Viva Fresh: The “Consumomics” of Fresh Produce, by Futurist Economist Richard Kottmeyer

The future of fresh produce opportunity takes center stage at Viva Fresh 2026 as the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) announces internationally recognized futurist economist Richard Kottmeyer as this year’s Education Session Keynote Speaker. Kottmeyer will kick off Viva Fresh’s Friday education programming on April 17 with a dynamic 90-minute session designed to challenge and equip produce industry leaders to think about not just opportunities for today but for the decade ahead.

His session will explore the “consumomics” of fresh produce, examining how shifts in public policy, economic forces, healthcare priorities and consumer behavior directly impact how fresh produce is sold and merchandised. Rather than reacting to short-term policy swings, attendees will gain a roadmap to future-proof businesses for the next five to ten years.

“Viva Fresh has always been about delivering meaningful education that moves our industry forward,” said Dante Galeazzi, President and CEO of TIPA. “Richard will challenge us to think beyond immediate disruption and focus on strategies that position companies for the next decade. This is about staying ahead, not catching up.”

As Group Chief Strategy Officer and Global Practice Lead for Food, Agriculture & Nutrition at FutureBridge, Kottmeyer advises CEOs, boards, investors and governments on structural shifts shaping the global food system. With leadership experience spanning investment banking, consulting and high-level advisory roles intersecting food, healthcare and security, he brings a powerful macroeconomic perspective to the produce industry.

Joining Kottmeyer at Viva Fresh will be Sabrina DeLay, Chief of Staff to the Chief Strategy Officer & Global Head of Food & Agriculture at FutureBridge. A seasoned strategic leader with experience spanning global program management and distinguished public-sector service, including as a Presidential Management Fellow. Together, Kottmeyer and DeLay will chart a forward-thinking roadmap and ignite a conversation that disrupts traditional sales and merchandising practices to uncover innovative economic possibilities.

Galeazzi concluded, “The produce industry sits at the intersection of policy, economics and human behavior.” “Richard and Sabrina will help leaders connect strategy to execution, translating big-picture shifts into practical decisions that strengthen resilience, competitiveness and long-term growth.”

Viva Fresh education programming is free and included with registration. The Consumomics education keynote will be on Friday, April 17 at 8:30 am, following the Meet & Greet breakfast. Now in its 11th year, Viva Fresh will take place April 16–18, 2026 and has become one of the most influential regional produce expos in North America. The event brings together growers, shippers, importers, retailers and foodservice leaders for high-impact education, a vibrant trade show floor, retail engagement and unmatched networking opportunities.

Registration is now open, with exclusive opportunities for buyers, exhibitors and sponsors. For more details, visit www.vivafreshexpo.com.

About the Texas International Produce Association
Founded in 1942, the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) promotes, advocates, educates and represents the nearly $13 billion in fresh produce that is either grown in the state or calls Texas the first point of US-arrival for North American distribution. For more information about TIPA, visit www.texipa.org or call 956-581-8632.

About the Viva Fresh Expo

The Viva Fresh Produce Expo was established in 2015 by the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) to create meaningful networking and educational opportunities for its members while shining a light on the importance of the Texas-Mexico trade corridor as a thriving hub for nutritious fruits and vegetables available year-round. The 2026 Viva Fresh Expo will be held at the JW Marriott Hill Country in San Antonio, Texas, from April 16 to April 18. Visit www.vivafreshexpo.com for more information.

About FutureBridge

FutureBridge is a global innovation and strategy advisory firm that helps leadership teams anticipate disruption and act on the future with confidence. The firm combines technology intelligence, market foresight and strategic advisory to help organizations convert emerging signals into actionable growth opportunities. With deep expertise across Food, Agriculture and Nutrition, Energy, Mobility and Industrials, Chemicals and Natural Resources, Life Sciences and Home and Personal Care, FutureBridge supports global corporations in identifying new opportunities, shaping innovation strategies and accelerating the adoption of transformative technologies. More on www.futurebridge.com.