FAQs

Is PISC going to proceed as scheduled?

Yes! We've received several inquiries on the status of our Purchasing and Ingredient Suppliers Conference, scheduled to take place next week in Orlando, and wanted to let you know that it will proceed as scheduled. Our team stands ready to serve attendees that are registered. We've made some real-time adjustments to our safety protocols to account for changing guidance from public health authorities, which we have communicated to our registered attendees, and are doing everything possible to provide a safe meeting environment. We are doing our best to communicate our safety policies and procedures, but should you have any further questions, please direct them to register@afia.org. 

Who plans this event?

AFIA's Purchasing & Ingredient Suppliers Committee oversees the planning of the conference. We want to thank them for all their hard work and dedication to providing a fantastic program. Whether you will be joining us in sunny Orlando or participating virtually from your hometown, PISC is and will continue to be where business gets done! 

How will PISC be different in this new era? 

In-person registration is now open.  We are still evaluating the possibility of whether hybrid opportunities should be made available. 

• The in-person registration will include admittance to all the education sessions, 2 breakfasts, 2 receptions and unlimited private meeting and networking opportunities.  Badges are required for admittance. 
• If your circumstances do not allow you to travel in 2021, you might be able to participate virtually in the educational and networking components of this event. Please email us at register@afia.org and let us know you are interested.

The American Feed Industry Association will be holding this meeting in accordance with state and local regulations and will be implementing precautions based on CDC and Hyatt recommendations.  More information will be available as we get closer to August 2021. Should you have any questions or concerns before these details are available, please contact AFIA’s senior director of meetings and events at vrovelli@afia.org.

Do I have to wear a mask?

This year’s Purchasing & Ingredient Suppliers Conference (PISC) will need to be different as we all work together to end this pandemic. As the situation with COVID-19 is regularly evolving, we are monitoring guidance on a daily basis from local, state and federal health authorities on measures to keep people safe. This means, we will be making real-time adjustments, as necessary, to provide a safe meeting environment. We will communicate our on-site policies to registered attendees prior to travel and will post signage throughout the event space to keep you informed of any changes. Please contact vrovelli@afia.org with any questions or concerns. 

What are the registration costs? 

The early-bird fees are $599 for Members, $2,050 for Nonmembers and $105 for Spouse if you register by Jun. 15, 2021.  The regular registration fees are $699 for Members, $2,250 for Nonmembers and $135 for Spouse, if you register after Jun. 15, 2021. Onsite registration rates are $899 for Members, $2,450 for Nomembers and $155 for Spouse, if you register after Jul. 30, 2021.  

Registration will include admittance to all the education sessions, 2 breakfasts, 2 receptions and unlimited private meeting and networking opportunities.  Badges are required for admittance. 

Who and why should I attend? 

WHO: The program is designed to benefit all feed, ingredient and pet food professionals so anyone interested in the current state of the animal feed industry should attend.  Every year, past attendees recommend PISC as the best meeting for buyers and sellers of ingredients. We invite you to view the 2019 and 2018 registrations lists. WHY: PISC will help identify the tools to drive your business! PISC provides market analysis, perspectives on the animal feed industry, hot topics and a host of other valuable information you will find useful in running your business.

What can you expect at PISC? 

PISC’s goal is twofold: First, PISC offers timely information by providing tools to help you conduct your business better. Second, PISC brings together the buyers and sellers of feed and pet food ingredients for face-to-face opportunities. 

Where can I book a hotel room?

AFIA is pleased to offer registrants a limited number of hotel rooms at a preferred rate of $159 per night (plus tax). The block rate guarantees complimentary internet access in your guest room. Please contact the Hyatt Regency directly using this link or call (888) 421-1442 to reserve under the group name “American Feed Industry Association.” AFIA has a limited number of rooms blocked. The block is available through Jul. 16, 2021, or until it fills up. To secure your room within the block, be sure to book before Jul. 16, 2021. The AFIA room block entitles you to a 48 hour cancellation policy. Please be aware that fraudulent companies have been calling attendees claiming to represent us and the Hyatt. AFIA does not work with a housing bureau for this event and we do not endorse any of these companies. Reservations should only be made directly with the Hyatt Regency. 

If you plan on joining us in Orlando, we are also thrilled to announce that the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress has earned a GBAC star facility accreditation and continues to have the commitment to care that we have experienced in the past.  Learn more here about what Hyatt is doing as a brand to prepare a safe environment for us to meet. 

Are sleeping accommodations included in the registration fee? 

No, once registered you must contact the hotel to make your hotel reservation.  We recommend you use this link to take advantage of the special block set-up for conference attendees.

How do I register?

To register click the yellow button on the top right corner of the webpage. If you prefer a writable registration form to email please contact register@afia.org. You will receive a $100 discount if you register online. For your convenience, a list of registrants will be shared with attendees prior to the event. A printed registration list will not be available in 2021. Instead we invite you to take advantage of viewing it via our event app. 

What is the registration cancellation policy?

A 90% refund is available if you notify AFIA of cancellation in writing by June 10, 2021. A 50% refund is available when received prior to Jul. 26, 2021. No refund is available after Jul. 26, 2021. The Golf tournament is  non-refundable after Jul. 29, 2021.  Refunds will be processed within 30 days after the event. AFIA reserves the right to cancel any conference it deems necessary. AFIA will not be responsible for airfare, hotel or other costs incurred by registrants.

What is the difference between registering online and registering via email or fax?

AFIA members will receive $100 off their rate by completing their registration online. The rates listed on this website include the member discount. 

Can nonmembers receive the $100 discount off registration?

The $100 off discount is a member-only benefit if you register online. Nonmembers can, however, take advantage of early bird registration rates. For more information on becoming an AFIA member, please contact Sarah Novak, vice president of membership and public relations at snovak@afia.org. 

Is there a 1-day registration option?

We do not offer a 1-day registration option. Instead, we urge you to participate in all general sessions, receptions, and tradeshow at the event to maximize the benefits. 

If there are a scholarship for this event?

Yes, AFIA is once again offering a “Buyers to PISC” program this year. AFIA is targeting member-company professionals in buying roles who normally would not have the opportunity to attend this annual event. Five individuals will receive complimentary registration to the 2021 PISC in Orlando in addition to other paid travel expenses. If you are interested, please click here for details and the application or contact Veronica Rovelli, AFIA’s senior director of meetings and events, at (703) 558-3563 or vrovelli@afia.org

Is the conference approved for ARPAS credits?

Yes, PISC is approved for 4 CEUs eligible for ARPAS members who attend.

What is the dress code?

The dress code for this event is business casual. August temperatures in Orlando have an average high of 91 degrees and 75 degrees as a low.

What are the registration desk hours?  

Monday: Noon – 5 p.m.
Tuesday: 7 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 7 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Thursday: 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Are committee meetings being held in Orlando?

The spring committee meetings will not be taking place in conjunction with PISC in 2021.  Please contact your committee staff liaison for more information. 

Do I have to register for the conference to participate in the Golf outing?

Yes, attendees must be registered for PISC in order to participate in the Tuesday group activities. The golf tournament has a 50 person minimum.  If we do not meet this number, the golf outing will be cancelled and you will receive a full refund.  AFIA reserves the right to deny registration to the conference. 

Who do I notify about a food allergy?

There is a space during the registration process to let AFIA know about a food allergy.  You may also email register@afia.org. 

What if I need a special accommodation for a disability?

This meeting is open to all persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age or disability. If you are a person with a special dietary need, or who requires reasonable accommodations due to a disability, and/or who requires alternative means of communication (such as Braille, large print, sign language or language interpretation), please contact the meetings department at register@afia.org. 

How do I get a copy of AFIA's Antitrust policy?

By registering for this event, you agree to abide by the AFIA Antitrust Compliance and Confidentiality Policy. For a copy of the policy, please click here, visit the registration desk onsite or contact us at register@afia.org.

Why do we now have a liability waiver and code of conduct?

As stakeholders in the success of this event, we all have a role to play in the mitigation of risk. These documents are meant to serve as a reminder and inspiration to know that if we all collectively respect the significance of these contributions; we are by definition advocating for the well-being of our fellow global citizens and our industry. Thank you for your cooperation in this effort as we all work together to get back to business in a normal environment. 

How do I get a copy of AFIA's Covid Liability waiver?

By registering for this event, you agree to sign and abide by the AFIA Covid Liability Policy. For a copy of the policy and waiver, please click here, visit the registration desk onsite or contact us at register@afia.org.

How do I get a copy of AFIA's Code of Conduct policy?

By registering for this event, you agree to sign and abide by the AFIA Code of Conduct policy. For a copy of the policy, please click here, visit the registration desk onsite or contact us at register@afia.org.

What are the terms and conditions of registering?

By registering for AFIA’s conference, you are agreeing that any photos or videos taken throughout the conference or at any networking events may be used for AFIA’s communications and marketing purposes. You agree to abide by the AFIA Antitrust Compliance and Confidentiality Policy and by registering are aware of AFIA's legal notice. Registrants will receive a name badge that must be worn for entry into all speaking sessions, exhibit halls, meals and social functions. AFIA reserves the right to deny entry into the conference or to cancel any conference it deems necessary. AFIA will not be responsible for airfare, hotel or other costs incurred by registrants. Should you have any concerns about these terms, please contact AFIA’s senior director of meetings and events at vrovelli@afia.org.

Photo credits 

All Orlando promotional photos and text used on this website are for marketing purposes only and were provided by the Orlando Convention & Visitors Authority and the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress.