WASHINGTON -- Food Marketing Institute convened its annual Marketechnics technology conference last month in its own backyard at the Washington Convention Center, just blocks from the White House and Capitol Hill. The discussions weren't about how politics can improve society but about how technology can improve food retailing and wholesaling. IT executives from such chains as Giant Eagle, Hannaford Bros., Food Lion, Bashas' and Wawa shared insights and strategies. Attendees also found time for another Washington pastime -- networking at the welcome reception.