Welcome to GCIA

The new Global Culinary Innovators Association (GCIA) was created for the leading menu developers within the nation’s fastest growing multi-unit foodservice operations based on the success of the International Corporate Chefs Association (ICCA), the first chefs association designed exclusively for corporate chefs from the nation’s largest chains and multi-unit operations. The ICCA was created in 2002 for the lead menu developers from the top 200 chains based in the USA and North America. The GCIA is for the lead menu developer for chains ranked 201 – 400 in annual sales.

Mission Statement: The Global Culinary Innovators Association is an organization of multi-unit menu developers coming together to form a network that educates and elevates all aspects of the restaurant business and experience.

The board of directors has been assembled to include nearly every major industry segment. Membership is limited to the highest ranking menu developer from the multi-unit foodservice operations in the nation ranking 201-400 in annual sales. The members will assemble every year at an annual national conference we call the GCIA Culinary Combine and two regional conferences we call GCIA Culinary Connections. At these events we will immerse ourselves into the marketplace of the hottest culinary cities in the nation. Activities will include visiting farms, processing facilities, wineries, breweries and roundtables with the most prominent chefs in independent restaurants and within chains. Networking opportunities also take place at some of the nation’s largest foodservice events where our members gather. 

GCIA events are smaller and more conducive to networking and best of all there are no trade shows, booths or selling at our events. Only members, select members of the media and a very small sponsor community are invited to all GCIA events. This provides the members with an environment that is casual and productive. Benefits include access to up-to-date information on trends, training techniques, current issues, menu development and other topics that affect your menu development staff and daily operations. This will be done through a variety of education programs and hands-on training at the GCIA Culinary Combine, plus ongoing web-based news and information. Your commitment to become a member of GCIA is a unique opportunity to help create a new association in our growing multi-unit foodservice industry.

GCIA Past President Jeff Sinelli, Founder of Which Wich Superior Sandwiches, stated, “The GCIA created a culinary culture that is passionate about food in the world and how these menu items are created and sourced.” He added, “GCIA has already helped me with menu development and innovation … food tastes better when it is made with love and passion”.

For a look at interviews that share the passion GCIA members have for our new association watch our video:

 

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