MCALLEN, TX - Thriving in the fresh produce industry takes resilience, innovation, and a willingness to come to the table—not just to participate, but to help raise the bar for everyone at it. It’s at this intersection that Fox Packaging and Fox Solutions operate, helping others find their footing.

As we break into May, just coming off the energy and collaboration of a successful Viva Fresh, Victoria Lopez, Marketing and Business Development Manager, joined me to reflect on the recent expo, its continued value, and what Fox brought and continues to bring to the table.

With Viva Fresh Expo 2026 fresh in the rearview but still on everyone’s minds, what is the bigger story your company was able to share with attendees on the show floor about Fox this year?

Victoria Lopez: "This year, our message centered around the idea that not everything in packaging is black and white. The industry is navigating complex topics like PCR, EPR, and material sustainability, and while those acronyms are widely used, they do not always translate into clear, practical decisions at the packhouse level.

We focused on shifting the conversation. Rather than staying at a high level, we spent time with customers talking through how these concepts apply in real-world operations.

At Fox, we believe that acronyms do not solve circularity—conversations do—and that mindset guided how we engaged throughout the show."

What made this year’s Viva Fresh Expo a particularly meaningful or timely opportunity for connection and collaboration?

VL: "This year felt especially meaningful because the industry is balancing multiple priorities at once, including sustainability expectations, operational efficiency, and cost pressures. There is a real need for clarity and practical solutions.

Viva Fresh continues to stand out because of its ability to bring people together in a more personal and focused way. We were able to have honest, productive conversations with both longtime partners and new connections, which made the show feel especially impactful."

Which products, innovations, or programs were you most excited to showcase, and how did they reflect where your company—and the industry—are headed?

VL: "We showcased the packaging solutions that have supported the fresh produce industry for over 60 years, built on reliability, performance, and real-world application. Alongside those proven products, we introduced targeted material advancements, including options with 30 percent PCR content, laminated films, and pouch bags with reinforced handles. These offerings reflect where the industry is headed, with a continued focus on balancing sustainability goals with performance and usability.

We also highlighted our work through Fox Solutions, emphasizing automation compatibility and the importance of ensuring that new materials integrate seamlessly into existing packing operations. This combination of trusted products and thoughtful innovation reflects how we are supporting practical progress across the supply chain."

Who from your team attended Viva Fresh Expo, and what perspectives or expertise did they bring to the show this year?

VL: "Our team included members from sales, business development, and operations across both Fox Packaging and Fox Solutions. This allowed us to bring a well-rounded perspective to each conversation, from packaging materials and performance to equipment integration and line efficiency.

Having both packaging and automation expertise on the show floor made a meaningful difference. It allowed us to engage in more in-depth, solution-oriented discussions and better understand how we can support our customers across the full scope of their needs."

Why is it important to work with a Texas-based partner in today’s produce and packaging environment?

VL: "Being based in Texas allows us to stay closely connected to our customers and respond quickly to their needs.

Because we manufacture domestically, we are more agile in managing lead times, controlling costs, and adapting to program changes as they happen. It also gives us the ability to collaborate more directly. Our in-house design team works closely with customers to develop packaging concepts, refining artwork and structure until it aligns exactly with their vision and operational requirements.

That combination of proximity, flexibility, and hands-on support allows us to be more than a supplier. It positions us as a true partner in helping our customers meet both their immediate needs and long-term goals."

As the industry continues to navigate complexity, Fox Packaging is focused on turning conversation into clarity—and solutions into real-world results.