Schedule of Events

Retail Council Meeting

INVITATION ONLY

Buyer Connect Exchange (by invitation only)

Golf Tournament Registration/Putting/Lunch

Golf Tournament Shotgun Start

Retail Conference Welcome Reception and Golf Awards

Breakfast

Welcome & Introduction

IFPA's Global Perspective

In this session, we'll present a comprehensive look at IFPA's vision, mission, fundamental principles, and objectives for 2024 concerning the retail sector and beyond.

Speaker

Anthony Barbieri
Vice President of Sales & Membership Engagement
International Fresh Produce Association

Networking Break/Visit Tabletop Exhibits

State of the Retail Market 2024

Join Joe Watson, Vice President of Retail, Foodservice & Wholesale at IFPA, as he provides insights into the 2024 retail market, exploring its positive aspects, challenges, and areas yet to be discovered. The session will shed light on the association's key focus areas for the year, which include consumption, supplier relationships, and nutrition.

Joe Watson
Vice President of Retail, Foodservice & Wholesale
International Fresh Produce Association

Driving Produce Consumption by Understanding the Consumer

High food prices, uneven economic growth? Join us for a discussion on the economic barriers - and opportunities - to address consumer demand for fresh produce. Join Jonna Parker from Circana and IFPA’s Mollie Van Lieu for a deep diver in understanding consumer behavior and their mindset to ensure success at retail. 

Speakers

Jonna Parker
Principal, Circana

Mollie Van Lieu
Vice President, Nutrition & Health
International Fresh Produce Association

Networking Break/Visit Tabletop Exhibits

Supplier Relations: What Do Relationships Look Like in This New Age?

This enlightening session will delve into the dynamics of supplier relationships in today's ever-evolving landscape, exploring how they are shaped and maintained amidst contemporary challenges and opportunities.

Moderator

Jim Smits
Vice President, Retail Advisory
Apeel Sciences

Panelist

Daniel Bell
Director of Produce
Grocery Outlet

Mike Downey
Director of Procurement
and Business Development
Military Produce Group

Bill Loupée
Chief Operating Officer
Ben B. Schwartz & Sons, Inc.

Special Announcement

Lunch & Networking

Navigating Retail in the AI Era

This concise discussion unveils the profound impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the industry. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the sector, this insightful panel will provide essential perspectives on leveraging AI for success in the evolving landscape of retail grocery. Seize the opportunity to stay abreast of industry trends and gain a nuanced understanding of how AI is shaping the future of our field. 

VP, AgFood Tech
International Fresh Produce Association

Panelist

Erin Logan
Vice President, Retail Strategy
Merkle

Robert Veilleux
Senior Director of Produce and Floral
Gelson's Supermarkets

Networking Break/Visit Tabletop Exhibits

New USDA Organic Regulations: What Does it Mean for You?

During this session we will explore the implications of the Strengthening Organic Enforcement Rule on retailers in the fresh produce sector. As consumer demand for organic products continues to surge, understanding the regulatory landscape is paramount for retailers to maintain compliance and consumer trust.

Moderator

Emily Musgrave
Organic Regulatory Manager
Driscoll's

Panelist

Mike Emery
Director of Produce Category,
Pricing and Merchandising
Hannaford Supermarkets

Sara Reed
Handler Certification Director
CCOF Certification Services, LLC

Wrap-up and Closing