Schedule of Events
Retail Conference Emcee
We are thrilled to announce that Kevin Coupe, renowned author of Retail Rules! and owner of Morningnewsbeat.com, will be our Emcee for the day. As a leading retail expert, Kevin will guide us through a dynamic day of sessions and speakers, ensuring an engaging and insightful experience for all attendees.
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
Buyer Connect 1:1, Longhorn Room (By Invitation Only)
Golf Tournament Registration/Putting/Lunch
Golf Tournament Shotgun Start
Retail Conference Welcome Reception and Golf Awards, The Gardens
Thursday, May 1, 2025
Breakfast
Welcome & Introduction
State of Retail in Produce
Joe Watson and Emcee, Kevin Coupe, will discuss the current state of retail and its implications for the fresh produce industry. This session will explore key trends shaping the market, including evolving consumer purchasing habits and shifting supplier dynamics. Gain valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges retailers are currently facing, and learn how these factors are influencing the future of retail and produce.
Speaker
Joe Watson
Vice President of Retail, Foodservice & Wholesale
International Fresh Produce Association
Networking Break/Visit Tabletop Exhibits
100 Days In: How the New Administration is Impacting the Produce Industry
With the first 100 days of the new administration behind us, key policy shifts are beginning to impact the produce industry. Join industry leaders as they discuss how these changes have affected them and their businesses from an industry perspective. Gain insights into what retailers and suppliers can expect in the months ahead.
Moderator
Rebeckah Adcock
VP, U.S. Government Relations
International Fresh Produce Association
Panelist
Daniel Bell
Sr. Director of Produce
Grocery Outlet
Dante Galeazzi
President and CEO
Texas International Produce Association
Stefanie Katzman
CEO
Katzman
Networking Break/Visit tabletop exhibits
Unlocking Produce Growth
Leverage the power of Circana’s retail sales and consumer behavior data to uncover the key drivers of produce sales. After what has been a banner year for produce in 2024, this session will analyze the current U.S. retail and consumer landscape, highlight growth opportunities across fresh produce categories, and explore emerging trends in shopper preferences. Gain actionable insights into how to sustain momentum in a post-2024 market and identify strategies for continued growth and success in the produce department.
Speaker
Jonna Parker
Vice President/Team Lead
Circana - Fresh Foods Group
Special announcement
Lunch
Connect, Collaborate, Grow
Building on the morning’s discussions, this interactive session immerses participants in the evolving landscape of the produce industry. Through a dynamic team-based exercise, attendees will navigate real-world challenges, develop strategic solutions, and negotiate key decisions.