MONTEREY, CA - We in fresh produce have a lot to celebrate this time of year, and I’m not just talking about the holiday season. Industry members will rejoice come November 30–December 1, as the Organic Grower Summit (OGS) is coming to Monterey, California. This year’s keynote presentation, called Grower Roundtable: The State of Organic Growing, will no doubt have an impact on the future of the sector, and ANUK just had to know more.

“As growers continue to adjust to a new normal after the pandemic, the challenges and obstacles they face are wide-ranging,” relayed Dave Puglia, President and Chief Executive Officer of Western Growers and moderator of the keynote. “And while sales and consumption of organic fresh produce items continue to increase, a myriad of issues and regulations are front and center for these leaders and their companies. It is important we hear their viewpoints and perspectives as they relate to the future of organic production and growth of our industry.”

The event, put on by the Organic Produce Network and Western Growers, is an opportunity for industry members to come together with fellow operators—not as competitors, but as peers. The exchange of ideas at trade shows such as OGS is invaluable to our industry’s longevity, and the upcoming keynote presentation will be no different.

The Grower Roundtable: The State of Organic Growing session will include three prominent panelists: Brie Reiter Smith, Vice President of Product Leadership at Driscoll’s; Michael DuPuis, Quality Assurance and Public Relations Coordinator for Divine Flavor; and Tom Nunes V, President of The Nunes Company. From supply chain challenges to the increasing importance of technology, nothing will be off the table.

“OGS is a rapidly growing event and it’s great that we get to have these types of opportunities as an organic community to learn, share, and network about topics most critical to our industry,” Michael told me. “I’m thrilled to be joined by a group of professionals such as Dave, Brie, and Tom to discuss our unique perspectives as it relates to our sector of the industry, but also, to provide insight on Divine Flavor and Grupo Alta and our journey to producing organics sustainably for the past 30 years.”

Demand for organic fruits and vegetables is rising. In a sector that is still new territory for many, learning from each other is one of the most productive ways to ensure the health of the industry as a whole. Keep reading ANUK for more insights, and we will see you on the show floor.

Organic Grower Summit