Transforming the Poultry Industry: Insights from PEAK 2026

The poultry industry is witnessing rapid transformations driven by technological advancements, evolving market conditions, and increased demands throughout the supply chain. Producers are faced with a heightened emphasis on biosecurity and disease management, making informed decision-making paramount. Staying updated and connected has become essential for managing daily operations effectively.

Introducing PEAK: A Platform for Innovation

To address these needs, the Midwest Poultry Federation launched PEAK, an annual event designed to unite poultry producers, decision-makers, and industry professionals. PEAK serves as a hub for focused education, collaboration, and networking, offering participants a chance to step back, learn from each other, and discover actionable solutions to persistent industry challenges.

“Attending PEAK is vital for collaboration, information gathering, and forming potential partnerships for future business,” noted Jordan Woodbury, CEO and president of Dakota Provision.

Event Details

Scheduled for April 14–16 at the Minneapolis Convention Center, PEAK 2026 aims to gather poultry professionals from across the region. This multi-day event balances educational sessions, exhibits, and networking opportunities, promoting engagement with industry experts and exploration of emerging trends.

Producer-Centric Education

What sets PEAK apart from similar events is its producer-first philosophy. The conference programming is developed based on feedback from industry stakeholders, ensuring that content remains relevant to the contemporary challenges of poultry production. The focus remains squarely on education, collaboration, and delivering practical value.

“PEAK facilitates a wonderful collaboration among all organizations; it allows us to come together, share ideas, and represent our farmers effectively,” said Sheila Larson from the Iowa Turkey Federation.

Engaging Sessions and Exhibits

This year’s sessions will address significant topics affecting the industry, led by seasoned experts with practical experience in poultry production. Noteworthy sessions include:

• Inside the Egg Industry Center: Who We Are and Research Highlights – Brett Ramirez
• Responding to the Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza: Wildlife Biosecurity Assessments and Mitigation – Keith Wehner

Moreover, an extensive exhibit hall will showcase companies from all segments of the poultry supply chain, including animal health, nutrition, processing, and workforce support. Attendees can discover new innovations that are shaping the future of poultry production while directly interacting with solution providers.

New Addition: Egg Industry Issues Forum

In response to the increasing interest in egg production and regulation, PEAK 2026 will feature the Egg Industry Issues Forum, occurring on April 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This forum aims to provide critical insights into regulatory developments, market dynamics, and challenges that the U.S. egg industry faces, particularly concerning Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and biosecurity compliance.

Networking Opportunities

PEAK emphasizes peer-to-peer engagement, exemplified by the return of PEAK Unhatched: An Evening of Eats & Entertainment on April 14. This signature networking event fosters authentic conversations in a relaxed setting, facilitating meaningful connections among attendees and exhibitors.

Commitment to Industry Growth

Since its inception in 2001, the Midwest Poultry Federation has contributed over $900,000 towards supporting its member organizations. Revenue from PEAK is redirected to augment grower education, biosecurity preparedness, and workforce development initiatives. Recent funding has been allocated to foreign animal disease response structures, HPAI-focused state meetings, and youth programs such as 4-H and FFA.

“Our organization takes pride in our commitment to supporting state member organizations and student-focused poultry initiatives,” stated MPF President Lisa Henning. “Giving back to the poultry industry aligns with our PEAK mission.”

Conclusion

PEAK provides poultry producers with essential tools, insights, and connections, enabling them to stay updated, plan effectively, and engage with peers throughout the industry. For more information or to register, visit midwestpoultry.com.

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