Record Turnout at 2026 Viva Fresh Expo Highlights Industry Growth

The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) reported a remarkable turnout at the 2026 Viva Fresh Expo held on April 22 in San Antonio, attracting a record 2,872 attendees, including 380 retail and foodservice buyers. The event showcased 199 exhibitors, marking the largest participation in the show’s history.

From Humble Beginnings to Premier Trade Show

Since its launch in Austin in 2015, Viva Fresh has evolved into a vital regional trade show that fosters connections within the North American produce industry. TIPA emphasized that the 2026 edition continued this upward trajectory, offering a platform for networking, education, and business development.

Chairman’s Praise for Growing Influence

Bret Erickson, EVP at Little Bear Produce and chairman of Viva Fresh, expressed his enthusiasm over the strong attendance. “This year’s record attendance reflects the continued momentum and importance of Viva Fresh as a key platform for the fresh produce supply chain,” he stated. He highlighted that the event adapts to meet the industry’s evolving needs, providing meaningful buyer-supplier connections and high-quality educational programming.

New Opportunities for Networking and Engagement

The expo featured expanded networking opportunities, including the popular Viva Fresh Open on two golf courses at TPC San Antonio, the annual Viva Fresh Pickleball Tournament, and the inaugural Viva Fresh Wine Tasting. Signature programs like the In Bloom Women’s Event, the EDGE student program, and the Y-TIPA Young Professionals mixer showcased TIPA’s dedication to leadership development and engagement across various career stages.

Educational Sessions Address Industry Challenges

The educational sessions covered pressing industry issues, offering insights into both challenges and opportunities. Discussions included the Consumomics of Fresh Produce led by economist Richard Kottmeyer of FutureBridge and Sabrina DeLay. Attendees were also inspired by keynote speaker Hunter Pinke, who emphasized a positive mindset with his message of “no more bad days.”

Expo Floor Connects Buyers with Exhibitors

The expo floor welcomed exhibitors who showcased fresh produce, innovations, and services to a highly engaged audience of buyers and industry professionals. With this being the event’s strongest attendance to date, TIPA affirmed that Viva Fresh 2026 underscores the continued growth and vitality of the Texas and Southwest produce sectors.

Looking Ahead to 2027

The highly anticipated Viva Fresh Produce Expo for 2027 is scheduled for April 8-10 at the luxurious JW Marriott Hill Country in San Antonio. This event promises to further enhance the connections and innovations within the produce industry.

Founded in 1942, TIPA aims to promote, advocate, educate, and represent the nearly $13 billion worth of fresh produce that is either grown in Texas or arrives in the state as the first point of U.S. distribution for North America.

[RELATED: IFPA Calls On Congress To Fund Produce Incentives, Expand School Programs]