What's new at the International Fresh Produce Association Global Produce and Floral Show this year? That's the question on everyone's mind this time of year, says CEO Cathy Burns in a press briefing detailing this year's show, which returns to Anaheim, Calif., Oct. 16-18.
One new element will be an enhanced focus on floral.
“We'll have a new floor map this year, which will include a spotlight on floral that will be filling the North Building, which is where our education and general sessions will also take place,” Burns says. “We want everyone to have the opportunity to see the entire expo footprint. So, in addition to lots of ways to help people get from one end to the other, like those incredibly convenient golf cart shuttles, we will also be opening the floral expo one hour early [at 9 a.m.] on Thursday and Friday to let buyers and visitors preview our floral exhibitors.”
IFPA is reprising its education festival taking place on Thursday morning between the State of the Industry afternoon education sessions. In addition to two main education festival stages showcasing a variety of topics, the Global Show will also introduce community spaces where attendees and exhibitors can come together to continue the conversation about the sessions taking place during the festival.
“These informal gatherings are your opportunity to share your interests and keep the dialog going in a relaxed, interactive environment,” Burns says.
Friday morning's general session, titled “The No Barriers Life” features Erik Weihenmayer, a world-class, blind adventurer, who will explore how individuals and teams can turn adversity into advantage, build strong support systems and reach for seemingly impossible goals.
Harris Teeter President Tammy DeBoer, the IFPA board of directors chair through October, and Patrick Vizzone, chair-elect, will also speak Friday morning.
“There is so much to look forward to at the show, but one of the things I'm very excited for is the opportunity to share more about all of the progress we've made,” says DeBoer, who joined Burns on the press briefing. “In Atlanta, I unveiled the new IFPA strategic plan, which is designed to unfold over three years, and Year 1 of the plan has plenty of high points where IFPA has led our industry.
“I won't give away all of the details of my remarks, but I will say that last year, I spoke a lot about shift and scale as we focus on our three pillars: worldwide influence, personalized member experience and future proofing the industry,” she continues. “We have learned a lot, and we are building incredible momentum as we expand our worldwide influence.”
DeBoer points to multiple IFPA achievements, including bringing together over 2,000 members for the recent Brazil conference; hundreds of executive leaders at the executive leadership conference in Berlin and soon in Hong Kong; as well as gathering for the Australian Sustainability Summit and a member forum in the European Union.
“As I mentioned from the stage last year, our success depends on our ability to shift from a reactive mindset to a proactive mindset. And this year, being proactive has been even more important in how IFPA serves its members and global community,” she says. “I look forward to seeing this shift in action during our education festival, including an update on the industry led supply chain of the future and the data that is driving profitability for this industry.”
DeBoer asked Burns about her favorite part of the show.
“Tammy, you know I can never pick a favorite. That's like asking me to pick a favorite child,” Burns says. “But I certainly am looking forward to you and Patrick taking the stage on Friday. I'm also looking forward to our Women's Fresh Perspective Breakfast speaker Amy Trask.”
A former CEO of the Raiders, Trask was the first female front office executive for the NFL and is now a CBS sports
analyst. She is scheduled to speak Saturday morning.
“The Women's breakfast will be our fourth general session and open to all — everyone that has an all-access pass to the show,” Burns says.
She also highlights the Race for a Healthier World 5K, schedule for Friday from 6 to 7:30 a.m. Hosted by the Foundation for Fresh Produce, the race welcomes runners and walkers to the Santa Ana River Trail, all while supporting the foundation's vision to grow a healthier world through increased access to fruits and vegetables.
But the show floor is the heart of the action, Burns says.
“The show itself is big in the best ways, and it does require a very good game plan to maximize your value,” she says.
Sessions Spotlight
Attendees to the 2025 IFPA Global Show will have an opportunity to hear from IFPA executives and industry experts on a range of hot topics. On Thursday, Oct. 16 (11:25-11:55 a.m.), IFPA Vice President of Sustainability Tamara Muruetagoiena is set to moderate a session titled, “Translating Regenerative Principles into Market Opportunities.”
“Regenerative agriculture surged into the mainstream in 2023 when global brands and retailers put it at the center of their commitments,” says Muruetagoiena. “Since then, our industry has worked to define what regenerative means and showcase the real progress being made — from growers in the field to retailers at the market.
“This session is for anyone along the fresh produce supply chain who wants a clear view of the landscape — policy, practice and consumer demand — and the inspiration to lead rather than react,” she continues. “If you want to understand where regenerative is headed and how to position your business for what's next, this is the conversation to join.”
On Friday, Oct. 17 (2:00-2:30 p.m.), Muruetagoiena will tackle the topic of “Sustainability Standards.”
“Right now, the sustainability standards landscape is crowded and often chaotic — different retailers require different certifications, and producers are left navigating a maze of requirements,” she says. “This session will help cut through the noise. With leaders from the Consumer Goods Forum and key standard owners, we'll explore how benchmarking can streamline expectations, reduce duplication, and create real clarity for the supply chain. Attendees will come away with a clearer view of where standards are headed and why alignment benefits everyone — growers, retailers, and ultimately, consumers.”
“Disrupting Fresh: Innovation that is Changing the Game,” is another not-to-be-missed session on Oct. 17. IFPA Vice President of Innovation Vonnie Estes will be joined by Walmart's Laura Himes and Fowler Packing's Ben Allen for a candid fireside chat about the technologies, partnerships and strategies transforming fresh produce.
“This session is perfect for anyone along the supply chain or on the retail side who is looking to understand how innovation is truly reshaping fresh produce,” says Estes. “From tackling labor shortages to rethinking waste and digitization, the strategies we'll discuss are the ones influencing how business is done today — and where it's headed tomorrow. It's a must-attend if you want candid, straight talk on the trends shaping our industry and, more importantly, if you want to position yourself and your company at an advantage in a rapidly changing marketplace.”
Burns' Top Tips for IFPA Global Produce and Floral Show
- Download the event app — It provides a show floor map while also giving attendees the most up-to-date happenings throughout each day of the show. (Google Play Store | Apple Store)
- Take advantage of the extra floral hours to see all areas of the floor — “I highly recommend heading over there for those flexible hours to ensure you can meet with each new potential connection and see a spectacular part of the show,” Burns says.
- Visit the IFPA booth — Attendees can connect with a variety of IFPA subject matter experts.
- Visit the Innovation Hub — Attendees can engage in conversations around the hottest new tech innovations, food, safety and sustainability. “You'll also be able to get a bit of a peek around the curtain on how IFPA is innovating in the areas of AI and data,” Burns says.
Burns says the IFPA Global Produce and Floral Show is more than an event.
“Last year, we spoke a lot about how everyone invested in the produce and floral industry belongs at the produce
and floral show and truly belongs in all the conversations that guide our industry forward,” she says. “This is not just an event that you come to, it's a community you create by being there.
“We may be building the opportunity in Anaheim, but our members and our attendees create the possibilities, and right now, the stakes could not be higher,” she continues. “So I encourage everyone to get registered. The sooner you register, the sooner you can start planning for your time at the show.”
On the Show Floor
To help inform attendees' game plan before hitting the show floor next month, The Packer asked exhibitors why visitors should make time to stop by their booths.
Avocados From Mexico, Booth No. 445
“If you come to our booth, we're going to give you a whole experience around the unique offers that we have,” teases Stephanie Bazan, senior vice president of commercial strategy and execution for Avocados From
Mexico, at a Sept. 9 press preview event.
Guacamole goes with football, says Avocados From Mexico, which will lean into this connection with several planned promotions and teasers at its booth. Want to experience Miami? Come check out the “Guac Box” experience. That plus more football-related partnerships will be revealed during the show.
Bazan also says Avocados From Mexico is focusing on the health and wellness angle of avocados in its upcoming promotions. This will involve several health-
focused partnerships with targeted social responsibility efforts. The group will preview its themed packaging that consumers can use to get actionable health benefits outside of the produce aisle.
Speaking of interactive packaging, Avocados From Mexico will announce a new snacking promotion that it hopes will engage consumers across the grocery store. It will also preview its plans for Cinco de Mayo, which will fall on a Tuesday in 2026.
At the sizable Avocados From Mexico booth in the D Hall, Bazan says attendees will find different sections each dedicated to its different “tent pole” promotions and partnerships planned for the coming year. But more than just showing off promotional materials and information, the sections will offer interactive opportunities, the potential to win big prizes and, of course, the ability pick up some tasty treats.
California Walnut Commission, Booth No. 1510
The California Walnut Commission plans to expand the organization's messaging to look beyond health to how walnuts fit seamlessly into today's lifestyles, says Robert Verloop, the commission's executive director and CEO.
He says this messaging, debuting at the commission's booth, hopes to resonate with younger consumers.
“By visiting our booth, attendees can learn about our new consumer and retail efforts that include vibrant visuals, fun yet elevated walnut usage ideas and a fresh and modern look that retailers can put to work to help drive sales,” Verloop says. “It marks a new chapter for the category that means moving beyond the baking aisle and into the places where consumers look for inspiration: the produce section, the snacking aisle and plant-forward meals.”
The California Walnut Commission will also highlight its custom retail programs and marketing support to help retailers connect with shoppers.
“California Walnuts is bringing a fresh look and energy to grandma's baking nut, offering new ways to connect with consumers and new opportunities for retailers,” he says. “Our retail marketing team will be available to discuss programs available for retailers nationwide.”
Crunch Time Apple Growers, Booth No. 3247
Based out of the New York State Department of Agriculture booth, Crunch Time Apple Growers plans to offer samples of varieties developed at Cornell University, SnapDragon and RubyFrost.
“It's the perfect opportunity for retailers to taste the difference firsthand and talk with our team about how we can support their sales, too,” says Jessica Wells, Crunch Time Apple Growers executive director.
Wells says booth visitors will also get a chance for a photo-op with SnapDragon's mascot, Snappy.
Wells also says that along with the Crunch Time representation at the New York State Department of Agriculture booth, there will be a significant presence of sales partners throughout the IFPA trade show floor.
“These shippers will represent SnapDragon and RubyFrost (along with other varieties they offer) at their respective booths,” she says. “This includes Fowler Farms, Hess Brothers, Rice Fruit, New York Apple Sales, Riveridge/JP Sullivan, and Applewood. Representatives from United Apple Sales will be at the show, but they do not have plans to exhibit. Any of these representatives can help retailers get SnapDragon and RubyFrost on their shelves.”
Divine Flavor, Booth No. 647
The entire Divine Flavor sales team will be at the IFPA event to talk about the opportunities the company can with retailers and what they can expect in the coming season. While Divine Flavor is best known as a provider of table grapes, there is more the company is working on.
“Our footprint continues to grow across our vegetable programs, including bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers and other hot-house items, available in both conventional and organic,” says Michael DuPuis, quality assurance and public relations manager at Divine Flavor. “We're working hard to close production gaps and become a true year-round supplier across all our core categories.”
There are also rumors of some big news the company plans to discuss at the show.
Equifruit, Booth No. 3568
Visitors to Equifruit's booth can grab a delicious wellness beverage that will fuel their day and get them fired up about fair pay for banana farmers, says Creative Content Manager Madison Hopper.
“Equifruit will also be tearing up the IFPA block party with a banana fitness challenge, complete with prizes for
the biggest banana badasses,” Hopper
says. “Get ready to flex your muscles (and your morals).”
Ever revealing new ways to convey the affordability and importance of supporting Fairtrade International-certified bananas, Equifruit is turning fair trade bananas into a wellness product at this year's IFPA, so people will pay sustainable prices for them, she says.
“We're helpfully pointing out to attendees that for the same price as their $5 protein shake or gym snack, they could upgrade to Equifruit fair trade bananas for a whole year,” Hopper explains. “Not only are Equifruit fair trade bananas a serious health food with potassium, fiber and gut goodness in every bite, but they also support fairer pay and better working conditions for banana farmers.”
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Booth No. 1245
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) will host award-winning chef Justin Timineri, who will be preparing delicious recipes featuring fresh Florida produce supplied by growers in the Fresh From Florida pavilion.
The cooking demonstrations and sampling will take place throughout the event, offering attendees a true taste of Florida agriculture, says Susie McKinley, director of the division of marketing and development for FDACS.
Fresh From Florida staff will also be on-site to answer questions about the Retail Incentive Program and distribute promotional items. With a strong global retail presence, a social media following of over 1.37 million and an annual advertising campaign that exceeded 1.16 billion impressions in fiscal year 2024-25, Fresh From Florida continues to connect produce buyers with premium, locally grown products, McKinley says.
“It's a great opportunity to engage with our team, explore partnership opportunities and enjoy some Florida-grown goodness,” McKinley says of the event.
Fresh Innovations LLC/Yo Quiero, Booth No. 1417
At this year's event, Yo Quiero plans to feature some brand-new dips and delicious eats, says Tara Murray, vice president of marketing for Fresh Innovations LLC/Yo Quiero brand.
“Our Dip Destination continues to expand with the addition of a line of creamy white dips, a line of authentic, Mexico-Inspired guacamole and candied jalapeno peppers,” Murray says. “The sweet heat and crunch of the jalapenos is amazing, and we'll be featuring these items on and with some delicious foods created by our award-winning chefs.”
Highline Mushrooms, Booth No. 4184
“Highline Mushrooms is bringing the mushroom party back to IFPA's Global Produce and Floral Show, and everyone's invited,” says Sabrina Pokomandy, director of business development and marketing for the company.
After making waves with its new booth debut last year, Pokomandy says Highline Mushrooms is turning the energy up even higher this year.
“Step inside our bold, reimagined space — complete with a fully merchandised refrigerated case built to inspire and drive mushroom sales. Experience mushrooms like you (or your shoppers) have never seen them before. The booth bursts with vibrant color, modern design and immersive storytelling that bring our ‘Be Super' brand to life on the show floor,” Pokomandy says.
This year, Highline Mushrooms is adding something extra: an exclusive first look (and first taste) at its newest innovation created to meet the growing demand for easy, ready-to-cook meal solutions.
“These crave-worthy creations prove that mushrooms make meals complete and nutritious in minutes, transforming everyday dishes from simple to sensational with minimal effort. And this is just the beginning, with even more exciting products to come,” Pokomandy says.
Be among the very first to sample this new line, debuting exclusively at the Highline Mushrooms booth all weekend long — the perfect addition to any supermarket's ready-to-cook section, Pokomandy says.
“Highline Mushrooms is reimagining what mushrooms can be (and need to be) for the next generation of shoppers,” Pokomandy says.
Mastronardi Produce, Booth No. 4157
“The Mastronardi Produce/Sunset booth is always a destination. We pull out all the stops for the IFPA GPFS,” says Geoff Kosar, vice president of marketing. “This year, we're thrilled to be launching several new products and redesigns. From new innovations in snacking, to premium organic products, to sustainable packaging, there's something for everyone.”
Kosar says the Canadian greenhouse grower will also feature its new Summer Blast Blueberry Snacking Cup, the Organic WOW Joyberry Blueberry, its new Backyard Farms Green Leaf Lettuce Paper Bag and the newly redesigned Angel Sweet tomato package.
“We'll have our chef on-site highlighting the flavor and versatility of our produce, as well as sampling a variety of new and classic Sunset products,” he says. “Our team will be ready to answer any and all questions and connect with our customers, partners and friends in person. There's so much to see and taste. Mastronardi is always pushing the envelope on flavor, quality and innovation. As pioneers of the industry, we continue to harness this spirit in everything we do.”
Kosar says the company will also spotlight its North American greenhouse network at the IFPA event.
“This year, we're taking ‘Flavor Coast to Coast,' celebrating the vast network of greenhouse and distribution hubs Mastronardi operates across North America,” he says. “From East to West, Mastronardi Produce brings the flavor, freshness and quality customers and consumers alike love and expect. As part of this campaign, we're launching an exclusive LinkedIn video series: ‘Next Stop Flavor,' that previews the exciting products we're highlighting en route to Anaheim this October.”
Mastronardi Produce also plans to launch a lineup of new products and product redesigns that will be on display for visitors. The new Summer Blast Blueberry Snacking Cup offers a new take on healthy snacking on the go. Packaged in convenient grab-and-go resealable cups, these sweet-and-crisp blueberries are ideal for packing in lunches, for road trips and more, Kosar says.
On the new packaging front, Mastronardi Produce will offer attendees a look at the new Backyard Farms Green Leaf Lettuce Paper Bag.
“The design uses 65% less plastic than a traditional PET tray, while keeping the lettuce crisp and delicious just as long as a plastic tray,” says Kosar, who adds that earlier this year, the design earned the Packaging Innovation Award at the Canadian Produce Marketing Association Convention and Trade Show.
“In addition to the new and exciting showcase lineup, we'll also have the elegant Mastronardi Tomato Branch on display, perfect for adding a flourish to any charcuterie board or tablescape,” he says.
The recently launched Secilia tomato also will be on display, as will the newest addition to the Bombs tomato lineup: Bomb Squad.
Ocean Mist Farms, Booth No. 3261
Visitors to Ocean Mist Farms' retailer-style booth will get an immersive experience, equipped with coolers that mimic a produce department's coolers.
“A full wall of produce department-style coolers allow us the opportunity to merchandise our complete product line — fresh commodities, value-added and meal-solution items — showcasing the depth and breadth of our offerings in an engaging, store-like environment,” says Hilda Medina, marketing manager for Ocean Mist.
Medina says multimedia stations throughout the company's booth will highlight Ocean Mist's fields, crops, harvests and operations to offer visitors an immersive experience.
At IFPA, Ocean Mist will showcase its full line of premium fresh vegetables that extend beyond artichokes.
“Visitors will be able to see and experience firsthand the depth of our commodity line, as well as packaged items including our value-added products and our latest innovation, Roastables Ready-to-Roast kits,” says Lori Bigras, communications manager with Ocean Mist. “Our goal in meeting with customers and visitors at shows is always to create an authentic, engaging experience — something far more memorable than what could be gleaned about our company and product line from a website or sell sheet.”
Bigras says booth visitors will get a chance to sample Ocean Mist Farms' hot and fresh Roastables in four flavors ranging from sweet to zesty and spicy to savory.
The company plans to highlight its Roastables Ready-to-Roast Kits, which now boast seven offerings, including three washed and halved Brussels sprout offerings featuring chef-crafted flavors. This year, Ocean Mist has expanded the line with four new items: washed and trimmed broccoli florets in Zesty Herb and Sweet Teriyaki and cauliflower florets in Spicy Buffalo and Parmesan and Black Pepper.
“Preparing and serving booth-side samples always creates buzz and energy, drawing in attendees eager to taste and learn more,” Medina says. “Every show where we've sampled Roastables has brought rave reviews — and plenty of return visitors.”
Oppy, Booth No. 1039
“There's always something new to discover at Oppy,” says Marketing Communications Manager Kelsey Van Lissum. “From almonds, apples, avocados, berries, citrus, cherries, garlic, greenhouse, grapes, kiwifruit, stone fruit and beyond, our lineup spans the best of fresh.”
Oppy represents a host of leading brands, including Blue Diamond, Envy, Zespri, Avoworks, Eco Farms, Dole, Sun Grape, Ocean Spray, Divemex, Frank & Able, OriginO, Perpetual Vegetable Co. and UP Vertical Farms.
“They highlight our commitment to offering a diverse, premium product range year-round,” Van Lissum says.
This year, Oppy says it will put the spotlight on Blue Diamond almonds, which were brought to market earlier this year.
“Attendees can enjoy samples throughout the show, plus a special giveaway at the booth,” Van Lissum says.
IFPA event attendees will also have an opportunity to hear from Oppy Chairman, CEO and Managing Partner John Anderson, who joins a panel of industry leaders to explore how high-performance principles can be applied to today's most pressing challenges in Thursday's general session, “Leading Through Turbulence.”
Spice World, Booth No. 1221
Ginger, garlic and cool sneakers will be on display at the Spice World booth, where attendees can check out the company's latest innovations and sample delicious food prepared with Spice World's latest products: Fresh Diced Ginger, Fresh Diced Garlic and Garlic & Ginger Fusion, says Mike Smith, senior vice president of sales and marketing.
On Friday, Oct. 17, Spice World's media campaign personality Sample Sam will be in the booth, where visitors to the booth can also register to win custom Spice World-branded sneakers.
Stemilt Growers, Booth No. 2847
For Wenatchee, Wash-based Stemilt Growers, IFPA's conference begins before the trade show floor opens, with sponsorship of the opening night reception.
Set to attend are members of Stemilt's founding family, the Mathisons, including fourth-generation cherry grower Kyle Mathison. Also in attendance will be Stemilt's new sustainability coordinator, Jana Fishback; Rob Blakey, director of research and development; and Lisa Myers, food safety and compliance manager.
Pears will be front and center at Stemilt's IFPA booth in Hall B.
“We grow, pick, and pack our Rushing Rivers pears with a mindset of setting a standard for what great pears should look and taste like,” says Brianna Shales, marketing director for Stemilt. “We are really looking forward to how our Ripe Rite program can deliver ready-to-eat pears that help retailers find success with their shoppers this season.”
Shales says Stemilt plans to highlight new packaging and display options for pears as well as apples. A major theme for this year's pear crop is to emphasize consistency and quality of pears to drive repeat purchases, she adds.
“The pear crop is up significantly over last year, and we are bringing a new poly bag concept to IFPA to help retailers display multiple varieties in one bag, allowing consumers to try new flavors,” she says. “We're also expanding our sustainable four-pack packaging into the pear category. Conventional and organic red and green pears can now be offered in our paperboard EZ Band package to market the fruit.”
Stemilt will also display its new packaging for Kyle's Pick cherries and paperboard package for pears outside of the main floor in IFPA's showcase area. Shales says Stemilt will also highlight its new packaging elements for branded items as well as new apple varieties.
“Our top-seal packaging for Kyle's Pick cherries now features an ultra-premium look that reflects the high standards we hold for the brand,” she says. “Attendees will also find that our favorite fruit brand for kids, Lil Snappers, is now available for SweeTango and Cosmic Crisp apples. We will also be bringing a couple of apples that are still growing in volume but can create excitement for the future of the category: Aura and Kissabel.”
Shales says Stemilt has also worked with Crunch Pak and CMI Growers to bring licensed characters such as Bluey, Paw
Patrol and Minions to apple pouch bags and will discuss this opportunity with retailers that visit the booth.
Booth visitors can also expect some of the trademark Stemilt “magic,” Shales says.
“Of course, David the Magician will be returning to combine Stemilt's products with his astounding magic show,” she says. “Bring your friends because you won't want to miss it.”
As a co-sponsor of the Ethical Charter Implementation Program (ECIP) and a participant in the ECIP Leadership Circle, Stemilt will weave elements of the program, as well as the company's commitment to the Equitable Food Initiative, throughout the booth, Shales says.
“We have been proud partners of these organizations since their start, and we look forward to sharing our experience and involvement with attendees,” she says.
Windset Farms, Booth No. 825
Windset Farms is excited to return to this year's IFPA show, especially with the event on the West Coast, says Ryan Cherry, vice president of sales and marketing.
“As one of the largest greenhouse growers in North America, with our Santa
Maria, Calif., facility recognized as the largest single-site vegetable greenhouse operation in the United States, this show provides the perfect opportunity to connect with customers, highlight our growth and share what makes Windset unique,” Cherry says. “Being back in California always feels like a homecoming, with our proximity to the Southwest market and our wide range of crops,
including tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers, allowing us to serve our partners with unmatched consistency and fulfillment.”
Visitors to Windset Farms' booth can expect a showcase of both new and established Windset products. One of the highlights this year is its debut of Aura Tomatoes, a premium tomato variety named for its natural glow and irresistible taste.
“With their glossy red hue, balanced sweetness and crisp bite, Aura Tomatoes live up to their tagline, Bursting with Brilliance,” Cherry says. “They are the result of our year-round variety testing and innovation taking place in California. Alongside Aura, we will also spotlight the latest additions to our award-winning branding and packaging, designed with sustainability and consumer appeal in mind.”
Beyond product innovation, Cherry says the booth represents Windset's ongoing commitment to sustainability, innovation and customer partnerships.
“With 168 acres of year-round production in California, continued expansion in Delta, BC and a strong partner grower base in Mexico and British Columbia, we deliver consistent, high-quality produce to retailers across North America,” Cherry explains. “Attendees will also have the chance to learn more about our sustainable growing practices and see firsthand how our integrated operations allow us to support customer needs today and well into the future.
“At its core, IFPA Global Produce and Floral Show is about connections, and that is why we return year after year,” Cherry adds. “We look forward to building relationships with retailers, suppliers and industry peers while sharing the story of how Windset Farms is working every day to raise the bar in greenhouse produce.”
