J&C Tropicals been attending the Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Exposure show for more than a decade, and each year, it continues to be a key event for the company.

“This year, we’re excited to reconnect with long-time partners and forge new relationships within the produce industry,” said Denise Gomez, marketing manager of the Doral, FL-based company. “Our primary goals are to discover new market trends, explore fresh opportunities for growth and stay informed on the latest innovations in the industry.”

Additionally, the J&C Tropicals team is thrilled to feature its newest product, NamZen Coconuts, in the Bright Ideas Showcase.

“These coconuts, sourced from Thailand, are incredibly convenient and eco-friendly, coming with their own straw for easy drinking,” Gomez said.

J&C Tropicals will be at booth No. 803 in the Gold Aisle and visitors can expect to enjoy delicious recipes prepared by the company’s executive chef, Luis del Hoyo, featuring a diverse selection of tropical fruits and roots.

“Be sure to check out our 8-tray merchandiser, which is the perfect tool for retailers looking to build a focused tropical department with a wide variety of options,” Gomez said. “Our booth will offer an engaging, interactive experience, with opportunities to taste and learn more about our products, all while showcasing the innovation and quality that sets us apart.”

Since the show is held in its home state, the company will be sending a diverse and experienced team to SEPC this year, including CEO Jessie Capote, vice president of sales Adrian Capote, and Christian Hosford, vice president of marketing and brand creative director.

“We Tropic Like It’s Hot, so be sure to come by for tropical education, nutrition and a culinary experience,” Gomez said. “Our strategy is ‘Tropic Edu-tainment,’ which means we’ll be educating with entertainment techniques for a memorable experience. Ultimately, our goal is to have a cohesive approach where all team members are aligned on key objectives, ensuring we make the most out of this important event.”

For J&C Tropicals, SEPC is an invaluable experience for building relationships, discovering new opportunities and staying on top of market trends while talking with people throughout the event.

“As always, we’re excited to attend the golf tournament and welcome reception, which offer the perfect settings to reconnect with our partners,” Gomez said. “These events provide a relaxed environment where we can engage in meaningful one-on-one conversations, strengthening relationships and discussing business in a more personal way. Networking is a crucial part of our strategy at SEPC, as it helps us build and maintain valuable connections that contribute to the ongoing growth of our business.”

In addition to networking, the team is also excited about the great lineup of speakers at SEPC this year.

“We’re looking forward to hearing their insights on the latest trends shaping the produce industry,” Gomez said. “We’re also eager to explore the Innovation Station to discover which new products have hit the market this year and stay ahead of emerging trends. Overall, we’re most interested in learning more about how new technologies and innovations are influencing product development and enhancing supply chain efficiency.”

She added the Power of Produce educational session is always a must-attend for those going to SEPC as it provides valuable insights into the latest trends in consumer purchasing and consumption, which are critical for staying ahead of market shifts.

“In our opinion, a successful show is one where we leave knowing we’ve achieved a solid return on investment and made meaningful connections with new potential customers,” Gomez said. “When we’ve had productive conversations, identified new opportunities and set the stage for future business growth, we consider it a winning day.”

Looking to the year ahead, J&C Tropicals is focused on expanding its reach to new customers nationwide.

“We’re committed to educating consumers about the many benefits of tropical fruits and vegetables, helping them discover new options they may not have explored before,” Gomez said. “By promoting the unique qualities and versatility of tropical produce, we aim to foster a greater appreciation for these items and drive demand in new markets.”