Founder of PIM Brands, Michael Rosenberg claims NCA Advocate of the Year honours
Michael Rosenberg, of PIM Brands, gains an advocate of the year award from the NCA. Pic: NCA
Michael Rosenberg, founder of the US PIM Brands has been in celebratory mood in the wake of gaining the NCA’s Advocate of the Year Award, with judges recognising his contribution to the wider industry, writes Neill Barston.
The honour recognises individuals and organisations that go above and beyond to ensure the confectionery industry has a seat at the table for policy discussions at the federal, state, and local levels.
As the US confectionery trade body noted, this was the first time that the accolade had gone to an individual and company associated with its ranks simultaneously, with the award being presented at NCA’s 2024 State of the Industry Conference.
Confectionery Production was on hand to cover the eventful three day show (see our exclusive video review here), and a full report can be seen in our next edition of the magazine.
“Michael’s unwavering commitment to advocacy has significantly benefited the interests of the confectionery industry,” John Downs, NCA president and CEO, said. “His leadership and his financial investment in a Washington presence sets a strong example for how companies across the industry can leverage resources to engage in policy discussions, and the dedication of both Michael and the entire team at PIM Brands is more than worthy of this dual recognition.”
In 2021, PIM Brands became the 6th NCA member company with a government relations operation in the nation’s capital and the 4th to create a corporate PAC. Rosenberg and his team have been ardent supporters of NCA’s advocacy efforts over the years, and this new focus enhances PIM Brands’ influence with members of Congress and throughout the food advocacy sector.
“It is an honour to accept this prestigious award not only for myself but on behalf of my entire company,” Rosenberg said. “As the confectionery industry faces challenges at every level of government, advocacy is more important than ever before. The choice for us was clear: an investment in a presence in Washington, D.C., and a deep commitment to PAC fundraising gives us the best opportunity to advocate efficiently for PIM Brands and the industry as a whole.”
Rosenberg founded PIM Brands in 1989 while attending college at American University in Washington, D.C., where he gained an appreciation for the importance of advocacy in business. PIM Brands produces popular confectionery and snack brands including Welch’s Fruit Snacks, Original Gummi FunMix, Sour Jacks.