The Specialty Food Association (SFA) has announced that President Bill Lynch will conclude his tenure at the end of March 2027, beginning a planned leadership transition for one of the food industry’s leading trade organisations.
Lynch, who has worked with the Association for more than 25 years and has served as president since 2020, informed the SFA Board of Directors that he will remain in the role through the end of his current term to support a smooth transition and ensure business continuity.
The Board has launched a national search for SFA’s next president and appointed executive search firm ForceBrands to lead the recruitment process.
The announcement comes as the Association continues to expand its influence across the specialty food sector. Founded in 1952, SFA represents more than 4,800 businesses worldwide, including food manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, supermarket buyers and service providers.
During Lynch’s presidency, the Association rebuilt its flagship Fancy Food Shows following the pandemic and introduced Winter FancyFaire as a new winter trade event. SFA also expanded its industry presence through the acquisition and integration of the Good Food Foundation, strengthening its educational programmes, events and member services.
The organisation also reported strong growth during Lynch’s leadership. Membership increased by 24%, rising from 3,912 companies to 4,868. Annual revenue grew from $20.6 million to $31.1 million, while total assets increased from $56.8 million to $86.5 million.
According to the Association, member services, educational programmes, industry partnerships, trade shows and events will continue without interruption throughout the transition period.
The leadership change is expected to attract attention across the specialty food industry because SFA’s events remain important meeting places for retailers, supermarket buyers, distributors and food producers looking to discover new products, build supplier relationships and identify emerging consumer trends.
What happens next?
Bill Lynch will continue leading the Specialty Food Association until March 2027 while the Board completes its search for a new president. The Association’s flagship trade shows, member programmes and industry partnerships are expected to continue without disruption as the leadership transition progresses. For businesses following US food trade events, the appointment of SFA’s next president will help shape the future direction of the Summer Fancy Food Show, Winter FancyFaire and other initiatives connecting specialty food producers with retailers, distributors and supermarket buyers.
