MILLEN, GA - With most events being switched over to a virtual format throughout 2020, the Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) is taking the first tentative steps toward regaining the connection that our industry thrives on, with its Southern Exposure event being held April 6­–8 in Orlando, Florida. As the second in-person produce event of the year, the association is ensuring the health and safety of all of those in attendance and has partnered with experts and organizations to implement enhanced guidelines and keep the facility safe.

“The Southeast Produce Council is taking every precaution to ensure we have the safest of environments to conduct business in person. We have worked diligently with the Swan and Dolphin to ensure we meet and exceed all protocols issued by both the state and federal governments,” said Tim Graas of Associated Wholesale Grocers, SEPC Executive Board Secretary, and Conference Chairman. “Social distancing practices will be enforced. We are also working to provide onsite vaccinations as those supplies become more readily available. We have listened to our membership, and we know our industry is ready for us to meet. We intend to provide the safest conditions for us all to be together again.”

In partnership with AGS Expo Services, as well as Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, the SEPC has introduced several new safety guidelines that will be put in place in April.

Some of the new protocols include:

• Enhanced cleaning protocols: reinforced cleaning systems, and the increased frequency of cleaning and sanitizing in all public areas, especially for high-traffic spaces and high-touch surfaces
• Physical distancing protocols: modified floor plans, reduced seating capacities, queuing through signage and stanchions, one-way aisles in the exhibit halls
• Food safety protocols: appropriate PPE use for food handling, compliance with all Marriott and industry food safety protocols
• Provided PPE: provided personal protective equipment onsite–masks, face shields, hand sanitizer, and exhibitor sanitization supplies

To see the full list of updated practices, click here.

With the event right around the corner, the SEPC is encouraging members to register here. For those who are unable to attend due to travel restrictions, members can register as a virtual attendee to connect in real-time with onsite exhibitors.

As talks of in-person events continue to happen across the industry, AndNowUKnow will keep our ears to the newswire for the latest.

Southeast Produce Council