Why QAD Users Should Consider IFT First: Turning Industry Trends into ERP Opportunities

Posted on: July 17, 2025 | By: Alexa Leitner | QAD Business Process

In today’s food and beverage landscape, staying ahead means more than launching the next great product. It’s about meeting evolving regulatory demands, adapting to supply chain disruptions, and leveraging data to drive efficiency. That’s why QAD users specially in the Food and Beverage (F&B) space should have IFT First on their radar.

What is IFT First?

IFT First (Institute of Food Technologists) isn’t just a product showcase. It’s where science, technology, and innovation converge. From FSMA compliance to sustainability practices, the event dives deep into what’s next for food manufacturers and how companies can be better equipped to compete and grow.

Why It Matters for QAD Users

If you’re running QAD, whether SE or EE, chances are you’re already trying to tackle some of the most common challenges in the F&B space:

  • Batch traceability and recall readiness
  • Regulatory compliance (FSMA, SQF, HACCP)
  • Product lifecycle visibility and costing
  • Demand planning and forecast accuracy
  • Shop floor and warehouse integration

The themes and solutions shown at IFT First directly align with these business needs. But the real value? Learning how to bridge those insights into actionable ERP strategy.

3 Ways QAD Users Can Maximize IFT First

  1. Explore the Innovation and Connect It to Your ERP
    New ingredient trends, processing technologies, and automation tools are front and center at IFT. But to truly leverage those innovations, your ERP must be flexible and robust. QAD users should be asking: Can our system adapt? Can we measure the impact?
  2. Prioritize Food Safety and Compliance
    Sessions and exhibitors will highlight FSMA and traceability trends, areas where many QAD users underutilize available tools. Learn what’s next in regulation, then assess if your QAD setup supports real-time tracking, audit trails, and electronic documentation.
  3. Network with Industry and ERP Experts
    Our team at Logan Consulting will be on-site at Booth S2179, ready to discuss how other F&B clients are leveraging QAD for demand planning, lot tracking, costing, and improved operational reporting. Whether you’re thinking about upgrading, optimizing, or just looking to get more out of your existing system, we’re here to help.

Final Thoughts

IFT First is about more than food innovation, it’s about operational readiness. For QAD users, it’s a unique opportunity to align industry trends with ERP capabilities that support growth, compliance, and long-term success.

Stop by Booth S2179 to chat with our QAD experts or schedule a time in advance. We’d love to hear how you’re using QAD today and explore what’s possible next.