Industry Voices Speak to Attending Southeast Produce Council's Southern Innovations
SAVANNAH, GA - We are mere weeks away from the Southeast Produce Council’s (SEPC) Southern Innovations, and I can hardly wait to experience the engaging, homey atmosphere this event always offers set to the backdrop of Savannah, Georgia. But don’t just take my word for it. Here are some wise words from all around the industry on why this is a not-to-be-missed event!
Mike Roberts, Director of Produce Operations, Harps Food Stores
“The one show we do not miss. The SEPC puts on a great few days of educational information, a great expo, and most importantly, the family-type atmosphere. We accomplish more at SEPC events than we do in all other industry events combined!”
Harold Paivarinta, Senior Director of Sales and Business Development, Red Sun Farms
“Southern Innovations has morphed over the past few years into more of a show of insights and discovery. Whether it’s a new item you are introducing or innovation your organization is employing that will separate you from your competitors, Southern Innovations is the place to have intimate conversations regarding what’s new. Many retailers have set sustainability goals regarding pesticides, water consumption, recyclability, and best practices, so we’ve decided to include our LINKS program into the agenda in Savannah. LINKS meetings are being scheduled on a one-on-one basis between retailers and grower/shippers to perform deep dives into those initiatives and specific ways in which the supply-side can collaborate with retailers to meet or exceed them ahead of schedule. Southern Innovations is truly a platform to engage with your partners with a laser focus on the future. Red Sun Farms team members can’t wait to see everyone in Savannah.”
Teri Miller, Senior Category Manager, The Fresh Market
“Attending SEPC’s Southern Innovations is like attending a family reunion. The SEPC does a wonderful job of creating an environment where everyone from all areas of produce can come together and share with one another. It’s an environment where all enjoy the opportunity to connect with one another and talk about new items, packaging, current business, the impact of COVID-19, and possible opportunities. I feel at home at SEPC’s events, and I believe that many others feel the same way. For those who don’t, come talk to me!”
Brian Cook, Chief Executive Officer, Pete's
“Southern Innovations provides a platform for us to engage with our current and prospective retail and foodservice partners with new items and a strong concentration on the Southeast. This has become even more important as we build our new greenhouse in Georgia to provide them a locally grown option from Pete’s with the same high quality and consistency they’ve received from us over the last 50 years.”
Raina Nelson, President of USA Operations, Westfalia Fruit
“Southern Innovations in Savannah, Georgia, is the place to be if you’re seeking fresh ideas to drive business in this competitive marketplace. The Southeast Produce Council continues to develop this event to spotlight innovation. This year, we have organized the show to feature ‘What’s New’ in four main areas; the farm, the retail shelf, the menu, and the planet. Our goal is to deliver rich and relevant content in the current climate, like fresh takes on workforce recruitment and retention, emerging shopper and product trends, unique approaches to brand strategy, and a tradeshow that will showcase ‘What’s New.’ It is definitely a calendar-worthy event for all segments of the industry.”
It is not too late to register! In fact, you have to love those late-bird travel deals! Click here to register, and meet us in Savannah!
