The annual Organic Produce Summit (OPS) will be held in Monterey, California next week and is set to be the largest gathering in the event's history. Just over 200 organic fresh produce growers and shippers from across North America will be exhibiting in an expanded exhibit hall and more than 330 retailers and buyers have already confirmed attending, a number that's higher than usual. In addition, 1,700 attendees are expected to spend time at the Monterey Conference Center and participate in OPS' program.
"OPS 2025 is on track to become our most well-attended event in history, creating an unparalleled opportunity for all segments of the organic fresh produce industry to connect and collaborate under one roof," said Keigan Roos, Event Manager of OPS. "With retailer field tours, dynamic educational sessions, and an expanded exhibit hall, OPS 2025 will immerse participants in the strengths of the organic fresh produce sector while providing valuable insights into its future trajectory."
© Marieke Hemmes | HortiDaily.com
Secret sauce
What's the secret sauce to the success of OPS? "It's an intimate show that allows for ample direct networking time. In addition, attendees are attracted to the beautiful setting of Monterey. An added benefit is the close proximity to the salad bowl capital of the world where businesses of many exhibitors are located, allowing for retailer and buyer field tours to be held. Field tour attendees will get an exclusive look behind the curtains and a brief description of each tour can be found here. Finally, all-inclusive badges are provided for this compact event, allowing all attendees to attend the different events and maximize their networking opportunities.
The event kicks off with field tours on Wednesday, July 9, followed by an evening cocktail reception. On Thursday, educational sessions will take place in the morning before the trade show floor opens at 12:30 pm. Three sessions are highlighted here:
- Merchandising Magic will feature industry veterans with produce and leadership expertise, sharing best practices for operational excellence and creativity in merchandising. They'll explore with attendees how each part of the supply ecosystem facilitates excitement, and most importantly, merchandising magic at individual stores.
- Innovative Strategies to Engage Shoppers will explore changes in consumer behavior and the commitment to organics that younger shoppers consistently demonstrate through buy rate and basket size. Even as consumers demonstrate an overall tendency toward cost consciousness in 2025, new ways are being discovered to tap into social media and seasonal occasions to educate and excite shoppers.
- From Soil to Sale will explore the topic on everyone's mind right now: AI. Timothy Childs will explore new applications for technology that reduce food waste in the field, increase the nutritional density of organic produce, and manage costs.
However, there are many more educational sessions to choose from. Excited to attend this year's OPS event? Registration is still open through this link.
For more information:
Keigan Roos
Organic Produce Summit
keigan.roos@informa.com
www.organicproducesummit.com