SAVANNAH, GA - I cannot say enough about the opportunity to stand face-to-face and hug-to-hug with some of our industry friends last week as we talked shop, caught up on life, and celebrated the industry we are all deeply invested in elevating. The Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) Southern Innovations trade show wrapped this past weekend with the gracious hum and reinvigorating spark that such wonderful events can spur.

But, as you know, we love to bring other voices to the table to talk about such reflections as well, and so a few friends I have brought. Join me as they share their thoughts and words on SEPC’s Southern Innovations event.

Stephanie Hilton, Marketing and Business Development, Tom Lange Company

“It was great to see the resiliency of not only the produce industry, but also the connections and friendships that it fosters, on display at Southern Innovations.”

Tony Mitchell, Vice President of Corporate Produce, Associated Wholesale Grocers

“What a great event in Savannah, Georgia, this past week. Hats off to the SEPC team for gathering some amazing vendors and customers for this in-person event.”

Kim Andreason, Produce Program Coordinator, Jason's Deli

“Once again, SEPC delivers. The show has always been one of my favorite events. Though it was more of an intimate setting, the excitement of being in person was felt throughout the show. The produce industry has really faced some challenges the past couple of years and it was great to hear stories of the industry coming together.”

Nicole Hulstein, Produce Category Manager, Food Lion

“After much time conducting business and strategic conversations in a virtual setting, it was refreshing to engage with face-to-face interaction. The weather and community were both warm and inviting! Leading self and others with empathy was a welcomed theme in Southern Roots and the educational sessions—a great reminder of an ongoing need for a successful transition to what’s ahead.”

Dan Acevedo, Director of Business Development, GreenFruit Avocados

“It was good to see many of our customers and industry friends in Savannah. The southern hospitality and amazing evening weather allowed me the chance to reflect on the past year and reenergize for the remainder of 2021. SEPC’s Southern Innovations certainly sets the standard for industry events. From the educational sessions, expo, and golf to the tailgate party, SEPC provided the atmosphere that develops deep-rooted industry relationships. It was also an honor to attend Frank Swanson’s retirement party. Frank is one in a million and has touched so many folks in our industry.”

Kathleen Triou, President and Chief Executive Officer, Fresh Solutions Network

“SEPC scored again with another well-planned, well-executed trade show in gorgeous Savannah, Georgia. The trade show was well attended and well organized. The activities before, during, and after the trade show were thoughtful, entertaining, and gave plenty of opportunity to network. SEPC has a reputation for putting on the best trade shows of the year, and for very good reason. This year’s Innovations show did not disappoint.” 

Andy Garcia III, East Coast Sales Manager, Altar Produce LLC

"As a new exhibitor for the SEPC representing ALTAR PRODUCE LLC, it was an honor to attend a live event. The SEPC team always does a great job and I really value these times when we can all get together at an in-person event. We have all faced some challenges, yet I personally will never say no to meeting my peers in person. I have been around for over 30 years, so I always see old friends and many new people who continue to support our produce industry no matter what."

If you missed our recap of the event, please give it a gander and we will see you soon at the next industry extravaganza!

Southeast Produce Council