ORLANDO, FL - A welcoming platform for industry connection, exploration, and good ol’ Southern hospitality, Southern Exposure is a can’t-miss event that perfectly exemplifies the unique passion and dedication of the produce arena. As the 2026 event brought together influential leaders from across the industry in Orlando, Florida, this past weekend, the excitement and industry innovation felt during the educational sessions and exposition were palpable.

This year’s theme, “From Fields to Families: Nourishing Our Nation,” underscored the essential connection between agriculture, retail, and the families who depend on fresh produce providers, uniting members from the buy- to supply-side who are actively shaping the future of the produce industry each day.

“This week has been so inspiring and meaningful to me," shared David Sherrod, SEPC President and CEO, shortly after the show. "It reminded me that even in the troubled times we are living in, we all can be the salt and light of the world. Salt preserves and enhances all that it’s applied to, and that is what the SEPC does for the produce industry. Our theme this year, From Fields To Families, was evident throughout the week; Farmers are the backbone of what we do every day. Preserving them should be one of our highest priorities as an industry. Southern Exposure has become so much more than a produce conference. It is a unification of a portion of our industry who want to do better and be better, bringing light to the issues that matter most to our members.”

A total of 3,353 industry members—with 641 confirmed retail, foodservice, and wholesale buyer attendees—took to the Orlando World Center Marriott from February 26 through March 1 for a wide variety of events tailored to industry education and networking.

"Our theme, From Fields to Families: Nourishing our Nation, truly came to life from the very first session to the final day on the show floor," added SEPC Board Chair Sloan Lott. "The week was filled with great events from the Opening Tom Page Golf Tournament to Sunday’s Al Finch Memorial Prayer Breakfast. Both Ed Sessions were almost filled to capacity. We learned so much about what keeps our growers up at night, as well as some innovative advancements in the ag world that will help sustain a brighter future for the produce industry. The second session is always a crowd pleaser with the Power of Produce platform, and it did not disappoint again this year. Our Opening Gala Friday night was a big hit with country music star Chris Cagle. Saturday morning's Keynote Brunch kicked off by honoring Garry Bergstrom with the well-deserved Terry Vorhees Lifetime Achievement Award. We also gained so much knowledge from John Maxwell on how to become a better leader and a better human at the same time."

"The Southern Exposure show floor remained highly trafficked throughout the entire event," Sloan continued. "This was one of the most impactful shows I have personally attended, with Retail and Foodservice attendees actively engaged and optimistic about the future of produce."

Thursday kicked off with the anticipated Tom Page Golf Classic, followed by an insightful LINKS (Learning, Interacting and Networking with Key players in the Supply chain) session, and the Cool Cucumber Classic Pickleball Tournament, which welcomed attendees to a morning of friendly competition and fun-filled networking.

Friday placed education in the forefront with multiple educational sessions led by industry trailblazers. During the State of Agriculture session, Church Brothers Farms’ Steve Church, Frey Farms’ Sarah Frey, and WP Rawl’s Ashley Rawl joined moderator Robby Cruz, Vice President of Produce and Floral, Target, to discuss today’s most pressing agricultural challenges and opportunities.

The second educational session, The Power of Produce 2026, focused on data, consumer trends, and the evolving role of produce at retail. Moderator Rick Stein, FMI’s VP of Fresh Foods, was joined by insights guru Anne-Marie Roerink, President of 210 Analytics; Shanan Cox, Senior Director of Produce at Sam's Club; Andy Hamilton, CEO of Markon Cooperative; and Chris Keetch, Director of Produce and Floral for The GIANT Company to examine how fresh foods are driving growth and connection across the industry.

Friday continued to spark inspiration and connection with the Good Seeds MENtor Program, joined by New York Times bestselling author, global speaker, and coach Stephen Mansfield, and the Southern Roots Women's Luncheon, where Molly Yeh—Chef, Cookbook Author, and Host of Food Network’s Girl Meets Farm—shared exclusive insights with the women of produce. A Hee Haw-themed Opening Gala provided the perfect close to the night, bringing the fun through music, great food, and even an adorable little petting zoo.

On Saturday, we gathered for the Keynote Brunch, where Gary Bergstrom was presented with the Terry Vorhees Lifetime Achievement Award and spoke to the importance of symbiotic relationships, resilience, faith, and hope. Afterward, world-renowned leadership author, speaker, and coach John Maxwell took the stage, inspiring attendees to grow and evolve as leaders within their organizations and communities.

The remainder of the day was spent on a bustling show floor, excitedly exploring the latest products and innovations at the Exposition, Bright Ideas Fresh Arrivals showcase, and Innovation Station kiosks. On Sunday morning, the multi-day event closed out with the Al Finch Memorial Prayer Breakfast.

As always, there is nothing like taking a break from our busy schedules to connect over industry growth, education, and a shared passion for fresh produce.

Hear more reflections on the 2026 event from some of the leaders we bumped into on the show floor:

Mike Tipton, Vice President of Produce and Floral, Schnuck Markets

"Southern Exposure consistently delivers an invaluable platform for connecting the entire produce supply chain, from field to family. The focused educational sessions, including ‘The Power of Produce,’ drive learning and innovation while exploring the robust exposition floor helps strengthen the relationships that move our industry forward."

Peppe Bonfiglio, Vice President of Sales, Mastronardi Produce®

“Southern Exposure is an important opportunity for us to connect directly with retail and industry partners and share what’s new at SUNSET®. We always look forward to having meaningful conversations around category growth, innovation, and evolving shopper needs. This year, we highlighted the launch of our new Pop Its™ bite-sized cucumbers, which is a product a lot of people have been looking forward to. SEPC continues to create a valuable environment for building relationships and moving the produce industry forward. We're looking forward to seeing everyone there."

Tim Youmans, Vice President of Sales, California Giant Berry Farms

“We are more than just a supplier; we are a strategic partner invested in our customers’ success. Whether it’s the juicy, delicious flavor of our berries or the functional innovation of Belli Berries, our goal is to provide retail and foodservice partners alike with products that inspire menus and drive category growth. SEPC offers a concentrated and productive environment to network with key players. We were excited to demonstrate how our commitment to innovation—first sparked in Anaheim—is now ready to hit professional kitchens, retail shelves, and kitchen tables.”

Kristin Yerecic Scott, Executive Vice President of Customer Experience and Administration, Yerecic Label, and Board Member, Southeast Produce Council

“SEPC’s Southern Exposure continues to stand out for its energy and authenticity. John Maxwell’s keynote was a powerful reminder that true leadership is rooted in serving others; leading with intention and investing in people. What makes this event so special is the warm, welcoming atmosphere that encourages meaningful connections and strengthens partnerships across our industry.”

Cheryl Hoefs, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Lipman Family Farms

“Southern Exposure is not just another trade show. It feels more like a community gathering for Lipman and the greater produce industry. As a Southeast-based company, we always look forward to welcoming partners and customers in a setting that’s close to home. The setting encourages real conversation and connection.”

Bobby Creel, Director of Business Development, L&M Companies

"This was my 26^th time attending SEPC Southern Exposure, and this was the best. The quality of the retail and foodservice attendees, the superb educational sessions, and the overall networking opportunities were truly outstanding. This SEPC event has matured over time into THE most robust produce industry event anywhere.

I am so proud of the students from the Next Generation Leadership classes and the Step-Up and Stars students, and what they have all accomplished from an educational and personal development perspective. The keynote speaker, my friend John Maxwell, was awesome, and Garry Bergstrom (retired from Publix) receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award were two additional highlights for me."

Brianna Shales, Marketing Director, Stemilt

“What an energizing show SEPC put on in Orlando! The theme of farming and families perfectly captured the heart of the produce business, and WOW, did the industry ever show up for this event! The aisles were packed! Our Stemilt team was grateful for the opportunity to talk with retailers about apples, pears, and the fast-approaching cherry season. We are already looking forward to next year!”

Raina Nelson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Westfalia Fruit North America

"Southern Exposure truly brought the From Fields to Families theme to life in the most powerful way. The educational sessions, along with the ever-popular Power of Produce report, delivered meaningful insights and fresh perspective for our industry. John Maxwell inspired the room with a keynote that challenged us to lead with consistency and intention, while countless moments reminded us why we do what we do.

Purpose. Passion. Produce. People. That is the heart of the Southeast Produce Council."

Brian Dey, Retail and Merchandising Innovation Manager, Four Seasons Produce

"SEPC Southern Exposure 2026 was action-packed and exceptionally well attended. It was another great opportunity to visit with current vendors and suppliers and network to meet new ones that are sure to develop into new opportunities. The educational sessions were great and informative as well. Thank you to the SEPC for putting together another amazing show!"