Special Report: The Global Produce & Floral Show

The International Fresh Produce Association’s Global Produce & Floral Show, scheduled for Oct. 16-18 in Anaheim, CA, will showcase an unparalleled global buyer presence, uniting retail, foodservice and wholesale leaders from around the world. Attendees will have opportunities to connect with suppliers, explore innovative products and establish strategic partnerships, making it a significant event for industry networking and growth. 

“We’re seeing unprecedented interest from global buyers this year, and it’s a clear signal that the world is looking to the Global Show as the event to do business,” said Jessica Keller, IFPA’s Vice President of Global Industry Relations. “Beyond deal-making, retailers are bringing larger global teams to explore innovation, branding, marketing and best practices. It’s all about building relationships, aligning strategies and shaping the future and IFPA is proud to provide the platform.” 

“Costco finds the IFPA Global Show to be extremely valuable, said Bob Huskey, VP GMM—Fresh Foods for Costco. We strive to go to market as one global entity and the event provides an ideal platform for this. We meet internally to align on global strategies while also engaging with our suppliers as a unified, global team.”

IFPA’s Global Produce & Floral Show, draws in more than 20,000 attendees, features more than 1,100 exhibitors and decision-makers from more than 70 countries. This annual show is one of the largest fresh produce and floral expos and provides participants with a premier platform for industry growth, innovation and a destination to set stakes and connect with companies throughout the supply chain. This international event cultivates global networking, business opportunities and industry wide ideas and innovation.

“Each year, The Global Show is intentionally designed to adapt to the industry’s needs, ensuring more value for our members and the entire fresh produce and floral sector,” said Jim Mastromichalis, Global Show Committee Co-Chair and Manager of Produce Merchandising for Harris Teeter. “From any corner of the world and every link in the supply chain, the Global Show empowers attendees with insights, products and connections to move their businesses forward.” 

“The Global Produce & Floral Show is where the worldwide fresh produce and floral community comes together to shape the future of fresh,” said IFPA CEO Cathy Burns. “Innovation and connection. Opportunities and possibilities. Bold insights and ideas. This is the one event that brings it all—from cutting-edge innovations and solutions, new strategic partnerships, or leading trends in fruits, vegetables, flowers and plants—together for every segment of the global supply chain.” 

A focal point of the event is the showcase of relevant and pragmatic innovation and solutions. Domestic and international exhibitors display cutting-edge produce, floral and technology solutions, solidifying its presence as an essential tradeshow to attend each year. 

“As a retailer, the Global Produce & Floral Show is an opportunity to engage with potential and existing partners and to gain insights that help shape our strategy for the year ahead,” said Yan Branco, IFPA Retail Council Chair and Head of Produce Sourcing Innovation & CEA Development for Sobeys. “The energy on the Expo floor is unmatched, it’s where true innovation meets real solutions. Whether you’re looking to solve today’s challenges or get inspired for what’s next, this show delivers. I walk away with new ideas, and I look forward to connecting with others who are passionate about the future of fresh.” 

“One of the great things about this show is that it always feels like ‘shopping for retailers,’ said Mike Roberts, Vice President of Produce Operations for Harps Food Stores. “There’s such a wide variety of innovation under one roof that I know something will grab my attention once I’m there. It’s a great chance to explore what’s trending and see ideas come to life on the floor.”

“The show is truly big — it’s essential to have a plan before walking through the doors,” Roberts said. “I often describe it as the ‘Super Bowl’ of the produce industry. Everyone is there, from growers to suppliers to retailers, which creates an unmatched opportunity to see new products, connect with industry leaders and build valuable relationships. It’s one of the most exciting events of the year because of the scale, the energy and the sheer number of opportunities it offers.”

“What makes The Global Produce & Floral Show so valuable is the chance to connect with buyers from every corner of the country,” explained Troy Bland, CEO of Bland Farms. “Unlike regional shows, this one truly draws a national audience, so in just a few days you can meet with customers from all more than. That kind of reach makes it one of the best uses of our time and resources every year.”

“The show is an invaluable opportunity to connect face-to-face with industry leaders, buyers and innovators from around the world, while showcasing our products and sharing our sustainability story,” echoed Kelsey Weingart, Brand Manager, Marketing for Peri & Sons Farms. “Its diverse mix of attendees from retail and foodservice to floral and technology provides insights into emerging trends and consumer preferences, making it an ideal place to strengthen existing relationships, create new ones and stay engaged in the conversations shaping the future of produce.”

“The Global Produce & Floral Show is where we connect with customers, showcase innovation and celebrate the produce industry together,” said Ryan Cherry, VP Sales and Marketing with Windset Farms. 

For NatureSweet, the show reliably delivers on the resources and opportunities available for exhibtiors. “It has consistently provided us with valuable opportunities to connect with customers, industry peers and partners,” said Sales Operations & Communications Leader Monica O’ Reilly. “The event not only allows us to share our mission of transforming the lives of agricultural workers but also fosters meaningful conversations that lead to long-lasting business relationships. It remains a key platform for us to highlight our impact and grow alongside the industry.”