TAMPA, FL - If you caught our recap of the Southeast Produce Council’s (SEPC) 2024 Southern Exposure, or part 1 or part 2 of our yearbook, then you already know the event thrilled attendees with everything from a competitive golf classic to an electric show floor exploding with fresh produce innovation.

Still relishing the excitement and southern hospitality we experienced at the show, I connected with a few industry members to discuss their time in Tampa, Florida.

Sabrina Pokomandy, Key Account Manager, Highline Mushrooms

“It is always a pleasure to attend the SEPC’s Southern Exposure. The event, as always, was super well organized and continues to attract a high caliber of attendees. From industry leaders to retailers and key decision-makers, it offers so many valuable face-to-face conversations, making it a cornerstone event for our business growth.”

Mike Tipton, Vice President of Produce and Floral, Schnuck Markets

“Southern Exposure was energizing yet again! Throughout the event, we celebrated and appreciated the unsung heroes that grow, pack, transport, and merchandise fresh fruits and vegetables.

In addition, Kevin Brown gave a heartfelt inspiring message that resonated with the crowd, and FMI’s Power of Produce delivered actionable takeaways while inspiring us to try new things as we navigate the produce industry. The exposition floor included passionate produce experts collaborating and strengthening relationships while cultivating new ones—all of this will drive our industry forward.

Southern Exposure continues to deliver and exceed expectations. I look forward to the next event in September in Nashville, where we will find out what Southern Innovations has in store for the industry.”

Raina Nelson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Westfalia Fruit Marketing USA

"Southern Exposure exceeded expectations yet again with incredible educational content, inspiring speakers, and an unparalleled platform to drive business with industry partners. I loved the theme of Unseen Heroes, which honored all the people across the supply chain who make our industry possible. It was a spectacular experience!"

David Sherrod, President and Chief Executive Officer, Southeast Produce Council

“If I have only one word to describe the events during Southern Exposure 2024, it would be: powerful. There was an energy that was present from the beginning of the conference that lasted throughout the weekend, and I know it will carry us back to our homes and workplaces. We felt the power of the next generation of produce professionals as we celebrated our STARS, STEP-UPP, and NGLA classes on Thursday night.

That feeling carried over to our SEPC University Educational Sessions on Friday, with Kevin Brown giving us a hugely inspirational speech on how to unleash our inner hero, followed by the highly anticipated Power of Produce with the largest crowd we have ever had in attendance. We were blessed by both our Southern Roots and Good Seeds programs that followed on Friday.

The Opening Gala was attended by over 1,600 members and energized the crowd for Saturday's events. During the Keynote Brunch, Kurt Warner gave us all something to reflect upon in our own lives regarding perseverance and faith. All this and more lead up to one of the best networking expos we have ever seen. So many buyers and sellers were connecting and having intimate conversations for the entirety of the show. I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to all of our unseen heroes who make the Southeast Produce Council what it has become. Together We Grow Higher.”

This is an event we will all be reflecting on as we settle back down at our desks, in the stores, or in the fields. For more exclusive event coverage, leave a tab open to ANUK.