FROZEN FOOD MONTH IS HOT TOPIC AT CONVENTION

MARYELLEN LO BOSCO

LAS VEGAS -- Next year's National Frozen Food Month was discussed at a retail planning meeting at the National Frozen Food Convention here.

The roundtable discussion touched on such issues as how store personnel can create themed displays and how retail chains that do not allow individuals to collect cash awards can still participate in the display contest, according to a participant at the meeting.

Other topics included how to inspire store personnel to become enthusiastically involved in the March promotion, whose theme next year will be "Devoted to Quality." Participants also talked about methods for making the frozen-food aisle a destination stop, where customers will do some impulse shopping.

"We think the 1998 theme, 'Devoted to Quality,' delivers the perfect message to consumers," said Nevin Montgomery, president of the Harrisburg, Pa.-based National Frozen Food Association, in the association's 1998 Idea Book.

"The industry is devoted to quality, as evidenced by the incredible richness, popularity and diversity of the frozen offerings available today," Montgomery said.

A national sweepstakes, to be announced in the March 1998 issue of McCall's and Family Circle, will be part of the NFFM promotion.

A kick-off celebration dinner will be hosted by the Frozen Food Council of Oregon and Southwest Washington in Portland Feb. 26. Currently, 50 local associations are participating in the NFFM promotion across the country.

As reported in SN, Larry Hansen, president of grocery sales for Albertson's, Boise, Idaho, is the retail co-chairman for the 1998 NFFM campaign.

Frank Gambino, a 1997 Golden Penguin Competition Judge, gave the following tips to prospective contestants in the NFFA's 1998 Idea Book: include a narration; a video enhances your portfolio, it does not replace it; don't forget the NFFM logo; stick with a standard portfolio or binder; and be sure to abide by the size and weight guidelines.