MONTEREY, CA - I love this time of year: warm California summers, long days, and the Organic Produce Summit (OPS). Slated for July 13–14, 2022, in Monterey, California, the annual event is dedicated exclusively to bringing together organic fresh produce growers, shippers, and processors with buying organizations from across the industry. For our team at AndNowUKnow, it is a great opportunity to tap into the trends and movements of the day, as well as the challenges and innovations that are driving the organic dynamic forward.

As we set our sights on the trade show next month, I caught up with some of our friends as the excitement builds around organic conversion and the arena’s possibilities. Here is what they had to say…

Chris Miller, Produce Director and Meat and Seafood Coordinator, MOM’s Organic Market

“As a retailer that sells 100 Percent Certified Organic Produce, the Organic Produce Summit is the most productive and all-around exciting show of the year for me. I am able to walk each aisle knowing that every booth will have a potential product for us to sell at MOM’s. It is always a fun time to connect with so many produce people that are passionate about organics, and on top of that, we get to do it in Monterey!”

John Savidan, Senior Director of Produce and Floral, Gelson’s Markets

“This year, I am really looking forward to seeing everyone from the organic segment in person. OPS is truly one of my favorite shows to attend, and I look forward to it every year. Organic itemization, and in particular high-quality organics, is a very strong part of our program and daily business. I use this particular venue to strengthen our long-standing relationships and to let growers know how important these relationships are for the future. When all is said and done, if I can come away with five to 10 new and innovative items coupled with networking, I would consider the experience a huge success. I love the farm tours and being able to see it all firsthand in the fields. Asking the questions you can’t always get answers to is very transformational. The educational sessions this year look great; it’s going to be a very informational show.”

Nicole Hulstein, Produce Category Manager, Food Lion

“I am incredibly excited about traveling to Monterey this July to attend my first Organic Produce Summit. I have heard wonderful feedback from previous attendees on the retail tour, and I’m excited to share in the opportunities the event provides. Some of the elements I am most looking forward to exploring are the controlled environment approach to growing fresh produce and how consumers are accepting of this practice as well as ‘The Future of Retail’ keynote—the topic is fascinating to me, and I’m excited to hear perspectives to get the juices flowing on possibilities for my business. Additionally, sustainability efforts are a conversation I am looking forward to, as this is a passion of mine and one that I know so many of us share as a necessity for our future. And what would a trade show be without an expo floor? I plan on spending time observing packaging and assortments and engaging with others on future possibilities—all aspects that give me a lot of energy.”

James Saldutti, Senior Director of Produce and Floral, Mother’s Market & Kitchen

“The OPS show is an event I look forward to each year as it opens opportunities to build new relationships while at the same time cultivating current relationships. The OPS event is ideal to learn about new product innovations and new programs, or to improve existing programs with long-time partners. Within our industry, innovation is not easy, but I am always amazed at how our partners on the grow- and supply-side continue to push the envelope, to delight customers at retail, and where those innovations come to life.”

Have OPS on your calendar yet? If not, check out this link for more info, and we will see everyone at the show!

Organic Produce Summit