Washington, D.C.-based International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) said it has determined that it is in the best interest of its members and the dairy community to postpone the Ice Cream Technology and Yogurt & Cultured Innovation conferences scheduled for March 31-April 1 at the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay in Miami due to the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19). IDFA issued the following statement regarding the event’s rescheduling:

“We are working with the hotel property to determine a suitable date to reschedule the events, and as soon as we have these details, we will communicate them directly to you. We are grateful for your understanding as we work to ensure your health and safety.

“In reaching this decision, IDFA consulted the latest information and advisories issued by the World Health Organization, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, as well as state and local officials, and held discussions with our partners in the hotel and conference industries. The public health concerns and general uncertainty related to COVID-19 has prompted many trade associations, companies, governments, NGOs and others to cancel or restrict travel and events. Travel restrictions have directly impacted our members, who come from all over the world to attend IDFA events and meetings.

“With this in mind, we will communicate the rescheduled date and additional details as soon as we have them. Conference attendees will individually need to cancel their hotel reservation by calling the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay at (305) 374-3900. Hotel reservations can be cancelled up to 24 hours prior to arrival without penalty.

“Once we have the new date, all active conference registrations and sponsorships will be transferred to the new date. We will communicate additional steps once we have confirmation from the hotel property. Please know that IDFA will continue to prioritize the health and welfare of our staff and members in all situations. Thank you.”Washington, D.C.-based International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) said it has determined that it is in the best interest of its members and the dairy community to postpone the Ice Cream Technology and Yogurt & Cultured Innovation conferences scheduled for March 31-April 1 at the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay in Miami due to the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19). IDFA issued the following statement regarding the event’s rescheduling:

“We are working with the hotel property to determine a suitable date to reschedule the events, and as soon as we have these details, we will communicate them directly to you. We are grateful for your understanding as we work to ensure your health and safety.

“In reaching this decision, IDFA consulted the latest information and advisories issued by the World Health Organization, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, as well as state and local officials, and held discussions with our partners in the hotel and conference industries. The public health concerns and general uncertainty related to COVID-19 has prompted many trade associations, companies, governments, NGOs and others to cancel or restrict travel and events. Travel restrictions have directly impacted our members, who come from all over the world to attend IDFA events and meetings.

“With this in mind, we will communicate the rescheduled date and additional details as soon as we have them. Conference attendees will individually need to cancel their hotel reservation by calling the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay at (305) 374-3900. Hotel reservations can be cancelled up to 24 hours prior to arrival without penalty.

“Once we have the new date, all active conference registrations and sponsorships will be transferred to the new date. We will communicate additional steps once we have confirmation from the hotel property. Please know that IDFA will continue to prioritize the health and welfare of our staff and members in all situations. Thank you.”