SANTA MONICA, CA - The trade show excitement is building! Following the development of its new foodservice program, Gem-Pack is taking on this year’s IFPA Foodservice Conference with much to share with the industry.

“Gem-Pack’s foodservice program is built on the same foundation that made us a retail leader—premium quality, consistency, and scale—but now laser-focused on meeting the unique demands of foodservice operators,” says Tom Smith, Gem-Pack’s Vice President of Export Sales and Foodservice. “We are still a family-owned, farmer-proud company that is fully vertically integrated, beginning with our breeding program all the way through to our own logistics and trucks. We’re here to grow—aggressively and smartly—through partnerships, transparency, and a drive to outperform expectations.”

As Tom explains to me, some key pillars of Gem-Pack’s new program include:

• Premium quality and reliable supply across all berry varieties year-round
• Flexible contract terms
• A dedicated foodservice division
• Trust and execution
• Proprietary varieties

During this year’s Foodservice Conference, Gem-Pack will be putting a spotlight on The Berry Patch Program, which offers a consolidated, year-round supply of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries in one seamless solution. The supplier will also showcase its private-label capabilities and strong foodservice focus, which includes a dedicated team, aligned resources, and a sharp commitment to delivering value in the foodservice arena.

“This conference is our official entry into the foodservice arena—and we’re not coming in quietly. With deep foodservice expertise on our team, we’re ready to grow fast and make a significant impact. We’re here to connect, listen, partner, and compete at the highest level,” Tom adds. “We're putting the entire berry industry on notice—and we’re just getting started.”

Gem-Pack is a year-round, full-category premium berry supplier, growing across North and South America to ensure availability, flexibility, and peak quality. The producer consolidates in Watsonville, California; Oxnard, California; and McAllen, Texas—offering reliable, one-stop berry supply during every season.

“What sets Gem-Pack’s foodservice programs apart from others in the industry is our customer-first mindset, scale, and consistency. Communication and service are cornerstones of how we operate. Your success is our success. We're all-in with every customer we work with,” Tom explains. “We grow in virtually every viable berry region across North and South America, ensuring a steady, uninterrupted supply. Our proprietary varieties consistently outperform in flavor, appearance, and performance.”

Several consumer trends have recently gained momentum, driving demand for berries at the foodservice level. From the rise of mocktails to the increase in health-conscious consumers, foodservice operators have the chance to harness the flavor, quality, and versatility of Gem-Pack’s berry portfolio. The grower’s four-berry, year-round availability unlocks creativity and consistency for chefs and food buyers alike, creating the opportunity for seasonless menus.

“Berries elevate everything from savory entrées to snack platters. Whether it’s a breakfast parfait or a dinner plate, they belong on every part of the menu—and every corner of the store,” Tom concludes.

Be sure to stop by the Gem-Pack booth during this year’s Foodservice Conference to learn more about this robust new program!

And keep reading ANUK for the latest show updates and insights.