Circana data to optimize a wide range of strategies with clients – from consumer and media to merchandising and supply strategies. Lyons Wyatt is a two-time “Top Women in Grocery” recipient and a proud executive sponsor of Circana’s Early Career Professionals Business Resource Group.

Learn More About Sally

SNX Opening Party Reception and Dinner

Monday, March 30, 2026

  • 7:30 - 8:15am
  • Pegasus Ballroom

Business Member Meeting & Breakfast (by invitation only)

  • 7:30 - 8:30am
  • Experience Zone, Marsalis Hall

Breakfast Buffet

  • 7:30am - 6:00pm
  • Marsalis Hall

Registration Open

  • 8:30 - 9:15am
  • Pegasus Ballroom
Breakout Education Session
What’s Changing Legally—and What It Means for Snack Companies

Labeling and packaging requirements are evolving quickly, and food companies are facing not only shifting federal guidance but also a rise in state-level litigation. Martin Hahn will provide a clear view of what’s changing, what to watch next, and how to stay compliant without slowing growth.

Martin Hahn 
Partner, Hogan Lovells and Legal Counsel to SNAC International

Using his background in food technology and his comprehensive understanding of the laws governing the food industry, Martin Hahn helps clients navigate through the countless regulatory and business issues impacting the industry from farm to table.

He recognizes the demands clients face and finds innovative and creative solutions, particularly when responding to observations raised by regulators during inspections. Whether the issue involves obtaining the authorization of a new food or dietary ingredient, complying with manufacturing requirements, labeling or advertising, product recalls, or enforcement, Martin serves as an effective advisor and advocate.

Martin has handled almost every issue impacting the food industry. He has a comprehensive understanding of the laws affecting the labeling and advertising of foods, dietary supplements, infant formulas, medical foods, and foods for special dietary use. He helps anticipate new trends and develops the data needed to distinguish a client’s products from others on the market. Martin uses his understanding of science and technology in the food industry to provide assistance in obtaining regulatory authorizations to market new food ingredients, food packaging materials, and dietary ingredients. He assists in responding to proposed regulations and draft guidance to keep clients informed on the latest trends in class action law suits to help anticipate new regulatory initiatives.

Martin grew up on a farm and worked in food processing plants before going to law school. His hands-on experience in the field and degree in food technology allow him to better understand the challenges his clients face in complying with the laws impacting food manufacturing. 

Learn More About Martin
  • 8:30 - 9:15am
  • Reunion EFGH (GS Ballroom)
Breakout Education Session
Midterm Elections: What’s at Stake for the Snack Industry

Join Kelly Knowles for an insider’s look at the upcoming midterm elections and their potential impact on the snack industry. This session will examine key House and Senate races, shifting political dynamics, and what industry leaders need to understand to navigate policy priorities in a changing Washington landscape.

Kelly Knowles 
Executive Vice President, SNAC International

With a passion for politics and a keen understanding of how business and government intersect, Kelly Knowles is a recognized expert on state and federal advocacy, political engagement programs, organizational development and industry relations.

As the Executive Vice President of SNAC International, Kelly is committed to connecting the snack industry to create growth and opportunity.  She oversees the group’s work across its three pillars: education, advocacy, and networking.  SNAC International is the leading international trade association for the snack industry representing over 400 companies worldwide.   

Kelly has led successful legislative efforts on key business issues including Prop 65, recycling reform, and independent contractor reclassification, and played a pivotal role in passing anti-theft legislation in Texas for the food industry.  She also advises corporate and trade association clients on PAC strategy, fundraising, and communications, and has worked closely with business leaders to develop emerging talent.

Kelly holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of North Carolina, a Graduate Certificate in PACs and Political Management, and a Master’s in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University. She lives in Austin, Texas, with her husband and daughter.

Learn More About Kelly
  • 9:30 - 10:15am
  • Pegasus Ballroom
Breakout Education Session
Sustainability & Packaging Reform: What’s at Stake at the Federal and State Levels

Get up to speed on the latest developments in packaging reform, including key federal and state legislation, regulatory trends, and the growing role of programs like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Mark Bescher will break down what’s changing, what’s coming next, and how these shifts could impact your business operations, costs, and compliance strategies.

Mark Bescher 
Legacy Public Policy and Consultant to SNAC International

Mark Bescher is the founder of Legacy Public Policy, a packaging consultancy. Most recently, Mark was the head of US Government Affairs at Mondelez International, an American multinational confectionery, food, and beverage company. In that role he developed and advocated for policy positions with local, state, and federal policymakers in coordination with critical industry associations and partners. 

Mark served on the Board of Directors of AMERIPEN, the EPR Leadership Forum, and the Circular Action Alliance (CAA), the nation’s first and only Producer Responsibility Organization for paper and packaging. CAA manages the EPR systems in California, Colorado, and Oregon. Within CAA, Mark sat on the Circular Action Alliance California Board.

Prior to joining Mondelez, Mark was Government Relations Manager for Unilever and before that served as the Manager of Government Relations for the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition. He began his government relations career in regulatory affairs at Bombardier and in advocacy at the National Association of Manufacturers.

Mark earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Notre Dame and Masters of Science in Public Policy from the University of Oxford. He resides in Washington, DC with his husband, Jake and Frenchie, Rocky. 

Learn More About Mark
  • 9:30 - 10:15am
  • Reunion EFGH (GS Ballroom)
Breakout Education Session
MAHA: Consumer Perception, Ingredients, and Brand Risk

The MAHA movement is reshaping how snack products are viewed by consumers, retailers, and policymakers. Maggie Gentile will explore the current MAHA landscape, how it is influencing ingredient scrutiny and brand reputation, and what it could mean for legislative and regulatory activity in 2026 and beyond.

Maggie Gentile 
Partner, Food Directions

Maggie Gentile is a Partner at Food Directions LLC, where she has been advancing food and nutrition policy since 2011. In her role, she leads client strategy, manages day-to-day priorities, and helps shape industry engagement across a broad spectrum of regulatory, legislative, and communications issues. Gentile is a recognized expert in public affairs and coalition building, with prior experience at Edelman, GolinHarris, and the National Restaurant Association. At the Association, she led initiatives under the Food and Healthy Living program, advising on emerging nutrition policy and representing the industry’s voice to policymakers and stakeholders. A registered dietitian, Gentile holds a master’s degree from Loyola University Chicago and a bachelor’s degree in Dietetics from Miami University. She lives on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., with her husband and three daughters.

Learn More About Maggie
  • 10:45am - 2:45pm
  • Marsalis Hall

Experience Zone Open featuring the Flavor Showdown, Packaging Sustainability Showcase, and SNAC Bites

  • 11:15am - 1:15pm
  • Experience Zone, Marsalis Hall

Lunch Buffet

  • 11:30am - 12:30pm
  • Experience Zone SNAC Bites Stage

Snack Industry Forum: Ask the Experts with SNAC International consultants Martin Hahn, Maggie Gentile, and Mark Bescher

Join industry experts at the Experience Zone SNAC Bites stage for an interactive Ask the Expert session where attendees can bring their most pressing questions about the snack industry. From GLP-1s and MAHA to elections, packaging policy, and emerging regulatory issues, this open forum offers timely insights and candid discussion on the topics shaping the industry.

  • 1:30 - 2:00pm
  • Experience Zone SNAC Bites Stage

SNAC Bites Session

Leveraging AI to Empower the Frontline: Turning Operational Knowledge into Action

Manufacturers generate massive amounts of operational data every day, yet many organizations still struggle to transform that information into actionable insights for the people who need it most—the frontline workforce. As AI continues to evolve, new approaches are emerging that focus not on replacing operators, but on empowering them with better context, faster insights, and smarter decision support. 

This session will explore how manufacturers can leverage AI to capture and activate the collective knowledge of their operations—from line performance data and run history to standard operating procedures and operator observations. By connecting these data sources, organizations can surface predictive insights, identify recurring production challenges, and provide contextual guidance that helps teams solve problems faster and prevent issues before they occur. 

Attendees will gain a practical understanding of how AI can support frontline decision-making, strengthen collaboration across production teams, and unlock productivity improvements on the factory floor. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, this session will provide manufacturers with a clear framework for applying AI in ways that enhance—not replace—the expertise of their workforce.

Evan Wendell
Mid-Market Sales Director / AI Expert, Redzone

Learn More About Redzone
1. Redzone_QAD_Logo_full color_RGB (15)
  • 3:00 - 6:00pm

Scheduled Supplier Suite Meetings

  • 3:00 - 6:00pm
  • Bogel's Atrium

SNAC Café Open

  • 5:00 - 6:00pm
  • Bogel's Atrium

SNAC Café Happy Hour

Tuesday, March 31, 2026

  • 7:30 - 8:30am
  • Experience Zone, Marsalis Hall

Breakfast Buffet

  • 7:30am - 3:00pm
  • Marsalis Hall

Registration Open

  • 8:00 - 11:00am

Scheduled Supplier Suite Meetings

  • 8:00 - 11:00am
  • Bogel's Atrium

SNAC Café Open

  • 11:00am - 1:00pm
  • Marsalis Hall

Experience Zone Open featuring the Flavor Showdown, Packaging Sustainability Showcase, and SNAC Bites

  • 11:15 - 11:45am
  • Experience Zone SNAC Bites Stage

SNAC Bites Session

Shaping the Future of Baked Snacks: Innovative Products with Low Pressure Extrusion

Innovation in shapes, textures, and filled snack products is redefining what’s possible in baked snacks. At the same time, manufacturers must deliver these products with greater efficiency, consistency, and flexibility than ever before. This session, presented by Reading Bakery Systems, explores how the latest advances in Low-Pressure Extrusion (LPE) technology enables snack producers to meet these demands, supporting both product innovation and reliable, flexible production at scale. Attendees will gain a practical look at how modern LPE equipment supports a wide range of doughs, fillings, shapes, and flavors, allowing rapid changeovers to meet evolving market demands.

The presentation will highlight how co-extrusion and forming capabilities unlock new product possibilities while delivering consistent piece weights and minimizing product waste. Real-world production examples will illustrate how versatile LPE platforms can improve yield, simplify operations, and support both sustainability and cost-reduction objectives.

Join us to discover how advanced LPE technology can help manufacturers create more innovative products while improving quality, efficiency, and profitability. Leave inspired to shape the next generation of baked snacks that stand out on every shelf.

Nico Roesler
North American Pretzel & Snack Equipment Sales Manager, Reading Bakery Systems

Learn More About Reading Bakery Systems
Reading Bakery System Logo SNAXPO 2013 - Copy
  • 11:30am - 1:00pm
  • Marsalis Hall

Lunch Buffet 

  • 12:15 - 12:45pm
  • Experience Zone SNAC Bites Stage

SNAC Bites Session

How “Practical AI” Is Changing the Way F&B Operations Run

Food and beverage companies manage thousands of interconnected decisions every day across manufacturing, distribution, and operations. Yet many organizations still rely on plans, reports, and manual coordination, which leads to slow response to change and constant firefighting.

A new buzzword is emerging in business operations: agentic systems. In practice, that means using AI for more than analysis or forecasting, and leveraging technologies that can make, coordinate, and adapt decisions across functions in real time.

This session is designed to create a practical framework for this often used term, and explain what agentic AI actually means in an operations context. Attendees will learn how these systems work, how decision making can be decomposed into specialized agents, how those agents coordinate across functions, and how this improves alignment between planning and execution.

The session will include a few practical examples from global food and beverage manufacturers, as well as a blueprint on how your teams can start to leverage these technologies.

Keith Moore
CEO, AutoScheduler

Learn More About AutoScheduler
  • 1:00 - 3:00pm

Scheduled Supplier Suite Meetings

  • 1:00 - 3:00pm
  • Bogel's Atrium

SNAC Café Open

  • 3:00 - 3:30pm
  • Moreno AB

Associate Member Meeting (by invitation only)

  • 3:30 - 4:30pm
  • Reunion Ballroom EFGH

Keynote: AI and the Octopus Organization: How to Accelerate AI Use and Organizational Speed

How should AI impact the way managers manage? How should it change the way organizations function? From pushing decision-making to customer-facing staff, to enabling new webs of collaboration, AI is starting to make possible a radical re-think of organizations. Industry leaders at organizations such as P&G and HelloFresh are wasting no time as they turn these visions into reality. Noted innovation authority Steve Wunker has been at the frontlines of AI for a dozen years. He has seen it already transform how business is done. Now, he’s at the forefront of determining how AI changes the nature of management. Drawing from Steve’s bestselling book AI and the Octopus Organization, this speech provides a fascinating and provocative look at how AI is transforming organizations, and it gives concrete on advice on what managers must do now to accelerate their progress. Are you ready for the AI revolution?

Steve Wunker
Managing Director, New Markets Advisors 

Steve has founded four pioneering companies and two non-profits. He also led the team that created one of the world’s first smartphones. He’s competed with Microsoft, McKinsey, and an organized crime family. As the long-time Managing Director of New Markets Advisors, he’s counselled hundreds of companies on innovation opportunities. He’s written over 100 articles for Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and others. He’s also authored five best-selling books, including his latest, AI and the Octopus Organization.

Learn More About Steve
  • 4:30 - 5:30pm
  • Reunion Ballroom EFGH

Closing Keynote: Fireside Chat with Candace Nelson

SNX 2026 will conclude with a closing keynote featuring Candace Nelson, founder of Sprinkles, the world’s first cupcake bakery and a pioneer in modern food entrepreneurship. Nelson’s keynote will take the form of a fireside chat with SNAC International’s incoming CEO, offering an inside look at her entrepreneurial journey, lessons learned as a founder and brand builder, and insights on leadership, innovation, and resilience in a competitive marketplace.

Candace Nelson
Serial Entrepreneur, the Founder of Sprinkles and Pizzana, Guest Shark on Shark Tank and bestselling author

Candace Nelson is a serial entrepreneur, the Founder of Sprinkles and Pizzana, Guest Shark on Shark Tank and a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. An expert in turning a passion into a profitable business, Candace revolutionized the baking industry when she left a career in finance to start Sprinkles, the world’s first cupcake bakery and Cupcake ATM. Sprinkles has since grown into one of the most successful cupcake brands ever. 

Nelson followed with the launch of Pizzana, a growing chain of Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded pizzerias leading the third wave of pizza in the US. She continues to expand her portfolio: cofounding the children’s sensory learning centers Play 2 Progress and launching CN2 Ventures with her husband, Charles Nelson, to invest in early-stage consumer companies.

Candace is the author of The Wall Street Journal bestseller Sweet Success: A Simple Recipe to Turn your Passion into Profit and The New York Times bestselling The Sprinkles Baking Book. A highly sought-after speaker, Candace shares her story of turning passion into profit, the keys to leading and building a breakthrough brand, finding purpose to create a great company culture and cultivating a community of brand loyalists with audiences around the world.

She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two sons.

Learn More About Candace

Closing Party