Adelaide Oval, with its iconic views and buzzing energy, played host to the highly anticipated Foodland Summit and Gala 2024 this November. Captured through the lens of Adelaide photographers Frankie, Lewis and Dylan, the event brought together industry leaders, retailers, suppliers, and collaborators in a celebration of innovation, community, and excellence in South Australian retail.

As the sun rose over the Oval, attendees began to arrive, greeted by the vibrant hum of conversations and the enticing aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The Premiership Suite buzzed with excitement as guests registered for the day ahead, ready to immerse themselves in a thoughtfully curated program blending insights, celebrations, and inspiration.

The day began with the Annual General Meeting, where key stakeholders came together to reflect on the year’s successes and challenges. Over steaming cups of coffee and an indulgent morning tea spread, conversations filled the room with a palpable sense of anticipation for the sessions to come.

The business sessions, held in the William Magarey Room, kicked off with a sizzle reel capturing the essence of Foodland’s year—community spirit, exceptional products, and a focus on local partnerships. Tom Rehn, the charismatic MC, set the tone for the day with his warm welcome and heartfelt Acknowledgement to Country.

Highlights of the morning included an insightful update from CEO Franklin dos Santos, who laid out Foodland’s future plans with conviction and optimism. The energy remained high as the National Retailer Council’s Joseph Romeo shared his perspective, and market experts Asher Hunter and Rosie Tapping delivered an engaging analysis of trends shaping the retail landscape.

The keynote address by Michael Simotas, Managing Director of Australian Equities Research, provided a captivating exploration of consumer behaviours and market dynamics, sparking lively discussions during the lunch break.

Post-lunch, the excitement peaked as the Foodland Supplier of the Year Awards commenced. With awards honouring categories from Fresh Food to Liquor, the ceremony highlighted the outstanding contributions of Foodland’s partners and suppliers. Each award presentation was met with cheers and applause, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defines the Foodland community. Among the winners, local and Australian suppliers stood out, embodying the community-focused ethos of the Foodland brand.

Adelaide’s own Vili’s Family Bakery proudly claimed the South Australian Supplier of the Year award, a well-deserved nod to their longstanding commitment to quality and innovation. Coopers Brewery, another South Australian icon, took home the Local Cellars Liquor award, further cementing their legacy as a staple in the region.

In sustainability, True Foods was recognised for their dedication to environmentally conscious practices, a core value of the Foodland family. The Friend of the Farm award went to Bache Bros, with Peter Mercurio’s contributions to supporting local producers lauded during a heartwarming moment.

Sprinkled throughout the day were captivating video features, such as the Hello SA segment showcasing peculiar picks and local treasures, adding a playful touch to the proceedings. Sustainability also took centre stage with Karen Jeffs, who shared actionable insights on Foodland’s commitment to a greener future.

As the day transitioned into evening, the atmosphere shifted. The gala dinner transformed the Oval into a shimmering haven of elegance, with soft lighting, sophisticated décor, and live music setting a luxurious tone. Guests arrived dressed to the nines, ready to unwind and celebrate Foodland’s incredible achievements.

The catering, a masterpiece of local flavours, was the star of the evening. From sumptuous appetisers to a decadent dessert display, each dish showcased the region’s finest produce, reinforcing Foodland’s commitment to supporting local. Toasts were raised, and laughter echoed through the night as attendees celebrated the milestones and camaraderie forged throughout the year.

The Foodland Summit and Gala 2024 wasn’t just an event—it was a testament to the power of community, innovation, and shared vision. From insightful presentations to heartfelt celebrations, it reflected Foodland’s ethos of excellence and collaboration.

As the night concluded under the sparkling Adelaide skyline, attendees left inspired, connected, and ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities of the year ahead.

If you’re planning an event and want to capture the moments that matter most, Frankie The Creative specialises in event photography that tells a story. Visit our contact page to learn how we can help you showcase your business’ next milestone!