ANAHEIM, Calif. — On the final day of the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA)’s Global Produce and Floral Show, the organization recognized winners of its Expo Awards. More than 1,100 companies exhibited on the show floor with attendees from more than 50 countries represented.
“The Global Show brought out the best in worldwide fresh fruit, vegetable and flower innovations this year,” says Cathy Burns, IFPA CEO. “United by our bold beliefs and relentless advocacy, we are driving innovation, efficiency and positive change for our members and industry. Together, we are building a brighter, healthier future, proving that our products matter to the world. This year’s show was an incredible three days of connections, insights and community.”
The winners include:
- Best First-Time Exhibitor: Plant Grow Harvest
- Best Island Booth in Business Solutions: IFCO Systems
- Best Inline Booth in Business Solutions: 48Forty
- Best Island Booth in Produce: Fowler Packing | Peelz Citrus
- Best Inline Booth in Produce: BrightFresh Micro Greens
- Best Island Booth in Complementary Items: Offshoot Brands
- Best Inline Booth in Complementary Items: Joolies Superfruit
- Best Island Booth in Floral: Del Alma
- Best Inline Booth in Floral: Kendall Farms
From the Fresh Ideas Showcase Participants:
- Best Sustainable Packaging: Dutchess Bouquets - IntegraVASE
- Best Product Promo: Dole - Colada Royale
Amanda Sains-Harris, vice president of marketing for Joolies, says she’s excited to see the creativity that booths have year in and year out.
“The Date-ing Booth has become a Joolies signature at shows, but for IFPA we wanted to take it to the next level: bright, bold and bursting with nostalgia,” Sains-Harris says. “Inspired by a classic kissing booth and the retro ‘Dating Game,’ our rainbow arch set the stage for something playful and full of heart. The booth embodied everything Joolies stands for: fun, vibrant and full of good energy, standing up and out from the pack. Just like eating our dates and date snacks, we wanted people to walk away feeling happy, energized and smiling.”
Shelby Rodich, senior marketing manager with BrightFresh Microgreens, says the company was excited for the recognition, noting that the company has worked over the last 18 months to communicate what sets its products apart in the leafy greens category.
“We showcased our products and people at the forefront, using the booth’s backdrop to illustrate the vibrant environment and bright culture that define our work,” she says. “The BrightFresh team combines experience with youthful energy — honoring traditional outdoor growing methods while embracing innovative marketing strategies that connect with today’s evolving consumers.”
Natasha Lichty, brand and marketing director for Offshoots Brands, says the team at Offshoots Brands had fun creating the tattoo parlor theme of its booth and are excited to take home the win.
“As a company driven to show that fruits and veggies can be fun and bold, we were thrilled to bring that spirit to life with our Offshoot Tattoo Parlor,” she says. “We’re so grateful to everyone who stopped by to connect with us — and especially those who left with a lasting mark (wink, wink). We hope you’re all still loving your tattoos as much as we loved creating the experience.”
