FRESNO, CA - The fresh produce industry showed up in Fresno in full force yesterday, ready for the sixth annual installment of the Fresno Food Expo. AndNowUknow was on the floor as well, spotting new showcased products across every segment and meeting new friends along the way.

Showcasing the offerings of the Central Valley, the Expo boasted a fresh mix of 132 food growers, manufacturers, and processors to deepen their existing or budding relationships with the nearly 950 national and global-level retail, foodservice, and distribution buyers in attendance.

I spotted Paul Huckabay from Duda Farm Fresh Foods, who told me that the company was excited to attend in order to reach out to a new regional segment. "We find great value in supporting local shows," Paul told me from Duda's colorful citrus booth. "And connecting with new retailers on all levels." 

The floor kicked off with an opening statement from Fresno Mayor Ashley Swearengin, who heralded the show, amongst several cheers, as truly representing the Central Valley as one of the food capitols of the world.  

New varieties and well-honed classics overran the floor as the flavor profile of the region stood out amongst the booths. From several selections of innovative grape varieties, like that of AMC North America's, to The Lochinvar Company's packaging innovations for the pro-longed life of fresh produce, the Central Valley community gave buyers plenty of new considerations in addition to steady foundations for new and lasting relationships. 

"Fresno Food Expo is a great venue to feature our versatile product lines, which are our organic fresh and freeze dried produce," Cherie France, Marketing Manager at Homegrown Organic Farms, told me as we discussed the company's versatile offerings for the show and its expectations for the event. "We're looking forward to coming back next year!" 

Exhibitors from a majority of booths displayed their products, new and old, and told me they were keeping their heads turned toward strengthening local relationships with foodservice and retailers, while still looking to new ground for international distribution and export opportunities.

“The international buyers really love the fact that they get to meet the owners behind each company, as they don’t get that experience at other trade shows,” said Alicia Rios, Director, California Centers for International Trade Development, in a press release. “It helps them to better understand the processes behind their products and allows them to connect on a deeper level.”

Celebrity chef and author Simon Majumdar, could also be seen bobbing through the crowd, visiting booths to establish connections and experience regional taste; calling the Central Valley a "hidden gem" and a "chef's haven."

As the floor came to a close for an exhibitor break, and attendees geared up for the consumer-focused follow-up portion, Expolicious, retailers and growers mingled with the satisfaction of another successful event; AndNowUKnow included.

Make sure to stay tuned for our upcoming Fresno Food Expo Yearbook!