SALINAS, CA – Looking forward to the warm days of summer and the industry events it will hold, attendees of the 2017 Organic Produce Summit (OPS) will have even more heat to count on as the event has announced two key presenters. Former Costco Food Buyer Erica Welton, and former Costco Executive Dennis Hooper, and Co-Founders of The Organic Coup, have been tapped as keynote presenters.

“We are thrilled to have Erica and Dennis share their thoughts on organic food and creating the nation’s first USDA certified organic fast food. The Organic Coup is at the forefront of revolutionizing fast food as we know it, and something our attendees won’t want to miss learning about,” said Susan Canales, Director of Operations of the Organic Produce Summit.

Both Welton and Hoover will engage event attendees in an inspiring talk on the future of food. The former Costco associates created The Organic Coup, which is America’s first USDA certified organic fast food restaurant, according to a press release. The chain has nine locations throughout the Bay Area in California, with plans to grow through 2017 including a location in AT&T Park.

“It’s a tremendous opportunity to share our story with those responsible for producing and marketing organic fresh produce,” Welton said. “The future of food come from people with deep courage, powerful voices and unwavering vision who want to make a positive impact. It’s rewarding to connect with others who share our mission and we look forward to being a part of OPS 2017.”

Welt and Hoover are one of four featured presentations that will take place at the second annual event. With one keynote presentation that will soon be announced, the other two planned presentations in addition to The Organic Coup are as follows:

• Nielsen: The consumer research agency will dive into current organic sales, and give an outlook on upcoming organic trends and opportunities.
• Retailer Roundtable: Three of the nation’s largest and most progressive retailers will discuss the challenges and opportunities for organic produce in today’s buy-side environment.

The OPS, which is dedicated solely to producers and buyers of organic produce, will be held at the newly renovated Monterey Conference Center in Monterey, CA, on July 12-13.

Want to attend? Registration is open now for retailers and buyers, with more information available here. General registration will open on February 6.

As we move closer to OPS 2017, count on AndNowUKnow for the most up-to-date announcements and insights on the event.

Organic Produce Summit