Last week's Organic Produce Summit in Monterey went by in the blink of an eye. As always, it was a jam-packed event that kicked off with Field Tours and an opening reception on Wednesday, July 12. Educational sessions and an afternoon tradeshow were on the program for Thursday. "I like how you have an opportunity to meet and catch up with so many people in a very short amount of time," says Michael DuPuis with Divine Flavor. "Two busy days, then it wraps up, and you're home before the weekend. In addition, it is a great time of year to put organic produce in the spotlight as so many items are available in summer." Alexandra Rae Molumby with Bako Sweet adds how the feel of this show is unlike any other. "It is more casual, which creates an atmosphere for authentic connection and general fun." Kim Chackal with Equifruit mentioned that "being in Monterey puts everyone at ease as you're surrounded by the sea and so close to rich farming communities."
Click here for a photo impression of the show.
Trade show
The trade show is one of the key elements of the two-day event. "We love that this show is uniquely targeted for the organic market because it allows us to have very targeted conversations with organic buyers," mentioned Molumby. Natalia Toccoli with Natural Delights added that retail attendance is always excellent at this show. "The show floor is intimate and allows for really authentic conversations," she commented. Divine Flavor's Michael DuPuis was also very positive about the trade show. "We saw so many customers. Our booth was filled until the very end," he said.
Equifruit was a first-time OPS exhibitor. "We chose to exhibit due to the word-of-mouth praise in the industry," Chackal said. "The event has a reputation for being a highly targeted regional show, attracting key decision-makers."
In its seventh year, the Organic Produce Summit continues to grow. This was the largest event to date, with 170 growers and shippers exhibiting on a sold-out trade show floor. More than 1,600 people attended the event, including well over 300 brick-and-mortar retailers. "The organization has been doing a fantastic job year after year," said DuPuis. That's why we continue to support, and I expect the event will keep on growing in the years to come."
Click here to get an impression of the tradeshow floor. Photo credit goes to everyone who submitted a picture.