Riggio Distribution Co. ready for relationship building at Southern Exposure
Riggio Distribution Co. ready for relationship building at Southern Exposure
Riggio Distribution Co., based in the Detroit Produce Terminal, is a trusted full-service distributor and wholesaler of fresh produce, serving the entire Midwest. As an anchor tenant of the market, it provides comprehensive produce solutions from its central location.
A big part of the company’s success through the years has been in strong relationship building. That’s why going to the Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Exposure show is so important year after year.
“We enjoy going to SEPC to meet with current vendors as well as see 
incumbents and strengthen relationships,” said Phil Riggio, one of the owners of the family-run operation. “I will be attending alone. The beauty of the SEPC is that it is intimate enough to be handled by one person.”
While Riggio Distribution Co., won’t have a booth, Riggio is looking forward to making the most out of the show as possible as an attendee, and plans to stop by as many booths as he can to talk about what’s going on the industry.
“I feel the threat of tariffs between Mexico, the U.S. and Canada will be a hot topic,” Riggio said. “All three countries have great trade relationships and the organizations that do a great deal in importing/exporting will be discussing how to navigate such tariff challenges should they be implemented.”
In addition to meeting with people, Riggio is also interested in checking out the educational session with Bethany Hamilton.
“I would love to hear her story first-hand,” he said. “She is an inspirational figure and likely gives an unforgettable speech recalling her story and tenacity.”
Since the show’s size and format allows for numerous one-on-one opportunities with exhibitors and other attendees, Riggio noted attending is a must, which is why it’s one he goes to every year.
“You are able to get as much accomplished in the halls as at the booths,” he said. “These visits may seem small, but they are vital to your relationships in this business, and relationships are truly everything in the produce business. I have attended this show steadily for 12 years. It is a must-attend in the sense that it is easy to navigate, and the right people are there.”
Riggio has always said that if you come away with one thing from the show — a shipper, an item or a customer — then it was a winning show.
“However, even if you attend and just strengthen an existing relationship, that’s still a win,” he said.
Things at Riggio Distribution Co., have been solid the past few years and the company is coming off a strong 2024.
“Our growth over the past few years has come by being consistent,” Riggio said. “We are a 52-week supplier with many capabilities and our customer and vendor base have leaned on us heavily to provide. We expect the same from 2025 and are ready to meet new challenges.”
