ORLANDO, FL - As March begins, our friends and colleagues industry-wide are preparing for another gathering of like minds and top innovators at the upcoming Southern Exposure conference and trade show. With the annual occurrence slated for March 9-11 this year, what new treats are in store from the Southeast Produce Council (SEPC)?

"We are thrilled to be adding a third educational seminar to Southern Exposure as a part of our continuing effort to increase member value this year. We are providing our attendees with more options and programs tailored to their segment within the industry, and strive to give all attendees an educational takeaway from the conference,” stated SEPC Executive Director David Sherrod.

At the top of the docket this year, comes three workshops for attendees to glean new facets of information and inspiration from. While the event has offered workshops before, this year’s increased number is sure to provide important and relevant information on today’s industry trends.

Starting on Friday, March 10 at 8:00 a.m. and running through 12:00 p.m., Southern Exposure attendees can participating in the following educational opportunities:

• Fresh From the Farm Field Tours: Virtual tours of SEPC member companies that invokes the days of getting on buses for tours, but easier! This year’s field trips will be to Red Sun Farms, National Mango Board, L&M Companies, and Southern Valley, with representatives on hand to answer questions.
• The Commissioners’ Corner: An all-new workshop that focuses on the state of produce and the economic impact of our industry in Southeast states. Will host state agriculture commissioners from Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.  
• Workshop Speaker: Author and James Beard winner David Sax will provide the what, why and how behind food trends, and give insights behind his understandings as someone who has examined such affairs under a microscope.

These workshops will help industry members understand issues facing business at large, challenges that are a priority for SEPC year-round. With the diverse workshop lineup planned, SEPC is looking to grant all attendees resources and information that they can use not only to better their companies, but the whole industry. 

In this vein, SEPC has tapped Sportswoman and Leadership Consultant Alison Levine to head the Southern Roots luncheon and impart upon industry women how finding strength in each other is the key to success. Alison’s inspirational experiences have provided her with both physical and mental strength to learn from. 

“We are looking forward to hearing Alison’s story of overcoming some very tough obstacles in her life,” stated Teri Miller, SEPC Board of Directors President, and Founder of Southern Roots. “Southern Roots was created to help women in the industry support each other and find more strength within themselves both professionally and personally. Alison’s life experiences will provide a foundation for us to open up our own conversations to help each other more.” 

SEPC has also secured Willie Robertson, CEO of Duck Commander, the parent company behind Duck Dynasty, to lead Southern Exposure’s keynote luncheon on Saturday before the expo. SEPC is promising that Willie will provide a new tone to the annual luncheon with his comedic demeanor and entrepreneurial mind, but also provide a look into the keys to success, which at the core are faith, love, and family. Willie’s experiences in creating a successful business model will be beneficial to all who hear him. 

As the industry preps to swarm into Orlando, Florida, next week, make sure to register now at seproducecouncil.com for your own chance to glean new understandings and connections from industry peers at the Dolphin Resort at Walt Disney World.

Follow the event and join the conversation online by using the hashtag #SouthernExpo, and see you there!

Southeast Produce Council