In a year full of unexpected changes in how we do business with each other and with consumers, one of the themes I will discuss during this year’s State of the Industry at Fresh Summit will be where our greatest opportunities as a global community of fresh produce and floral marketers can be found.

For example, we have witnessed an incredible boom in grocery e-commerce growth. Retailers that invested in their e-commerce experience are reaping the benefits of consumers driven by convenience and safety concerns.

These are challenging times and reports reveal that consumers tend to be attracted to the tried and true, especially when it comes to the food they eat.

“Consumers are seeking familiarity and conveniences amid the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Tom Byrne, president of Monterey, CA-based Growers Express LLC. “Legacy brands tend to bring comfort to consumers in a time where they are feeling anxious.”

Duda Farm Fresh Foods Inc., based in Oviedo, FL, has six generations, and nearly 100 years of history behind its success.

Andrew Duda started the business on 40 acres of farmland and today, the company boasts a plethora of produce products featuring the Dandy brand.

The California Avocado Commission has supported the Produce Marketing Association for more than four decades. This year the commission continues that support as a platinum sponsor of the Fresh Summit online event. CAC Director Trade Affairs Angela Fraser is serving as co-chair of the Fresh Summit Committee. Fraser is a certified trade show marketer and has spearheaded the commission’s convention planning for 20 years.

The Center for Growing Talent has announced that the Women’s Catalyst Award given to recognize an individual who has made a significant impact supporting women in the industry will be renamed to honor the late Frieda Rapoport Caplan. The announcement was made during a live broadcast with CGT Executive Director Doug Bohr and Frieda’s Specialty Produce CEO Karen Caplan, Vice President & COO Jackie Caplan Wiggins and Alex Jackson Berkley, director of sales.

Embracing the virtual platform that this year’s PMA Fresh Summit offers, Shuman Farms will be showcasing its marketing initiatives and merchandising solutions to buyers.