WASHINGTON, DC - Another advantageous produce industry event is on the horizon as the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) prepares to host its annual Retail Conference in Phoenix, Arizona, on May 1–2. As the event nears, the organization has announced one micro-view advocacy-oriented session that will show produce marketers how to measure sales by Congressional district to inform internal decisions and communicate with legislators.

“From education sessions built for our industry's needs to productive networking, we’re providing plenty of opportunities to connect attendees with the people and ideas they need to help drive more fresh produce sales,” said IFPA Vice President of Retail, Foodservice, and Wholesale Joe Watson.

With Congress recently passing legislation that preserves the $1.2 billion cash-value fruit and vegetable benefit in the Women, Infants, and Children program due to the collaborative advocacy efforts of International Fresh Produce Association and its members, the power of the fresh produce industry’s voice in positively influencing an issue that impacts the retail and supplier communities has never been more relevant, the organization stated in a release.

In addition to this educational session, attendees of the event will also enjoy a day of buyer-seller networking.

“We’ll welcome dozens of retail buyers from these banners: Food Lion, Walmart, Albertsons, Bashas’, The Fresh Market, Meijer, Target, Sobeys, and Kwik Trip,” Watson said, noting that the conference has ample networking time during meals, breaks, receptions, and a golf tournament.

Show attendees will also gain insights into what’s new—such as new products, new organics rules, and business in the age of AI—as well as a macro view of IFPA’s global perspective and the state of retail in 2024. 

“Taking a business to the next level is not a solo sport. The retail supply chain counts on insights to inform strategic decisions as well as connections to drive sales,” said Watson. “Every year, we bring together the entire retail ecosystem for two days of learning, relationship building, and golf. This year is sure to be another one for the books. I encourage people to register early as the conference and golf tournament do sell out.” 

The Retail Conference immediately follows The Consumer Connection Conference from IFPA’s Foundation for Fresh Produce. Be sure not to miss this insightful event!