Chicken supply chains shift from volume to value

Posted By: Elizabeth Doughman Industry News,

Fresh Chicken Supermarket

 Source: l i g h t p o e t I Shutterstock.com

Operational pressures and evolving consumer expectations are reshaping the path from farm to retail.

The chicken supply chain is no longer just about moving product — it’s about creating value.

In a dynamic panel discussion at the 2026 Chicken Marketing Summit, leaders from across the chicken supply chain explore the operational pressures, retail expectations and consumer shifts redefining how broiler industry connects to the marketplace. Attendees will walk away with actionable insights on collaboration, transparency, efficiency and innovation that can strengthen their competitive position in 2026 and beyond.

Registration for the 2026 Chicken Marketing Summit is now open. For more information, go to www.chickenmarketingsummit.com.

The panelists include Gabe Barcenas, VP, Procurement, Chomps, Dmitry Gerasimov, senior strategic sourcing manager, Conexus Food Solutions, Shelli Laskowitz, senior manager, Poultry Innovation, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and Harry Markowitz, founder, Chicken King.

Barcenas is vice president of Procurement at Chomps, where he leads the company's sourcing strategy, supplier partnerships and procurement organization. Since joining Chomps in March 2026, he has focused on strengthening supplier relationships and building scalable procurement capabilities to support the company's continued growth.

Gerasimov brings more than 20 years of experience in procurement, international trade and supply chain management. In his current role at Conexus Food Solutions, he leads strategic sourcing initiatives across protein categories, leveraging expertise developed through extensive collaboration with retail, wholesale and foodservice partners. 

Shelli Laskowitz leads poultry innovation and commercialization for Popeyes US & C. Her team focuses on developing new poultry products and specifications, updating food technology for cost and process optimization, and ensuring consistency of core menu products. Prior to joining the culinary team at Popeyes in 2022, she worked for Pilgrims in both production and R&D. Shelli holds a BS in Food Science and Human Nutrition from University of Florida, MS in Food Science from Auburn University and MBA from Colorado State University.

As the creator of Chicken King, Markowitz is redefining what premium fried chicken can be in the convenience and retail space.  He specializes in bridging culinary creativity with scalable operations, helping retailers and convenience stores drive real foodservice revenue. Markkowitz brings a sharp, innovative voice to conversations about consumer trends, product design and the future of flavorful chicken in the convenience channel and beyond.

Attend the 2026 Chicken Marketing Summit

Make plans to attend the 2026 Chicken Marketing Summit, scheduled for July 27-29 at the Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, Florida.

Serving a unique cross section of the chicken supply chain, the 2026 Chicken Marketing Summit will feature the theme “The Protein Moment.” The one-of-a-kind event explores issues and trends in food marketing and consumer chicken consumption patterns and purchasing behavior.

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