Southern Exposure 2026: Uniting Agriculture, Retail, and Families

The Southeast Produce Council is set to host Southern Exposure 2026 from February 26 to March 1 at the Orlando World Center Marriott in Orlando, Florida. This highly anticipated event will feature a series of educational sessions addressing key agricultural challenges and consumer trends, while also showcasing new product launches from exhibitors.

<h2>Conference Theme: From Fields to Families</h2>
<p>The conference theme, “From Fields to Families: Nourishing Our Nation,” aligns with SEPC Board Chair Sloan Lott's vision of emphasizing the vital link between agriculture and the families that rely on fresh produce.</p>

<h3>Educational Session I: The State of Agriculture</h3>
<p>The opening session will be moderated by Robby Cruz, VP of Produce and Floral at Target. This panel will delve into agricultural challenges and opportunities, featuring insights from industry leaders including:</p>
<ul>
    <li>Steve Church, Chairman, Church Brothers Farms</li>
    <li>Sarah Frey, Founder and CEO, Frey Farms</li>
    <li>Ashley Rawl, VP of Sales, Marketing and Product Development, WP Rawl</li>
</ul>
<p>“We're proud to present such an exceptional lineup of grower leaders,” stated Lott. “Their wealth of experience is invaluable to our attendees as we explore how to better feed families across the nation.”</p>

<h3>Educational Session II: The Power of Produce 2026</h3>
<p>This session, moderated by Rick Stein, VP of Fresh Foods at FMI, will focus on data and consumer trends. Key panelists include:</p>
<ul>
    <li>Anne-Marie Roerink, President, 210 Analytics</li>
    <li>Shanan Cox, Senior Director of Produce, Sam’s Club</li>
    <li>Andy Hamilton, CEO, Markon Cooperative</li>
    <li>Chris Keetch, Director of Produce and Floral, The Giant Co.</li>
</ul>
<p>“'The Power of Produce' will continue to be a cornerstone for Southern Exposure,” Lott noted, emphasizing the importance of consumer insights in shaping retail and foodservice strategies.</p>

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<h2>Exhibitor Highlights</h2>

<h3>Naturipe Farms: Premium Berries on Display</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.naturipefarms.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Naturipe Farms</a> will showcase its premium berry programs at booth No. 313, including a debut of protein-forward snacks. The California-based grower anticipates increased volumes in strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, providing retailers with ample opportunities for promotions.</p>

<h3>Frieda's Branded Produce: Specialty Produce Trends</h3>
<p>Frieda's Branded Produce will showcase trending tropical flavors at booth No. 417. Offering items like Popjoys kumquats and Tahitian pummelos, the company aims to connect retailers with today's adventurous consumers seeking exciting produce options.</p>

<h3>Mastronardi Produce: Introducing “Pop Its” Bite-size Cucumbers</h3>
<p>Mastronardi will showcase its SUNSET Pop Its bite-sized cucumbers, designed for convenience and flavor. The newly launched product will be available for in-store promotions this spring, emphasizing the trend toward healthier snacking alternatives.</p>

<h3>Fresh Solutions Network's Flavorables</h3>
<p>Launching at booth No. 123, Flavorables combines premium petite potatoes with chef-crafted seasonings, offering retailers an innovative, value-added option that appeals to consumers' desire for convenience and quality.</p>

<h3>Bako Sweet's Heart-Healthy Packaging</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.bakosweet.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bako Sweet</a> will highlight its new heart-healthy sweet potato packaging options at booth No. 324. The brand is committed to promoting healthier eating through thoughtful product marketing.</p>

<h3>Zespri: New Campaign After Record 2025 Season</h3>
<p>Following a successful 2025 season, Zespri will unveil a new marketing campaign at booth No. 825. The company aims to solidify its position as the leading kiwi brand through innovative consumer engagement strategies.</p>

<h3>Gotham Greens: Celebrating 15 Years of Growth</h3>
<p>Gotham Greens is commemorating its 15-year milestone with an expanded product line featuring new dips, taking its commitment to quality and freshness beyond greens. This marks a significant step in their growth within the fresh produce category.</p>

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<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>Southern Exposure 2026 promises to be a pivotal event for the produce industry, showcasing innovations and facilitating meaningful discussions between growers, retailers, and consumers. As the industry adapts to changing consumer demands, events like this will play a crucial role in nurturing connections and promoting fresh produce.</p>