GRAPEVINE, TX - While my Texas travel itinerary does not kick off for another week, my bags are already half-packed and one foot nearly out the door. What could spark such excitement and anticipation for me? Viva Fresh, of course!

Slated for April 21–24 at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, the regional trade show highlights the importance of the Lower Rio Grande Valley as an emerging trade corridor and production zone, becoming one of the top events on the AndNowUKnow calendar. And, the extravaganza is not just the apple of our eye this spring, it is also for those trailblazing industry members that I really wish to spotlight in the lead-up to Viva. So, check out a few words from those voices themselves…

Hector Garza, Director of Industry Relations, Texas International Produce Association

“I am blown away by the number of emails, phone calls, and nonstop inquiries about Viva Fresh this year. Texas is blessed to have the lion’s share of all the fresh fruits and vegetables coming from Mexico, and the unique geographical area to grow locally as well. If you work in the fresh produce industry, Viva Fresh is the place to be at!”

Matt Mandel, Vice President of Finance and Legal, SunFed

“It’s that time of year again where all bets are off, and we celebrate everything being bigger in Texas! Viva Fresh is such a great show because it features the top growers and top retailers in a low-key, low-pressure environment that feels more like a gathering than a trade show. SunFed loves the experience, and I hope to see you all in Dallas!”

April Flowers, Marketing Director, Lone Star Citrus

“I’m really looking forward to this year’s Viva Fresh. It will be so nice to do face-to-face business again and catch up with friends, customers, and vendors. I’m definitely most excited about the In Bloom event, Speak Easy: Real Women, Real Talk, where we’ll be featuring three successful produce women and discussing the issues and topics women frequently encounter in the workplace.”

Tommy Wilkins, Director of Sales and Business Development, Grow Farms Texas

“Viva Fresh brings together the best in our industry, fostering a space of innovation that was created by a group of leaders who huddled with a vision some eight or nine years ago. I could never imagine what has come out of that meeting. Post-COVID, we have experienced overwhelming support, selling out nearly four blocks of hotel rooms and bringing in incredible retail and foodservice attendance. The In Bloom Event will be a great showcase to attend, focusing on helping women in our industry grow and connect. I am also looking forward to the Y-TIPA Networking Group, which invests in the evolution of our next generation. And the one closest to my heart is the Clean Eating conversation. I am humbled to be a part of a group that has taken Viva Fresh to all the levels we are seeing it reach today. So, a big welcome to our friends. We are excited to extend our Texas hospitality and good food and spirits your way, and I cannot wait to see everyone there!”

Jaime García, General Manager, Kingdom Fresh

“The value that Viva Fresh provides is unmatched. The opportunities that occur within the expo for all the people who attend are of the best level in our industry. The relationships that are formed within this event are the roots for many years of business. The best show of the year, as always.”

Looking forward to seeing all of you folks in Texas! It’s sure to be an event for the ages.

Viva Fresh Expo