“It’s a great venue to connect not only with our existing retail and foodservice partners but also with new buyers who are looking to expand their regional programs or source from trusted growers,” said Robin Narron, marketing director and sales support at Nash Produce. “The networking opportunities — both on the expo floor and during the receptions and educational sessions — have been valuable for strengthening relationships and staying connected with industry trends.”

The Nashville, NC-based sweet potato distributor will be highlighting quality and consistency to visitors at its booth, No. 437 on the expo floor at the Jacob J. Javits Convention Center.

“Nash Produce will be showcasing our premium sweet potato program, highlighting our commitment to quality, consistency and year-round supply,” Narron said. “We’ll be featuring our refreshed packaging designs that emphasize sustainability and retail appeal, offering options that are both eye-catching and functional for today’s consumers.”

Other highlights Nash Produce plans to address include ongoing investments in curing, storage and packing technology to deliver the highest-quality sweet potatoes with improved efficiency, she said. Value-added and consumer-ready pack sizes that cater to retail and foodservice customers looking for convenience and versatility will be on display at the booth.

“Overall, our focus at the booth will be on innovation, reliability and the strong grower relationships that make Nash Produce a trusted partner in the sweet potato category,” Narron said.

Demand for North Carolina sweet potatoes has been strong heading into Thanksgiving, the major promotional window each year. Retailers are building holiday sets and consumer interest in sweet potatoes continues to trend upward due to the vegetable’s versatility, nutrition and value.

While sweet potatoes are typically a must-have for holiday meals with family, consumers are also purchasing more sweet potatoes throughout the year.

“We’re also seeing good movement beyond the holiday season, as sweet potatoes have become more of a year-round staple in many households,” Narron said. “With more consumers focusing on healthier eating and affordable produce options, demand has stayed steady even after the peak fall push.”

Following North Carolina’s lower sweet potato production due to storms last season, the supply chain is strong with a solid crop this year, with excellent quality.

“That’s allowing us to support our retail and foodservice partners with consistent product and strong promotional opportunities well into the new year,” Narron said.

On the expo floor and beyond, Nash Produce’s goal at the New York Produce Show is to strengthen relationships with current and potential customers.

“The show provides an ideal platform to connect directly with retailers, wholesalers and foodservice professionals who value quality and reliability in their sweet potato programs,” she said.

Through networking opportunities offered by the convention schedule, Nash Produce plans to continue building awareness of its capabilities as a leading North Carolina sweet potato distributor, Narron said, emphasizing a commitment to innovation, food safety and customer service.

“Ultimately, our goal is to leave the show with stronger partnerships and fresh ideas that will support continued growth for both our customers and our growers,” she said.

Nash Produce representatives will also focus on learning and collaboration.

“The educational sessions are a great opportunity to hear insights on consumer trends, sustainability initiatives and supply chain innovation — all of which help us stay ahead in meeting customer needs,” Narron said.

The show allows Nash Produce representatives to have meaningful one-on-one conversations to discuss program details, she said. By attracting key northeast retail, wholesale and foodservice distributors, the show is an opportunity to connect with customers Nash Produce might not see as frequently at larger industry events.

“The show gives us a strategic balance of high-quality engagement, access to decision-makers and an opportunity to strengthen our footprint in one of the most dynamic produce markets in the country,” Narron said.