The ACG LA Business Conference is the nation’s premiere gathering for the business, corporate and finance community.  Celebrating its 20th Anniversary, the ACG Los Angeles chapter hosted its conference on September 12-13, 2017 at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills.  This year’s conference drew more than 1,200 attendees and offered multiple networking and business development opportunities along with content rich breakout sessions.

Each year, the ACG LA Conference draws some of the nation’s most respected leaders in business, politics and world events. This year’s impressive roster of keynote speakers included Former President of the United States, Barack H. Obama. The former presidents’ speech encouraged the audience to stay away from the “cynicism” fed through Twitter and television, noting how much social progress has been made in a relatively short period of time. The former president’s speech, aside from his remarks hinting at the perceived failures of the current administration and Congress, were largely optimistic.  

Kevin Demoff, COO of the Los Angeles Rams along with J.B. Long, the play-by-play voice of the Rams and CBS-2 LA spoke about sports and business entertainment and the future of the Ram in Los Angeles.  The conference also hosted a women’s luncheon with keynote speaker Rosie O’Neill, CEO of the gourmet candy company Sugarfina.  Ms. O’Neill spoke about her passion for quality sweets and taking Sugarfina to the next level of investment and international business.   

In addition to the various sessions, keynotes and networking opportunities, the ACG LA Conference drew a record number of Capital Connection exhibitors and Deal Source participants who participated in our signature one-on-one pre-scheduled meetings between Investment Banks and PEGs to discuss deal opportunities. 

For over 40 years, ACG LA has been a hub for the city’s business community. A place for executives of all types to learn new practices, challenge conventional thinking and broaden and strengthen their relationships throughout the region. ACG LA’s members represent companies and industries that are as varied as the neighborhoods of Los Angeles – corporate executives, commercial and investment bankers, private equity investors as well as legal, accounting and finance professionals, many of whom specialize in mergers and acquisitions or corporate development. The diversity of professions and industries is one of ACG LA’s greatest strengths, along with the Chapter’s commitment to hosting events that bring members together, as well as help them share information and stay apprised of the business environment. ACG LA is more than a networking group—it’s an organization of individuals pursuing the shared goal of corporate growth.

Featured keynote speaker, Jordan Berg, brand strategist and co-author of the book Friction: Passion Brands in the Age of Disruption, opened the conference with an insightful look at marketing strategy and creating a passion brand. Friction provides a system for embracing transparency, engaging audiences and unleashing unprecedented growth through fundamental change in strategy.

The keynote was followed by three 45 minute breakout sessions.  Attendees chose from the first session titled “Financing and Growth through Mergers and Acquisitions”, which was moderated by Stephanie McElroy of Comerica Bank and a discussion led by Diane Cabo of Critical Point, Kisen Nathu of Encore Consumer Capital and Bill Murdock of Comerica Bank.  They discussed opportunities, creative growth strategies and fiscal challenges within the market.  The concurrent session was titled “Technology’s Role in Food Safety, Recalls and Environmental Health” and was moderated by Christian Winzeler of RSM with discussions led by Todd Bagget of Redline Solutions, George Salmas of The Food Lawyers and Freddie Agyin of LA County Department of Public Health.  They discussed the current trends of technology in and around food safety, consumer demands for transparency and tips on streamlining the demands of food safety compliance.    

The final breakout session focused on “Ethnic Markets and Consumer Trends”.  This session was moderated by Mina Trujillo of Chraft PR with discussions led by Alan Cutler of Vita-Pakt Citrus, Chris Iglesias of Cacique, Edward Medina of Ramona’s Mexican Food Products, and Mauricio Monroy of the US-Mexico Chamber of Commerce.  The discussion provided insights from a diverse panel of speakers about trending flavors and demands from the consumers, innovation and US-Mexico trade regulations under the Trump Administration.   

Attendees then reconvened to attend the networking lunch sponsored by RSM and Comerica Bank.

The Food Insights Summit and was a huge success and brought together some of Los Angeles’ finest C-Suite professionals who are currently making great strides in the food and beverage sector.

We thank our sponsors RSM and Comerica Bank and supporting sponsor US-Mexico Chamber of Commerce along with our speakers, supporters, and attendees.

To learn more about RSM’s Food and Beverage Industry Insights click and view below:

Food Safety Compliance

Technology and KPIs

What you need to know about FSMA

About Chraft PR.  Chraft PR is a public relations, marketing, and conference production agency passionate about building brands, engaging and connecting people.  Tapping into its highly entrepreneurial instincts, strategic communications and marketing expertise, Chraft PR’s goal is to help businesses build an unforgettable brand, create a compelling experience, build a brilliant strategy and guide you through a dynamic journey. Chraft PR is here to help create brand influence that go from good to extraordinary.

Chraft PR is located at 515 S. Flower, 36^th Floor in Downtown Los Angeles and can be reached at 213.236.3613.

2015 ACG LA Business Conference

The ACG LA Business Conference is the nation’s premiere gathering for the business, corporate and finance community.  Celebrating its 18th year, ACG LA hosted its Conference on October 6th and 7th at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills.  This year’s Conference drew more than 1,100 attendees in a vibrant and dynamic setting with multiple networking and business development opportunities along with content rich breakout sessions presented by our Gold sponsors.  Each year, the ACG LA Conference draws some of the nation’s most respected leaders in business, politics and world events.  This year’s impressive roster of keynote speakers included Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric in conversation with Martyn Curragh of PwC in an intimate fireside chat.  The discussion centered on shareholder value, leading with a winning mentality and what it takes to grow and align companies with the right people.  Additional keynote speakers included Peter Diamandis, Founder and Chairman of XPrize, who gave a thought provoking presentation on exponential ideas and leading with an attitude of abundance.  On the Private Equity side, legendary businessman Robert L. Johnson, Founder of BET Networks and Chairman of RLJ Companies spoke about the entrepreneurial journey, capital markets and the investing landscape.    In addition to a robust line up of speaking faculty, the Conference also hosted a women’s luncheon with a stellar line-up of women in investment banking sharing insights on the art of deal making in a male dominated space. 

In addition to the various sessions, keynotes and networking opportunities, the ACG LA Conference drew a record number of Capital Connection exhibitors and Deal Source participants who participated in our signature one-on-one pre-scheduled meetings between Investment Banks and PEGs to discuss deal opportunities. 

ABOUT ACG LOS ANGELES
For over 40 years, ACG LA has been a hub for the city’s business community. A place for executives of all types to learn new practices, challenge conventional thinking and broaden and strengthen their relationships throughout the region. ACG LA’s members represent companies and industries that are as varied as the neighborhoods of Los Angeles – corporate executives, commercial and investment bankers, private equity investors as well as legal, accounting and finance professionals, many of whom specialize in mergers and acquisitions or corporate development. The diversity of professions and industries is one of ACG LA’s greatest strengths, along with the Chapter’s commitment to hosting events that bring members together, as well as help them share information and stay apprised of the business environment. ACG LA is more than a networking group—it’s an organization of individuals pursuing the shared goal of corporate growth.

Featured keynote speaker, Ben Parr, an author and brand strategist opened the conference with an insightful look at branding, marketing and how to capture an audience. While discussing his book “Captivology”, Ben shared his scientific research and a deeper understanding of the non-verbal cues that can capture an audience and consumer. His presentation focused on the psychology of the consumer and current marketing trends impacting the way the food sector is now reaching its target audience through innovation, social media and personalized campaigns.

The keynote was followed by two hour long breakout sessions.  Attendees chose from the first session titled “Financing and Access to Capital: Opportunities, Trends and Creative Growth”, which was moderated by Joe Mazza of McGladrey and discussion led by Katie Carano of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Robert Woolway of Trinity Capital,  and  Amanda Luttrell of Endeavor Capital.  They discussed the fiscal challenges, opportunities and creative growth strategies within the market.  The concurrent session was titled “Technology, Profitability and the Future Workforce” and was moderated by Bob Jacobson of McGladrey, with discussions led by Joann Lo of the Food Chain Workers Alliance, David Rosenstein of Evo Farm and George Salmas of The Food Lawyers.  They discussed the current trends of technology in and around the Food and Beverage industry with array of perspectives that covered topics from farming, workforce, sustainability, 3D technology and the future of food and beverage.   

The final breakout session focused on “Ethnic Markets and Consumer Trends”.    This session was moderated by Mina Trujillo of Chraft PR with discussions led by Erik Oberholtzer of Tender Greens, Lupillo Ramirez of Northgate Gonzalez Market, and Luis Saavedra of Tapatio Hot Sauce.  The discussion provided insights from a diverse panel of speakers about the Hispanic market, trending flavors and demands from the consumers, private label and the grab and go market.   

Attendees then reconvened to attend the networking lunch sponsored by McGladrey and Northgate Gonzalez Market.

The Food Insights Summit and was a huge success and brought together some of Los Angeles’ finest professionals who are currently making great strides in the food and beverage sector.

We thank our sponsors Bank of America Merrill Lynch, McGladrey and Northgate Gonzalez Market along with our speakers, supporters, and attendees.

McGladrey also invites you to review their latest Food and Beverage Report covering important food industry trends, opportunities and insights.

About Chraft PR. Chraft PR is a public relations, marketing, and conference production agency passionate about building brands, engaging and connecting people.  Tapping into its highly entrepreneurial instincts, strategic communications and marketing expertise, Chraft PR’s goal is to help businesses build an unforgettable brand, create a compelling experience, build a brilliant strategy and guide you through a dynamic journey. Chraft PR is here to help create brand influence that go from good to extraordinary.

Chraft PR is located at 515 S. Flower, 36^th Floor in Downtown Los Angeles and can be reached at 213.236.3613.

The 2014 Food Insights Summit took place on Thursday, January 16th at the new City Club in Downtown Los Angeles. Industry professionals gathered to discuss trending topics on sustainability, manufacturing, and emerging trends within the food and beverage sector. Industry leaders participated in networking sessions, breakout panels and a keynote discussion throughout the event.

Featured keynote speaker, Tim Halloran, opened up the conference with an insightful overview into the world of branding and product development. While discussing his latest book “Romancing the Brand”, Tim discussed his experiences in launching some of the most successful marketing initiatives through his unique market research and brand development strategies. His interactive presentation focused on current day trends impacting the way the food sector is now reaching its target audience through innovative campaigns.

The event was followed by two hour long breakout sessions which attendees had the option of choosing from. The first session titled “Financing and Access to Capital”, was led by VMG Partners, Byran Cave, Focal Point Partners and Bank of America as they discussed the challenges, opportunities and creative growth within the market. The following session was titled “Consumer Trends” and was led by industry executives from Northgate Supermarkets, Cacique Foods and The Food Lawyers who discussed the effects of private labels within the Hispanic market.

The final two breakout sessions followed and focused on “Risk, Regulation and Policy” and “Profitability, Innovation and Competitive Advantage.” The first session was led by the Los Angeles Department of Public Health, UCLA and Sustainable Microfarms who discussed the overall future of the food industry along with current sustainability efforts. The second session focused on the challenges, opportunites and the future of the food industry and was discussed by Fleischmann’s Ingredients, Frandeli Group and CHOCTAL executives.

Attendees then reconvened in the large ballroom to attend the networking lunch and continue their thoughts and conversations. The first annual Food Insights Summit was a huge success and brought together some of Los Angeles’ finest professionals who are currently making great strides in the food sector. The conference was produced and presented by Chraft PR, a local public relations, brand marketing and conference production agency.

ABOUT ACG LOS ANGELES
For over 40 years, ACG LA has been a hub for the city’s business community. A place for executives of all types to learn new practices, challenge conventional thinking and broaden and strengthen their relationships throughout the region. ACG LA’s members represent companies and industries that are as varied as the neighborhoods of Los Angeles – corporate executives, commercial and investment bankers, private equity investors as well as legal, accounting and finance professionals, many of whom specialize in mergers and acquisitions or corporate development. The diversity of professions and industries is one of ACG LA’s greatest strengths, along with the Chapter’s commitment to hosting events that bring members together, as well as help them share information and stay apprised of the business environment. ACG LA is more than a networking group—it’s an organization of individuals pursuing the shared goal of corporate growth

The morning commenced with an hour-long breakfast which provided abundant networking opportunities along with an exhibit area that hosted several city organizations and business sponsors. Simultaneously, NACD along with Acacia Wealth Advisors also held their annual pre-conference Corporate Governance Roundtable during the networking session. The viewing of the Sundance Film Festival trailer for “Detropia” led way into Mina Trujillo’s welcoming remarks and official conference introduction. The featured keynote speakers this year included Jim Glassman with J.P. Morgan Chase who gave a presentation on the most current economic outlook in California for the manufacturing sector. Vice Admiral Lou Crenshaw with Grant Thornton presented thoughts on Washington’s sequestration and Vu Pham, Ph.D. with Spectrum Knowledge shared insights on leadership and persuasion.

At 10:30am, attendees had the option to attend expert-led panels in Consumer Products/ Retail or Training the Present & Futures Manufacturing Workforce. In the Consumer Products/ Retail breakout panel, industry executives from thinkThin, Northgate Supermarkets, Chef LaLa Homemade and Intrepid Investment Bankers came together to discuss current trends and the retail landscape. The Workforce panel led by the Centers for Applied Competitive Technologies, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems, Space X and Project Lead the Way discussed the direction of the current workforce and the necessary recruitment and training we must act upon to secure America’s future in competitive manufacturing.

The final two breakout sessions focused on Fashion/Apparel and Aerospace and Defense industries.
Panelists from Tokidoki, Charlotte Tarantola, and CFA came together to address the current state of apparel manufacturing in the US. The Aerospace and Defense breakout session were led by representatives from Boeing Defense, Duccommun, Frontier Associates, The Aerospace Corporation and Janes Capital.

The West Coast Manufacturing Conference once again served as a catalyst for a movement which will bring both national and local attention into the economic impact of this vital industry. The conference was produced and presented by Chraft PR, a local public relations, brand marketing and conference production agency.

Click here to enjoy a conference recap featured in Apparel News

For the event gallery check out our facebook page here

Facing unprecedented global economic volatility, the remnants of a sub-prime mortgage crisis, falling home prices and tighter credit, the United States is having to create new avenues for business.

In the spirit of this time of re-creation and re-dedication, hundreds of executives, CEOs, leaders from the public sector, and members of the business elite convened this September to meet in Los Angeles and focus on corporate finance, Mergers & Acquisitions, and financing.

The ACG Los Angeles Business Conference is a two-day conference that took place on September 11^th and 12^th at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills.  Now in its 15^th year, the ACG L.A. Business Conference continues to serve as a premier conference for deal-making plans.  The event continues to provide abundant networking opportunities between decision-makers from across the country and internationally.  These individuals remain focused on corporate finance, growth strategies, and the most recent trends in M&A for middle-market companies and economies. 

The conference hosted more than 100 private equity funds, hedge funds and other capital sources, featured breakout sessions such as the Women’s Forum (a gathering of women from the corporate world, the investment community and the professions) and Deal Source (a by-invitation-only event).

ABOUT ACG LOS ANGELES

For over 40 years, ACG LA has been a hub for the city’s business community.  A place for executives of all types to learn new practices, challenge conventional thinking and broaden and strengthen their relationships throughout the region.  ACG LA’s members represent companies and industries that are as varied as the neighborhoods of Los Angeles – corporate executives, commercial and investment bankers, private equity investors as well as legal, accounting and finance professionals, many of whom specialize in mergers and acquisitions or corporate development.  The diversity of professions and industries is one of ACG LA’s greatest strengths, along with the Chapter’s commitment to hosting events that bring members together, as well as help them share information and stay apprised of the business environment. ACG LA is more than a networking group—it’s an organization of individuals pursuing the shared goal of corporate growth.

After welcoming the crowd, Agapi dove into a warm and engaging presentation about her book and the journey that inspired it.  Born in Greece and raised in a family that included sister Arianna Huffington, her anecdotes and “lessons learned” derive from a rich history based in hard work, failure, success, and the unyielding love and support of her mother, Ellie.  Ellie’s influence is evident throughout the book and through Agapi’s description of her; it is easy to understand why.  Ellie was a woman both powerful in mind and in spirit.  She rose above innumerable levels of diversity to eventually impart upon her daughters the philosophies of, “Don’t miss the moment”, “There’s always a solution”, and “Always ask for what you want”

It was an inspirational gathering attended by a number of Los Angeles’ prominent business women and men. 

You can read more about the evening on The Huffington Post.

Women 6.0 is a network and series of events produced by Chraft PR.  The series serves to bring together and enrich professional women through connections, collaborations, and continuous development.

The morning commenced with an hour-long continental breakfast and networking meet-up that was held simultaneously with a pre-conference Corporate Governance Roundtable held by NACD-LA. At 9am attendees then had the option to attend any of the three expert-led panels on Fashion and Retail, Aerospace, or Consumer Products.

In the Fashion/Retail breakout company leaders from Forever 21, the California Fashion Association , Karen Kane and Big Strike came together to discuss the current state of the industry, today’s retail landscape, and the manufacturing supply chain for fashion merchandise. Panelists also provided insight into business development trends, licensing opportunities, and partnerships for both emerging and mature brands. The panelists further discussed the retail landscape and the current mood of the industry.

In addition to the Fashion and Retail panel, representatives from Boeing, Avante Mezzanine Partners, Janes Capital Partners, Frontier Associates, and The Aerospace Corporation came together to address a number of issues currently affecting the Aerospace and Defense industry. These included how middle market and smaller companies are maintaining a competitive edge in a shrinking marketplace, the current state of supply chain partnerships and financing trends, and how consolidation in the aerospace industry and supplier network continues on an upward trend.

The third panel dealt exclusively with Consumer Products and the bleak years this market has recently faced.

Panelists from Kids Line, CR&A Custom, Greenberg & Glusker, Duff & Phelps, and Employers Group discussed how less demand and excess inventory is being handled along with dramatic drops in consumer consumption and delayed expansion plans. Speakers also offered up their strategies for returning to profitability and mitigating risk.

After the dynamic panel sessions, attendees reconvened in the Grand Ballroom to hear opening remarks by Conference Producer Mina Trujillo and L.A. City Deputy Mayor Matt Karatz. Keynote speeches by Grant Thorton’s Water Grunes on “Five Factors for Growth in the Manufacturing Industry” and JP Morgan Chase’s Jim Glassman’s “Economic Update” concluded a lively and informative day. It was proof positive that the City of Los Angeles is teeming with individuals who are committed to keeping America’s manufacturing base strong.

The conference was produced and presented by Chraft PR, a local public relations, brand marketing and conference production agency.