MILLEN, GA - With in-person shows maintaining a high level of excitement across the industry, the Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) is teasing details of its upcoming Southern Exposure 2022. Recently, the association unveiled the panel of well-known retail names with will be part of SEPC’s University Education Session–Power of Produce 2022, at which The Food Industry Association's (FMI) Power of Produce report is slated to be released.

“The Power of Produce has become a feature educational session at Southern Exposure over the past few years. We are proud to have pioneered this report with FMI and 210 Analytics and it has become a proven and valuable tool; a tool that consistently delivers deep insights to market and consumer trends that can be applied to all segments of the industry,” said Raina Nelson, Chairman of the Board and President and Chief Executive Officer of Westfalia Fruit Marketing. “It is definitely a highlight for me, and I am very excited to hear from each of our retail panelists to gain their unique perspectives on the 2022 Power of Produce.”

This year’s panel will be moderated by FMI’s Vice President of Fresh Foods Rick Stein, and 210 Analytics’ Principal Anne-Marie Roerink. According to a press release, the session will feature the extensive expertise of key retailers as well.

Among the list of grocery names is Jerry Callahan, Albertsons Group Vice President of Produce and Floral. With over 40 years in the industry under his belt, Callahan leads business strategies at Albertsons, driving sales and profit objectives for 14 operating divisions and more than 2,250 stores. He also creates and communicates national strategic initiatives and coaches a passionate team of industry leaders.

Joining Callahan on the panel is Robby Cruz, Target Vice President of Produce Sourcing and Procurement. Like Callahan, Cruz is a veteran of the industry, serving over 28 years. He is now focused on driving innovation at Target, where produce plays a vital role in the growth of the company’s suite of Food and Beverage offerings.

Jim Hancock, Sam’s Club Produce and Floral Vice President/DMM rounds out the list of esteemed retailers, having worked at Sam’s Club for 26 years. During his tenure, Hancock has held a variety of leadership positions in merchandising, operations, planning, and replenishment. He has also played a key role in shaping the success of the retailer’s produce and floral programs and buying teams since 2014.

This impressive retail panel will take the stage on Friday, March 4, at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort in Orlando, Florida.

With spots still available, be sure to register for Southern Exposure 2022 to take part in this exciting event.

Southeast Produce Council