Testimonials: Cathy Gomez, Raina Nelson, and More Talk IFPA Foodservice Conference
MONTEREY, CA - Another successful year is officially in the books for the Foodservice Conference! The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) is basking in its success as a record high of nearly 2,000 registered attendees perused the show floor, presenting a host of opportunities to both the supply- and buy-sides.
As I linked up with some friendly industry faces on the show floor, we also had the chance to dig into what makes this show so beneficial for buyers and suppliers alike.
Cathy Gomez, Marketing Director, Markon Cooperative
“With the escalation of meat and seafood prices, the IFPA conference allows Markon to showcase the solution of fresh produce as the star of the plate, a popular shift that mitigates menu costs for both operators and consumers. The IFPA provides a unique stage for our farmer partners to share why Markon products give operators a competitive advantage. Whether they use our value-added Ready-Set-Serve line to address labor shortages or meet consumers' cravings for menu innovation—healthy, convenient Markon produce is key to accomplishing that.”
Raina Nelson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Westfalia Fruit Marketing USA
“We’re delighted with the opportunity to expand our foodservice business and share our avocado expertise at the conference this year! Avocados are the star of many signature dishes on menus today, and we’re happy to be able to offer a reliable, consistent supply of custom-ripened avocados so foodservice staff are well-equipped to deliver healthy avocados on plates across the United States.”
Marc Hatfield, National Sales Manager, Produce Pro Software
“Produce Pro Software was excited and energized to be back in Monterey for the Foodservice Conference. Being one of our go-to shows of the year, it consistently provides plenty of opportunity. With the power of IFPA behind it for the first time, this year did not disappoint. Plus, the Expo always serves as a great way to connect with many of our current customers and meet new faces in the foodservice space.”
Greg Heinz, Director of Sales and Commodity Management, Ippolito International
“We enjoy this show immensely. The Foodservice Conference is a unique opportunity to share Ippolito's operations and culture with customers. Many customers tell us that this is their first time being here, and they are thrilled to be getting out after the last couple of years. From our point of view, having customers actually visit the Salinas Valley and experience the climate and the surroundings—nothing better than that! And, of course, the schedule serves us well, too. It gives ample time pre-show to visit with customers in different settings in the fields, at our value-added facility, and at the Expo itself.”
Crystal Chavez, Marketing Coordinator, Gold Coast Packing
“The IFPA Foodservice show was great. We made great new connections and re-connected with customers, vendors, and industry friends. Our booth had great foot traffic from the very start of the show with lots of great questions about our new items and small packs for school foodservice and meal kits. This year’s show did not disappoint. Thank you IFPA!”
I couldn’t have summed it up better myself! To read more about this energizing trade show, be sure to check out our Recap here, and keep an eye out for our Foodservice Conference Yearbook!
