DONNA, TX - While the industry prepares to meet once more down in Orlando, Florida, at Southeast Produce Council’s (SEPC) Southern Exposure, I got in touch with Tommy Wilkins at Grow Farms Texas to get a sneak peek into what this Texan grower has in store. One showcase that I’m personally excited about: mangos.

“We are kicking off our mango season and looking to plan the next few months,” Tommy, the grower’s Director of Sales and Business Development, shares with me. “Both the round and yellow mangos are starting new crops, and we see a lot of opportunities in front of us.”

I can already smell the sweet scent of mangos in the produce aisle. And while I might be fantasizing, Grow Farms is ensuring that dream—one I feel most other consumers have—is coming to fruition for the retailer looking to fulfill it. Some of those opportunities include new and expanded growing regions—which I’m sure you’ll find more about at the show. These regions present new ways for Grow Farms to meet demands both for consumers and the buy-side.

“Grow Farms is always looking for ways to better provide solutions for our retail and foodservice partners,” explains Tommy. “This year, we’re looking forward to reconnecting face to face with an industry that has been grounded in many ways the past two years. SEPC’s Southern Exposure gives us the opportunity to get back into conversations and to take into account all the changes that have transpired over the past two years, both on our side and on our partners' side.”

At Southern Exposure, attendees will be met with educational panels, booths, and a host of much-needed networking galore. The show provides opportunities for industry members to learn new innovations and to discuss current changes. For Tommy and the Grow Farms gang, they can’t wait to soak up both the knowledge and excitement.

“As we come out of all the COVID-related implications, I’m interested in learning how we can re-engage with consumers and how to drive higher consumption of healthy fruits and vegetables,” Tommy says. “SEPC has a wonderful day of education on Friday, and the show always provides valuable insight into our ever-changing industry. I’m very excited to get back on the ground and to see everyone again face to face.”

A sentiment, I’m sure, that’s felt throughout the entire industry. As the excitement continues to build, ANUK will report on what’s to come.

Grow Farms Texas