The Exciting Developments for the Global Produce & Floral Show 2023

The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) is gearing up for its significant annual event, the Global Produce & Floral Show, scheduled for October 16-18, 2023, at the Anaheim Convention Center in California. During a recent press briefing, IFPA CEO Cathy Burns and 2025 board chair Tammy DeBoer shared updates and insights regarding what attendees can expect at this year’s gathering.

New Features to Enhance Visitor Experience

Burns highlighted some notable changes for this year’s event, stating, “The show floor and our expo hours will look a little different.” One significant update is that floral exhibitors will have a dedicated area in the North Building, which will also host general and educational sessions.

In addition to providing convenient golf cart shuttles for easy navigation, the floral expo will open an hour early on October 16 and 17. “Buyers and visitors can get a preview of the floral exhibitors starting at 9 a.m.,” Burns explained. “The rest of the expo will open at 10 a.m. after our education sessions conclude.”

Engaging Educational Opportunities

This year’s popular Education Festival will occur on the morning of October 16, between Burns’s “State of the Industry” presentation and the afternoon education session. “We’ll feature two main education festival stages covering a variety of topics, along with community spaces for informal discussions,” Burns noted. “These gatherings provide an excellent opportunity for attendees to continue conversations from various sessions.”

The general session on October 17 will feature renowned blind adventurer Erik Weihenmayer, in addition to presentations from DeBoer and 2026 chair Patrick Vizzone, founder of AgroNovare. DeBoer expressed her enthusiasm about sharing the progress made with the new three-year IFPA strategic plan. “I look forward to showcasing our achievements and the momentum we’ve built through various global events,” she said.

Keynote Speakers and Special Sessions

In addition to Weihenmayer, keynote speaker Sarah Robb O’Hagan will discuss transforming competitive landscapes within the industry. The Women’s Fresh Perspective Breakfast will feature Amy Trask, the NFL’s first female front-office executive and former CEO of the Raiders, enriching the discussions on leadership in the agricultural sector.

Other engaging activities include the Race for a Healthier World 5K on October 17, aimed at promoting a healthier world through improved access to fruits and vegetables.

Maximizing Your Experience

Burns emphasized the importance of preparing effectively for the show floor. Here are her tips to maximize your experience:

• Download the Event App: This will provide access to a show floor map and real-time updates throughout the event.
• Utilize Extra Hours: Take advantage of the early open hours to explore all areas of the expo, especially the floral showcases.
• Visit Key Areas: Check out the IFPA booth and the Innovation Hub for conversations on the latest tech innovations, food safety, and sustainability.

“Our industry belongs at this show, and your presence contributes to a community that fosters innovation and collaboration,” Burns added. “The stakes are higher than ever, so I urge everyone to register and start planning for this pivotal event.”

Final Thoughts

With the Global Produce & Floral Show rapidly approaching, it promises to be not just an event but a critical moment for networking, sharing new ideas, and fostering future collaborations. Attendees can look forward to a vibrant gathering filled with opportunities to connect and learn.