MONTEREY, CA - Organics have become a beacon in the fresh produce department. Or maybe I should say more fittingly, in recent years their light has become even brighter, drawing in today’s consumers with vision, branding, and innovative growing and sustainability practices. As we flip our calendars to July, the Organic Produce Summit readies for a mass of the industry’s best and brightest as they gather on California’s Central Coast for two days of tours, networking, ingenuity, and relationship-building.

With the July 13–14 event quickly approaching, I checked in with some of those industry trailblazers to see where their sights are set and what is already piquing their interest!

Vic Savanello, Regional Vice President Produce and Floral, SpartanNash

“This show, while focusing on organic, brings so many folks from the produce industry into the salad bowl of our country in California. It connects more actual growers to retailers than probably any other regional trade show nationally.”

Tony Mitchell, Vice President of Corporate Produce and Floral, Associated Wholesale Grocers

“I am looking forward to attending the OPS conference in July to connect with industry friends, and suppliers and learn about new and innovative items in the organic arena. For us at AWG, organics is one of our initiatives, so we are always looking for items that can help our membership grow their business. Organics are a great way to shout freshness and quality and complement the produce department. I look forward to seeing everyone there!”

Jeff Cady, Vice President of Produce and Floral, Tops Friendly Markets

“This will be my first OPS, and I am excited to go to a show that offers me a chance to focus in on a segment that is still growing, but as times goes by, will need more attention to continue moving in that direction. Networking and brainstorming with fellow industry leaders are always a highlight of any show, but being able to focus in on organics should yield some great, innovative ideas and results.”

Daniel Bell, Senior Produce Buyer, Grocery Outlet

“For us at Grocery Outlet, we always look forward to and support the Organic Produce Summit and bring as much of our team as possible to attend. It’s a well-run show with well-thought-out and informative breakout sessions. It’s also a great place to touch base with old friends and partners and see what’s new in the organic world, and hopefully come away with some new items and relationships. We always try and schedule a couple of supplier visits before the show while we’re there and really make the most of the whole experience.”

Jeff Fairchild, Produce Director, New Seasons Market

“With OPS right around the corner, I am looking forward to reconnecting with old friends while also looking for new growers and shippers to bring to New Seasons. OPS is always a quick way to see what is going on in the organic industry.”

Want to read what more of our retail friends had to say? Give a look here, and we will see you all soon in Monterey!