The impact of communications on global association membership

During a podcast episode, our team talked with Lisa (Hovey) Garcia, executive director of IAFP, to shed light on the experiences within a global association and the communication strategies that support its thriving membership.

The strength of global reach

One of the remarkable aspects of IAFP is its global reach. With more than 4,500 members from around the world, the association truly exemplifies international collaboration. IAFP’s history dates back to 1911, and its origins are deeply rooted in food safety, starting from its foundation as a dairy association focused on milk safety. Today, it covers all aspects of food safety, from farm to fork, highlighting the importance of food safety as a universal concern.

This potential is fueled by communication — ensuring everyone from food industry professionals to government regulators and academics is well informed and aligned on best practices.

A unique blend of industry, academia and government

One of the key attributes that sets IAFP apart as an association is its membership structure, which fosters a unique interaction between three main sectors: industry, academia and government.

Lisa highlighted how these sectors come together through IAFP. The industry produces and distributes food, academics conduct the research and testing necessary to ensure safety, and government entities regulate the standards that protect consumers.

"In food safety, it just makes sense to bring them together," she remarked.

Communication between these sectors is critical to maintaining high safety standards, and IAFP serves as a hub where members from each sector can share knowledge, research and practical insights.

The power of personal connections and communication

Another enriching experience provided by associations is the opportunity for personal connection. IAFP’s annual meetings serve as a place where professionals gather not only to attend sessions but also to network, share ideas and form lasting relationships.

The IAFP annual meeting has a unique environment that features over 1,000 presentations. While these presentations are important, what truly energizes members is the personal interaction.

This collaborative atmosphere, fostered by strong communication and access to industry leaders, gives members a sense of belonging and purpose. And the magic doesn’t just begin and end at the meeting. We’re happy to support IAFP in gathering content — such as videos, key messages, social posts, newsletter and magazine content, and more — throughout their annual meeting to help communicate the lessons learned all year long.

The role of publications and digital communication

IAFP’s communication strategy extends beyond its annual meeting. The association’s two main publications — Food Protection Trends and the Journal of Food Protection — act as major tools for reaching members and disseminating critical food safety research. Trilix supports the association by writing a feature on one of its members for each edition of the Food Protection Trends magazine and helping create and share timely and evergreen topics from the journals through social content. 

Recently, IAFP made a significant transition by offering open access to the Journal of Food Protection. Previously, the journal was only available to members, but now, anyone can access the valuable research. This change exemplifies how modern associations must adapt to an evolving communication landscape. The shift has led to increased exposure and has strengthened IAFP’s reputation globally.

The open-access approach allows food safety professionals worldwide to benefit from the research being conducted, thus extending the association’s impact beyond its immediate membership.

Additionally, IAFP leverages digital communication channels, like webinars and social media, to engage members. Webinars, in particular, have become an effective tool, offering free access to content during the month of June in honor of World Food Safety Day. These digital efforts amplify IAFP’s mission and provide continuous learning opportunities for members.

Communication as the foundation

Effective communication is the backbone of any successful association, especially one as diverse and global as IAFP. From engaging in meaningful conversations at annual meetings to expanding the accessibility of scientific research, IAFP exemplifies how strategic communication fosters growth, collaboration and innovation.

For associations looking to enrich their membership experience, focusing on clear, consistent communication across multiple platforms is key. The impact of this communication goes beyond simply sharing information — it builds a community where professionals are connected, motivated and inspired to contribute to a greater global cause.