NEWARK, DL - Where can produce marketers learn what is driving today’s consumers when it comes to food and nutrition? The Consumer Connection Conference, hosted by The Foundation for Fresh Produce, is the premier gathering for industry leaders who are passionate about increasing the consumption of fruit and vegetables. Taking place April 28-30, 2025, in Dallas, TX, the conference offers a unique opportunity to network with 30 Food and Nutrition Influencers and explore the evolving landscape of produce consumption. The program will provide groundbreaking insights into shifting consumer priorities, guidance for navigating demographic influences on purchasing decisions, and strategic solutions for marketers looking to enhance their communication strategies.

According to exclusive new research from IFPA, healthy aging is more influential than ever on American consumers’ dietary habits, with 75% of consumers eating fruits and vegetables to maintain a healthy lifestyle and 57% willing to tailor their eating habits for maximum health benefits.

To help produce marketers translate these trends into impactful business strategies, the sessions will delve into the ways age, socioeconomic background, and cultural influence shape purchasing habits. The sessions will also provide data-backed analyses comparing demographic segments and their approach to health-conscious shopping, wellness investments, and emerging product preferences.

“These sessions are a direct response to what our attendees have been asking for—real data-driven insights to shape their strategies, and we are excited to partner with leading experts to provide just that,” said Lauren M. Scott, President, The Foundation for Fresh Produce, in a recent press release. “Today’s consumers are more informed than ever about health and wellness, and our sessions will offer invaluable insights for produce marketers to identify actionable strategies that resonate with today’s health-conscious shopper.”

Some key sessions revealing industry insights include:

Tuesday, April 29

• Unlocking Consumer Trends: Shaping the Future of Produce Demand
  • Time: 9:20 - 10:05 am
  • Speaker: Lauren M. Scott, President, The Foundation for Fresh Produce
  • About: The unveiling of IFPA’s new research, providing a comprehensive analysis of how healthy aging, financial concerns, and demographic shifts influence produce consumption. Scott will provide attendees with insights into shifting consumer preferences and actionable strategies to stay ahead of these changes.
• Nudging Nutrition in Retail: Simple Tactics to Increase Produce Consumption
  • Time: 2:40 - 3:20 pm
  • Moderator: Annette Maggi, MS, RDN, LD, FAND, President, Annette Maggi & Associates, Inc.
  • Speakers:
    • Laura N. Brown, MS, RDN, LDN, Director of Nutrition, The Kroger Co.
    • Thu Huynh, MDA, RD, LDN, Nutritionist, Giant Food
    • Stacy Bates, RDE, CDE, Director of Nutrition & Wellness Strategy, H-E-B
  • About: Join Retail RD’s as they discuss how leading dietitians are using marketing strategies to "nudge” shoppers toward healthier food choices. They will share details and techniques on three key approaches: through leveraging retail data, personalized consultations, and omnichannel engagement.

Wednesday, April 30

• What’s Next in Consumer Health Trends?
  • Time: 8:50 - 9:50 am
  • Speaker: Sherry Frey, Vice President of Total Wellness, NielsenIQ
  • About: Frey will examine the factors driving changes in health-conscious shopping and product preferences, offering businesses key takeaways on how to align with evolving consumer needs.
• The Great Debate: In-House Creators vs. Creator Partners 
  • Time: 10:10 - 10:50 am
  • Moderator: Mary Heslep, Senior Vice President, Ten Acre Marketing
  • Speakers: To be announced
  • About: Two industry experts will consider the advantages and challenges of content created by independent influencers versus in-house corporate teams. The discussion will focus on creativity, audience trust, brand control, and return on investment.

Produce industry marketers will gain practical strategies for tailoring their communication approaches, leveraging omnichannel marketing, and addressing the specific concerns and motivations of diverse consumer segments. By understanding these insights, businesses can build stronger connections with their customers and drive sustainable growth in 2025, ultimately inspiring healthier eating habits by encouraging more people to eat fruits and vegetables.

For more information or to register, visit The Consumer Connection Conference site.