What’s ahead at New England Produce Council’s Produce, Floral & Food Service Expo
What’s ahead at New England Produce Council’s Produce, Floral & Food Service Expo
The New England Produce Council’s Produce, Floral & Food Service Expo will be celebrating its silver anniversary as the show turns 25 this year. The annual event, a favorite among those in the produce industry, will be held at the Encore Boston Harbor for two days, Aug. 18-19, with a theme of being By the Sea.
“We get great support from all of the New England retailers,” said Laura Sullivan. executive director at New England Produce Council. “But we also have people from outside the area. We are not trying to be a national show on a larger scale; we are a regional show focused on this area. We are well attended, and this is a great group.”
Founded in 1995 by Cece Krumrine and Arthur O’Leary, the New England Produce Council is a nonprofit trade association representing more than 500 members across the entire produce industry — spanning distribution, production, foodservice and retail sectors. Additionally, NEPC is a proud member of the Produce Marketing Association, committed to advancing the industry and its stakeholders.
This premier industry event offers a unique opportunity for exhibitors and attendees to connect, explore innovative products and discover the latest trends in produce, floral and foodservice sectors. As always, the NEPC show also offers an ideal chance for retailers to come and see new products and hear about new services.
“This is a show we never miss,” said Bruce Klein, director of marketing for Maurice Auerbach Inc., explaining that it’s the perfect opportunity to network and see some of the customers it doesn’t get to see on a regular basis.
Things kick off on Monday evening with a VIP reception for sponsors and special guests in the Picasso Ballroom, followed by a lively cocktail reception on the South Lawn.
On Tuesday, attendees can start their day early with the Expo Breakfast and Produce Game Show, then will dive into a day of dynamic exhibits featuring more than 160 suppliers showcasing cutting-edge products and services. The event includes a dedicated lunch break and concludes at 4 p.m. that day.
Sullivan noted that Boston this time of year is always a great place to visit and often hears of people taking an extra day or two to explore and take in all the city has to offer.
That’s the plan of Kurt Zuhlke, owner of Kurt Zuhlke & Associates Inc., who will spend some time with his son, Christopher, who is also attending the show as a representative of the company. Zuhlke’s family will stay after for some Boston-styled fun.
For those in the industry, this is the ideal event to network, learn and stay ahead in the industry.
The show is a continuation of NEPC’s mission to foster a dynamic organization that embodies all aspects of the industry, creating value for members and sponsors through a platform dedicated to education and social engagement.
Its ultimate goal is to promote the increased consumption of safe, healthy fruits, vegetables and complementary products.
All remaining product at the close of the expo will be donated to the Greater Boston Food Bank.
