ANAHEIM, CA - It was a busy start to May as the industry welcomed not just the sprint into Cinco de Mayo and Mother’s Day preparations, but also the gathering in Southern California for the Fresh Produce and Floral Council’s (FPFC) 2024 Expo.

Kicking off at the Anaheim Convention Center on May 1, just over 100 exhibitors from fresh produce, logistics, packaging solutions, floral, technology, and more met with an assortment of buyers, including Albertsons, Gelson’s Market, Grocery Outlet, and Vallarta Markets, to name a few.

Among the showcased individuals was Patrick Kelly, representing both Golden Star Citrus and The Produce Industry Podcast, which Patrick founded in 2020.

“I feel the show had a good presence from all aspects of the produce and supply chain community. There were two shows happening at the same time, so the industry had to send their best people to the respective conference this week!” Patrick shared. “I was excited to meet new people that I traditionally do not meet at other shows across the country. We had the corner booth on the first row and had great traffic the entire show. Golden Star Citrus and The Produce Industry Podcast shared a magnificent two booths with a ‘red carpet experience.’”

Joining together was a strategy supporting both companies on the dynamic show floor.

"Having a hybrid booth featuring The Produce Industry Podcast alongside Golden Star Citrus was truly an amazing experience—from the Citrocasa juicer, fresh oranges, and merchandise to a red carpet experience. It was an honor to support my friend and colleague, Patrick Kelly, whose insightful session on bridging the generational gap and embracing your awesome left us all feeling proud and inspired,” Michael Chavez, Director of Golden Star Citrus, said.

As stated, Patrick was not just an exhibitor on the FPFC show floor. One of the highlights for both him and attendees was his leading a discussion with panelists Bryan Presley of Albertsons, Javier Bautista of Northgate Markets, and Andy Hamilton of Markon Cooperative. The speakers shared how they wake up and start their days, their feelings and observations about the work, and their thoughts on encouraging others through a positive mindset.

“Let's not forget, too, the generational gap, including new research on upcoming generations. These topics are more important than ever in our industry,” Patrick said. “As we grow together we truly need to know that we are all humans working in this industry together! Being a speaker is truly amazing at any event, but this one was really special to me as I have changed parts of my engagements to include how to embrace ‘you’re awesome,’ self-love, positive thinking, purposeful discussions in a digital world, and how to stay ugly.”

In addition to the buyer panel, Chef Jeff Henderson, an award-winning celebrity chef and best-selling author from South Central Los Angeles, inspired the industry with insights, passion, and his culinary journey. And among the educational offerings was an employment law segment from June Monroe of of Fennemore Law Patrick himself said was particularly insightful.

“I love that we are educating our industry on items that are true at hand, day in and day out. It was great to see the progression of these subjects at the show,” he reflected. “Overall, I was extremely happy with the outcome. I believe we gave members of the FPFC show a true experience with the red carpet. It significantly enhanced the event’s atmosphere, making attendees feel special and valued. We gave them a sense of exclusivity and community, leaving a lasting, positive impression.”

Community, value, and positive impressions—the trifecta of a produce gathering done right. Thank you to the Fresh Produce and Floral Council for working to do just that!