IFPA unveils full speaker lineup for Global Produce & Floral Show

A powerful lineup of keynote speakers at International Fresh Produce Association’s 2024 Global Produce & Floral Show promises to inspire and inform attendees. Get exclusive insights into the future of our industry, a non-partisan peek into political trends, entrepreneurship and the benefits of risk-taking, and the positive impact of women’s leadership on our world.

The Global Produce & Floral Show features three keynote addresses and two key conversations for attendees with All-Access Passes. New this year: The Women’s Fresh Perspectives Breakfast is included with the All-Access Pass.

"The keynote sessions at the Global Show are a signature component of the convention offerings. Learn what’s just a flash in the pan and what’s here to stay,” said Nelia Alamo, vice president of marketing for Markon and Global Show Committee chair. “It’s a time for members of our industry to gain new insights and find inspiration that will advance their careers, their companies, and our industry.”

The State of the Industry session Oct. 17 features Cathy Burns, IFPA CEO. This highly anticipated presentation will cover:

• The future of tech, innovation and the consumer, in the context of our industry
• The interconnectedness of issues and trends you won’t find anywhere else
• The insights that give you the edge to differentiate your business from the competition

Also on Oct. 17, the afternoon keynote features Marc Randolph, co-founder and first CEO of Netflix, on That Will Never Work: The Birth of Netflix and the Amazing Life of an Idea.

• Hear how a handful of dreamers with no money and a bad idea created the company that eventually brought down Blockbuster
• Understand the value of innovation, persistence and optimism
• Learn about the importance of analytics and testing, a novel corporate culture and an obsession with focus

Glean insights on retail and politics Oct. 18 at an enlightening two-act session, Key Conversations: Insights on Challenges, Opportunities and Change Ahead. Join two dynamic leaders as they explore the evolving landscape of the fresh produce industry:

• Act One features a dynamic conversation and valuable insights from Rodney McMullen, chairman and CEO of The Kroger Co.
• Act Two features a thoughtful discussion with A.B. Stoddard, columnist for The Bulwark and Contributor and guest host for Sirius XM's POTUS Channel, exploring how the election could impact policies, regulations and trade, among other issues.

And on Oct. 19 at The Women’s Fresh Perspectives Breakfast, attendees will hear from Reshma Saujami, a leading activist and founder of Girls Who Code and Moms First. She will speak on The Future of Women and Work (and Why It’s Different Than You Think) addressing: 

• Why “having it all” is a myth
• The burden placed on women to be primary caregivers and to work around a system built for and by men
• Four key steps for creating lasting change

"Only attendees with an all-access pass can attend these presentations. We are excited to include the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Breakfast and speaker in the All-Access Pass this year,” Alamo said. “I encourage everyone to maximize their Global Show experience by joining us at these sessions.”