Attendees at the Southwest International Produce Expo will hear from industry leaders during the event’s educational sessions, which focus on key issues shaping the global fresh produce supply chain.

The SWIPE education program, scheduled for Friday, Jan. 23, will address topics such as preparing for black swan events, adopting new technologies and navigating trade disruptions. Sessions will feature leaders with firsthand experience managing change and planning for the future of fresh produce.

The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas SWIPE Committee developed panels that reflect multiple perspectives across the supply chain, with an emphasis on the buyer experience. Panelists represent major retailers, wholesalers and strategic leaders from companies including Wakefern Food Corp., Markon, Charlie’s Produce, H-E-B and Associated Wholesale Grocers.

Panels will be moderated by industry leaders, including Matt Mandel of SunFed Produce, Ron Lemaire of the Canadian Produce Marketing Association and Tony Mitchell of Indianapolis Fruit.

The education sessions include:

From 10 to 10:45 a.m., “Black Swan Event: Preparing for the Unpredictable,” a discussion on crisis management, planning and recovery, with strategies for insulating businesses from unexpected disruptions such as a global pandemic.

From 10:45 to 11:30 a.m., “AI in Grocery: Easing Shrink and Other Common Challenges,” moderated by Mitchell, will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming grocery operations and inventory management, including its role in reducing food waste, shrink and rising costs.

From 12:45 to 1:30 p.m., “Duties and Tariffs: How Retail Is Navigating the Impact of an Unstable Supply Chain,”moderated by Lemaire, will examine trade disruptions, cross-border complexity and strategies for maintaining customer loyalty amid supply chain volatility.

“SWIPE education sessions are designed to get beyond surface-level chatter,” said Lance Jungmeyer, president of the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas. “Our panelists have faced these challenges, solved real-world problems and done the work. It’s a fun and enlightening day for anyone connected to the fresh produce industry.”

SWIPE 2026 will be held Jan. 22–24 at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort and Spa. Educational sessions take place Friday, Jan. 23, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.